YA Dystopian Fantasy: Shadowed Skies by Haley Cavanagh + excerpt

Shadowed Skies
by Haley Cavanagh
March 25, 2025
Genre: YA Dystopian Fantasy Romance | YA Science Fiction |
Publisher: Our Street Books
ISBN: 978-1803417721
ASIN: B0DV31JXS2
Number of pages: 208
Word Count: 60,000
Cover Artist: Lapiz Digital Services
Hunted for their blood. Fighting for their future.

In the shadowed aftermath of global destruction, humanity’s hope takes flight on the wings of the Evol-humans. River Shaw, secluded in his high-altitude sanctuary, seeks solace after a life scarred by loss. His quiet existence is disrupted when Delene Fairborne, fleeing captivity and a dark past, crashes into his world.

Together, they find strength in their unique abilities, resisting the sinister forces that hunt them for a cure only their blood can provide. As love blossoms amidst the chaos, they face a ruthless scientist hell-bent on harnessing their power. Shadowed Skies is a tale of survival, sacrifice, and soaring hope, where two souls, bound by destiny, fight for a world on the brink. Dive into a world where love flies against insurmountable odds.

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Excerpt:
I wake to a muscular, silent figure looming over me, his wings casting unnerving shadows. Intelligent dark eyes scrutinize me from his smooth, brown face framed by cropped black hair and raven quills. He’s been around the block.

My guard shoots up. I’d stand, but my body’s too weak from the climb. “Your nest, huh? Sorry, I didn’t see your name on it.”

“It’s carved right over there.” He points past me to the rockface. My eyes travel over the stone, where he’d etched River in craggy letters. The carved name is so tiny I didn’t notice.

“Now you’re supposed to tell me your name. That’s how this goes.”

I blink. “Delene Fairborne. Listen, would you mind if I–– ow,” I scrape against the wall and suck air through my teeth. I clamp my eyes shut.

“Are you okay?”

I shrug the blanket off, and my injured wing flops lamely near my shoulder. River’s eyebrows lower, and he comes closer.

“Let me look.”

He stows his serrated hunting knife, presents empty hands, and crouches to examine my injury. “Relax. I won’t hurt you. Let’s see the damage.” He’s gentle, avoiding the wound and handling my feathers softly. He lightly touches the bandage.

“Dr. Lytle runs the Stockade, the underground bunker and lab where the humans imprison and experiment on our kind. His men hunted me down and shot me with a crossbow as I tried

to escape. The wound is still healing––I changed the bandage earlier, but without a spare set of clothes, I had to tear strips off my pants to re-dress it.”

“Hmm.” He examines the back with a frown. “There’s an exit wound.”

“Yeah, I pulled it out.”

“Well, that was stupid of you. You could have died if those goons pierced a blood feather.”

My temper flares. “Oh, as opposed to leaving it in. I’d rather take my chances, thanks.” My voice is hostile, though I’m grateful for his help. I still don’t know who he is or what he wants, and my mother warned me to be on my guard.

River sits back on his haunches, sighs, and meets my eyes.

“Doesn’t look good. How long have you been here, kid? A day or so?”

“I’m no kid. I’m seventeen.”

“Well, I’m eighteen. So, you’re a kid.”

“By what, a few whole months?” I snicker. “Okay. If a kid free-climbed in the pitch-black up a hundred-foot cliff to get here, I guess I’m a kid.”

After examining the wound, he says, “The damage looks fixable. Let’s clean this well to prevent infection.”

“I’ve cleaned the wound.”

“Clean deeper,” he admonishes. “I don’t have antibiotics, but I’ll try to get some. Or at least honey. Honey heals.”

He hesitates before retrieving water, then takes a rag from his pouch and soaks the cloth. With the knife still in hand, he comes closer.

“Look … You seem all right, but I’m a lone wolf. I operate solo. You have a target with a big ‘X’ on your back. I feel bad for you. I do. But you know how it is with our kind.” He gives me a blatant look, so here’s your cue to leave.

“Gee, I’d kindly vacate the premises, but I can’t fly.”

He rubs the back of his neck, agitated. “The valley’s full of drones. And they’ve got at least a dozen soldiers combing the forest.”

“I’m sorry.” I shift my eyes down. “You never asked for any of this.”

“None of us did,” he waves me off. “The soldiers are here.

I’m screwed either way.” He pauses and assesses me. “Stay the night. Then after that, I’m sorry, but you need to find somewhere else to hide.”

The night might be all I need. “Thank you.”

About the Author:

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Haley Cavanagh is a military veteran, wife, and mother. She is a multiple award-winning and best-selling author and the two-time recipient of the League of Utah Writers Silver Quill Award in 2020 and 2024. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.

Excerpt: Shadowed Skies by Haley Cavanagh + giveaway

His mountain solitude shattered.
Her lab prison escaped.
Together they’ll find refuge or die trying.

Shadowed Skies
by Haley Cavanagh
4-1-25
Genre: YA Clean Dystopian SciFi Fantasy Romance
Hunted for their blood. Fighting for their future.

River
He’s the last of his kind, a winged warrior hidden in the mountains. River Shaw has lost everything: his sanctuary, the only shield from a world that fears and hunts him. When Delene, another of his kind, crash-lands into his life, wounded and on the run, his solitude is shattered.

Delene
She’s a fugitive with a secret, escaping the clutches of dark forces that took everything from her. Delene Fairborne’s flight to freedom leads her to River and the spark of a bond neither can deny.

In a landscape scarred by betrayal and danger, River and Delene must navigate their growing feelings and the sinister scientist who will stop at nothing to harness their power. Shadowed Skies is where love takes wing, hope soars, and destiny entwines. Dive into a world where every heartbeat is a rebellion, every glance a promise, and every flight a taste of freedom.

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I wake to a muscular, silent figure looming over me, his wings casting unnerving shadows. Intelligent dark eyes scrutinize me from his smooth, brown face framed by cropped black hair
and raven quills. He’s been around the block.
My guard shoots up. I’d stand, but my body’s too weak from the climb. “Your nest, huh? Sorry, I didn’t see your name on it.”
“It’s carved right over there.” He points past me to the rockface. My eyes travel over the stone, where he’d etched River in craggy letters. The carved name is so tiny I didn’t notice.
“Now you’re supposed to tell me your name. That’s how this goes.”
I blink. “Delene Fairborne. Listen, would you mind if I––ow,” I scrape against the wall and suck air through my teeth. I
clamp my eyes shut.
“Are you okay?”
I shrug the blanket off, and my injured wing flops lamely near my shoulder. River’s eyebrows lower, and he comes closer.
“Let me look.”
He stows his serrated hunting knife, presents empty hands, and crouches to examine my injury. “Relax. I won’t hurt you.
Let’s see the damage.” He’s gentle, avoiding the wound and handling my feathers softly. He lightly touches the bandage.
“Dr. Lytle runs the Stockade, the underground bunker and lab where the humans imprison and experiment on our kind.
His men hunted me down and shot me with a crossbow as I tried to escape. The wound is still healing––I changed the bandage earlier, but without a spare set of clothes, I had to tear strips off my pants to re-dress it.”
“Hmm.” He examines the back with a frown. “There’s an exit wound.”
“Yeah, I pulled it out.”
“Well, that was stupid of you. You could have died if those goons pierced a blood feather.”
My temper flares. “Oh, as opposed to leaving it in. I’d rather take my chances, thanks.” My voice is hostile, though I’m grateful for his help. I still don’t know who he is or what he
wants, and my mother warned me to be on my guard.
River sits back on his haunches, sighs, and meets my eyes.
“Doesn’t look good. How long have you been here, kid? A day or so?”
“I’m no kid. I’m seventeen.”
“Well, I’m eighteen. So, you’re a kid.”
“By what, a few whole months?” I snicker. “Okay. If a kid free-climbed in the pitch-black up a hundred-foot cliff to get here, I guess I’m a kid.”
After examining the wound, he says, “The damage looks fixable. Let’s clean this well to prevent infection.”
“I’ve cleaned the wound.”
“Clean deeper,” he admonishes. “I don’t have antibiotics, but I’ll try to get some. Or at least honey. Honey heals.”
He hesitates before retrieving water, then takes a rag from his pouch and soaks the cloth. With the knife still in hand, he comes closer.
“Look … You seem all right, but I’m a lone wolf. I operate solo. You have a target with a big ‘X’ on your back. I feel bad for you. I do. But you know how it is with our kind.” He gives me a blatant look, so here’s your cue to leave.
“Gee, I’d kindly vacate the premises, but I can’t fly.”
He rubs the back of his neck, agitated. “The valley’s full of drones. And they’ve got at least a dozen soldiers combing the forest.”
“I’m sorry.” I shift my eyes down. “You never asked for any of this.”
“None of us did,” he waves me off. “The soldiers are here. I’m screwed either way.” He pauses and assesses me. “Stay the night. Then after that, I’m sorry, but you need to find somewhere else to hide.”
The night might be all I need. “Thank you.”

About the Author:

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Haley Cavanagh is a military veteran, wife, and mother. She was awarded the League of Utah Writers 2020 Silver Quill Award for Retaliation, the second novel in her Oceanstone Initiative series. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.

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Interview with author D.L. Orton: The Mind Behind Hive, Madders of Time Book One

“Hive is an eminently engrossing read, full of heart, humor, and horror alike, with a surprisingly dark turn in its 11th hour that will have readers chomping at the bit for what’s next.”
—Publishers Weekly’s BookLife Reviews

Another alternate reality for Isabel and her beloved Diego, Hive sends Diego back to the past, changing everything for the course of the world, including Diego and Isabel’s own futures. The first in the new Madders of Time series, book four of this series will ALSO be book four of the Crossing in Time series, melding the two alternate paths into one brilliant ending.

What could be better in a series all about time travel and its effects, than the books themselves playing with all the potential timelines?

Diego and Isabel, the protagonists of your new novel Hive, are also the leads of your Crossing in Time series. What about these characters made you return to them once again?
Isabel and Diego have always been at the heart of my stories because they embody what I love most in fiction—messy, complicated, deeply human characters struggling against impossible odds. Their relationship isn’t just a love story; it’s a battle of wills, a testament to resilience, and proof that some bonds can transcend time itself.

Can you explain to us how this new series, Madders of Time, will connect to your Crossing in Time series?
Both series exist within the same multiverse, but Madders of Time expands the scope beyond the personal stakes of Crossing in Time. While the first series asked, What would you risk for love?, this new series asks, How far would you go to save humanity?

In Hive, we see an alternate timeline where the misuse of the spacetime bridge has led to catastrophe. The future is grim, but it’s not hopeless. Diego and Isabel (or rather, versions of them) are still fighting for survival, trying to undo the mistakes of the past. Familiar characters return, but their roles and circumstances may not be what readers expect. There are also deeper dives into the ethical dilemmas of time travel, AI consciousness, and the unintended consequences of scientific ambition. Fans of Crossing in Time will recognize the core themes, but Madders of Time takes the stakes to a whole new level.

I’m also planning to connect both the original and new series with book four (in both timelines). Yes, this is probably not a great life choice.

Where do you gain your inspiration—books, current events, other media, your own life?
All of the above! I’m a voracious reader, from classic sci-fi like Asimov and Le Guin to contemporary authors pushing the boundaries of fiction. I also pull a lot from current events—climate change, artificial intelligence, the way technology shapes our lives in ways we don’t always anticipate. Some of the most terrifying sci-fi concepts come from reading the news. (I wrote all three books in the original series before the covid pandemic arrived—and before DJT “escalatored” into politics.)
And of course, my own life seeps into the story in ways both big and small. The relationships in my books—the way people love, fight, and forgive—are drawn from real emotions and experiences. The science is grounded in research, but the heart of the story always comes from inside me.

If there's one thing you hope your readers take away from reading Hive—other than enjoyment of the story and a hope for the next in the series to come out soon—what would it be?
That even in the darkest of times, there’s always hope.
We live in a world that sometimes feels like it’s on the edge of collapse—political unrest, climate disasters, technological upheaval. Hive is, in many ways, a cautionary tale about the consequences of our choices. But it’s also a story about resilience, about the power of love and determination in the face of overwhelming odds. I want readers to come away not just entertained but inspired—to believe that even small actions matter, that fighting for a better future is always worth it.

What led to you becoming a writer of sci-fi?
I’ve always been fascinated by “what if” questions. What if time travel were real? What if AI could evolve beyond human control? What if we made the wrong choices and had to live with the fallout? Science fiction lets me explore these ideas while still telling deeply personal stories. I started writing sci-fi because I love science, but I stayed because it’s the perfect lens for examining what makes us human.

Are there any other projects you are working on?
Always! Right now, I’m deep into the next book in the Madders of Time series, which will take Diego and Isabel even further into the multiverse’s tangled web of climate change, AI, and (of course) love in impossible circumstances.

Hive (Madders of Time Book 1)
by D. L. Orton
May 6, 2025
In a crumbling biodome surrounded by endless seas and swarms of microdrones, humanity’s last survivors cling to hope. For Isabel, a dying scientist, and Diego, the man she loves, time is running out—literally. The Earth is ravaged, and the biodome that was meant to save them is failing. But when Isabel stumbles upon a long-lost time bridge, the possibility of changing the past emerges, offering one final chance to rewrite history.

There’s just one problem: only one person can make the journey.

As they grapple with the weight of impossible choices, love, and regret, Isabel and Diego must decide whether altering the course of time is worth the risk. Will their sacrifice save the future, or will tampering with the past ensure humanity’s extinction?

Tense, emotional, and thought-provoking, Hive is a story of survival, love, and the ultimate cost of second chances. When the future is at stake, how far would you go to change it?

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About the author
THE AWARD-WINNING & BEST-SELLING author DL ORTON lives in the Tropics with her husband, a golden retriever mutt, a Siberian cat with a crewcut, and a bazillion geckos.

In her spare time, she's building a time machine so that someone can go back and do the laundry.

Ms. Orton is a graduate of Stanford University's Writers Workshop and has received numerous literary awards including two Indie Book Awards, the BookLife Prize in Fiction, a USA Best Book Award, and an International Book Award. She was recently shortlisted for the Hoffer Book Award Grand Prize and was selected by Publishers Weekly as one of "The Best of the Best" Indie authors.

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Dragons, Mermaids, Elves… and Kitsune? (Keeper of Dragons: Aprella Academy Book 1) by J.A. Culican + giveaway

What if the key to saving the world lies in the one creature everyone learned to fear?

Dragons, Mermaids, Elves… and Kitsune? (Keeper of Dragons: Aprella Academy Book 1)
by J.A. Culican
Genre: YA Fantasy, Ranobe
What if the key to saving the world lies in the one creature everyone learned to fear?
 

Rhyden was supposed to stay hidden in Ochana, the floating realm of dragons—isolated ever since Prince Jago’s mysterious death. But with an unshakable sense of duty, he defies his people’s decree and enrolls at Aprella Academy, a legendary school where mermaids, elves, fairies, and kitsune shape the world’s magic.

Arriving as the first dragon on campus in a century, Rhyden becomes an instant sensation—and not everyone is thrilled about it. Whispers circulate that the wards protecting the academy are failing. A priceless artifact has been stolen, dark forces lurk in hidden corridors, and rumors blame the sudden “dragon presence” for the danger creeping past the gates.

Teaming up with a ragtag circle of new friends—Kairo the mermaid warrior torn between land and sea, Fenrick the kitsune trickster hiding unexpected insecurities, Talyssa the elf struggling to atone for her people’s past, and Lirien the quiet fairy sensing a looming evil—Rhyden races to unmask the culprit. Yet ominous illusions and shocking betrayals await at every turn, threatening to shatter the fragile trust he’s begun to build.

When Rhyden’s draconic power finally awakens, it’s as explosive as the secrets that forced dragons into hiding long ago. Determined to reclaim the dragon legacy and protect a world that once shunned his kind, he soon learns that defeating hidden enemies may require forging alliances beyond imagination—and confronting a darkness older than the academy itself.

Dive into a ranobe-inspired tale of epic magic, unlikely friendships, and one dragon shifter trying to light the path forward in a realm built on shadows. Will Rhyden spark a new era for dragons—or remind the world why they vanished in the first place?

Perfect for fans of magical academies, secret conspiracies, and unstoppable teamwork, Keeper of Dragons: Aprella Academy is your next addictive fantasy read.

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About the Author:
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J.A. Culican is a USA Today Bestselling author of the middle grade fantasy series Keeper of Dragons. Her first novel in the fictional series catapulted a trajectory of titles and awards, including top selling author on the USA Today bestsellers list and Amazon, and a rightfully earned spot as an international best seller. Additional accolades include Best Fantasy Book of 2016, Runner-up in Reality Bites Book Awards, and 1st place for Best Coming of Age Book from the Indie book Awards.

J.A. Culican holds a Master’s degree in Special Education from Niagara University, in which she has been teaching special education for over 13 years. She is also the president of the autism awareness non-profit Puzzle Peace United. J.A. Culican resides in Southern New Jersey with her husband and four young children. 

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YA Dark Fantasy New Release: Immortal Dark by Shermon Kodi

We're celebrating this gorgeous release by Shermon Kodi! Immortal Dark is now available!

Immortal Dark
by Shermon Kodi
March 10, 2025
Genre: YA/ Dark Fantasy
Tropes & Themes:
- Gangs, thieves, assassins
- Demons, monsters, magic
- Anti-chosen one
- Mystery & riveting plot twists
- Romance subplot
- Harmony-based magic system
- Paranormal horror vibes
- Sword & sorcerer
The shadows awaken as darkness falls. And these shadows have fangs.

Seventeen-year-old Bexis has survived the frozen streets of Coppejj by trusting no one but herself. With her shadow magic, she’s scraped by as a freelance thief, working for local gang lords and politicians.

But when a routine heist goes horribly wrong, Bexis is branded with ancient magic, making her the target of a bloodthirsty spirit.

Desperate for answers, she turns to an eccentric demon hunter. Together, they uncover a deadly plot by a sinister cabal, threatening to plunge the world into eternal night. As Bexis confronts her haunted past, she faces a grim choice: Embrace the shadows within, or lose everything she holds dear.

To destroy the darkness, she must first become it.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

About the author
Website
Shermon Kodi is a legally blind author who finds inspiration in the quiet knolls of Chittenden County, Vermont, where the long snowy winters drive one to pair wool socks with moccasin slippers and curl up by the furnace with a pot of chamomile tea and a book about monsters in dark places doing dark things. Through his writing, Shermon seeks to explore the resilience of the human spirit, the tenacity of good people faced with hard times, and the relationships that light us up, make our hearts smile, and carry us through every storm.

When he’s not writing, Shermon spends his time thinking about writing.

He knows this is a problem— although, he contends, it’s a good kind of problem to have. Occasionally, he’ll break from his routines and really let go— sleep in till 7 AM, drink tea instead of coffee, read in the mornings, or plug in the ’07 Strat and reminisce about the days when he dreamed of being a rockstar instead of an author.

He’ll be the first to tell you: “No regrets!”

Life is funny like that.

Shermon is the author of Heart of the Valley and Songs of the Rhor, both available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited. Stay connected on TikTok and Instagram for updates on his latest books, behind-the-scenes insights, and creative content.

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YA Fantasy Romance: The Usher of Spring (Blood of the Seasons Book 1) by Tayloranne Worley

The Usher of Spring (Blood of the Seasons Book 1)
by Tayloranne Worley
March 2, 2025
Genre: Fantasy Romance/ Greek & Norse Mythology, Teen & Young Adult
Tropes/Triggers:
There is a human sacrifice off scene. There is slowburn, sweet romance, greek and norse mythology, betrayal, gladiator fights, and magical creatures

"Despite my curse, we're still family? Right?"

"Of course Maev, nothing will ever change that."

In the frozen realm of Aringuard, the heart of an ancient god governs the seasons. Every four years, the goddess Erinyes chooses a new Usher of Spring; a young girl who must travel the lands carrying the immortal heart and spilling its blood so that Spring may bloom.

To be the Usher of Spring is the greatest honor.

But to work as their servant is a death sentence. At the end of the four years, the Usher's servants are sacrificed so that she may be reborn as a goddess. Frida is chosen to be the Usher, but quickly learns that it is more than she bargained for. Then she is presented with a choice: lose everything or doom everyone.

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About the Author:
Hi, I’m Tayloranne! I’m the author of The Usher of Spring, my debut novel inspired by Greek and Norse mythology. I love coffee, my gremlin dog Quesadilla, and my wonderful husband, who’s been my biggest supporter in all my creative passions. When I’m not writing, I work full-time as a meteorologist, which means I spend far too much time staring at clouds. (My favorite? Altocumulus Standing Lenticular—those beauties are mesmerizing!)

YA Fantasy: Immortal Dark by Shermon Kodi + giveaway

 

Immortal Dark
by Shermon Kodi
March 10th 2025
Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult
The shadows awaken as darkness falls. And these shadows have fangs.

Seventeen-year-old Bexis has survived the frozen streets of Coppejj by trusting no one but herself. With her shadow magic, she’s scraped by as a freelance thief, working for local gang lords and politicians.

But when a routine heist goes horribly wrong, Bexis is branded with ancient magic, making her the target of a bloodthirsty spirit.

Desperate for answers, she turns to an eccentric demon hunter. Together, they uncover a deadly plot by a sinister cabal, threatening to plunge the world into eternal night. As Bexis confronts her haunted past, she faces a grim choice: Embrace the shadows within, or lose everything she holds dear.

To destroy the darkness, she must first become it.

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EXCERPT:
The job is simple.

Enter the room unseen. Wait for Ajjan to distract the mark—a foreign dignitary from the south. Then acquire her handbag and deliver it to the other side of town.

No blood. No trace.

My employer was very specific about that last bit. It’s common protocol in my line of work, along with an understanding that pay will be docked by half if I’m spotted. If there’s blood, I might not get paid at all. My mark must never know I was here. Personally, I thought I’d outgrown grabbing purses in the night. But it’s an easy job, and I can use the money.

The red night moon casts the world in crimson light as I pull myself onto the third-story balcony of a slummy brothel in the west end. The window is webbed with ice, obscuring my view inside—I can only make out pale blotches of yellow light. There doesn’t seem to be any movement, but I can’t be sure the room is empty. I just have to hope the Blackbones did their job and set everything up.

I give the windowpane a shove, but it doesn’t budge. Damn. The thing hasn’t been opened in months, and it’s frozen shut. For a common thief, a frozen window stymies a job. But I’m no common thief.

I take out my trapper tone pipe, a metal cylinder with a single reed, tuned to one specific note. The reflective surface catches light from the lanterns below, illuminating my name inscribed along the side in big bold letters: BEXIS. It was a gift from my deadbeat father right before he abandoned me. It’s the last thing I have from him, and if it weren’t so damn useful, I’d have tossed it years ago.

I bring the pipe to my lips and blow. The note is inaudible, like a dog whistle, too high for the human ear to hear. But the vibration weaves through the air and seeps into my skin, where it sparks like flint on steel, and a sonorous ember catches deep in my chest. Resonance hums through my body. The ambient darkness around me shimmers with feathered lines of silver that only I can see.

A burst of power shudders through me, and I hold it within my realm of focus, like cupping a candle against a sea wind.

This is resonance trapping—the first step in performing harmonic magic. Mine is the harmony of shadow. Sparking the ember is the easy part. Trapping it is more difficult, but holding it once it’s been trapped? Well, that’s like riding an angry wolverine. If I’m not careful, I might lose control, and people could get hurt. It’s been months since that’s happened, but there’s always a chance the resonance will lash out, sending me into an episode of uncontrollable power.

Resonance quivers through my veins. I reach my hand to the glass, willing the vibration into my fingertips, and the shadows obey. Tendrils of silver swirl across my wrist and through my palm. I touch the windowpane, and the shadows run through it, seeping like oil into the hinges.

The window squeals as ice crumbles around the edges.

I shift my awareness to the space above my head. Resonance purrs in my chest as I weave gossamer strands of silver around me like a cloak. This is my greatest trick. So long as I can hold the resonance and have enough ambient shadow to work with, I can conceal myself from prying eyes. But I can’t maintain it for long; already, I can feel my energy beginning to drain as heaviness settles behind my eyes.

Best be quick now.

I heave the window open and squeeze inside.

About the Author:

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Shermon Kodi is a legally blind author who finds inspiration in the quiet knolls of Chittenden County, Vermont, where the long snowy winters drive one to pair wool socks with moccasin slippers and curl up by the furnace with a pot of chamomile tea and a book about monsters in dark places doing dark things. Through his writing, Shermon seeks to explore the resilience of the human spirit, the tenacity of good people faced with hard times, and the relationships that light us up, make our hearts smile, and carry us through every storm.

When he’s not writing, Shermon spends his time thinking about writing.

He knows this is a problem— although, he contends, it’s a good kind of problem to have. Occasionally, he’ll break from his routines and really let go— sleep in till 7 AM, drink tea instead of coffee, read in the mornings, or plug in the ’07 Strat and reminisce about the days when he dreamed of being a rockstar instead of an author.

He’ll be the first to tell you: “No regrets!”

Life is funny like that.

Shermon is the author of Heart of the Valley and Songs of the Rhor, both available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited. Stay connected on TikTok and Instagram for updates on his latest books, behind-the-scenes insights, and creative content.

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Cover Reveal: Brimstone & Blades by Maria Alexander

Brimstone & Blades
by Maria Alexander
June 3rd 2025
Genres: Fantasy, Historical, Young Adult
It’s 1689. Sixteen-year-old Julie de Maupin is on the run with her boyfriend, a young swordmaster named Sérannes. They perform sword fights and songs in taverns to survive. But when a diabolical creature kills Sérannes, it also injures Julie in the attack. Plunged into the dangerous world of French magic, Julie needs to return to Paris to find the great magician that can heal her devastating wound so she can avenge Sérannes’s death. On the way, she finds the creature is controlled by a necromantic coven called the Shadow Holders. Defeated during the Affair of the Poisons, they’ve returned but this time with traitors in the royal court to crush Louis XIV and terrorize France. With her found family of magical and moggie misfits, Julie must use her sword, wits, and gender-bending wiles to send the threat back to Hell. But will they be enough? Magic is illegal, and so is dueling. But that won’t stop La Maupin.

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Maria Alexander is an Amazon #1 Bestseller of Young Adult Horror. Her short stories and nonfiction essays have appeared in numerous publications and acclaimed anthologies alongside living legends such as David Morrell and Heather Graham.

Her debut novel, MR. WICKER, won the 2014 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. Her first YA novel, SNOWED, won the 2016 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult Novel, and was nominated for the 2017 Anthony Award for Best Children's/YA Novel.

She lives in Los Angeles with two ungrateful cats, a Jewish Christmas caroler, and a purse called Trog.

YA Epic Fantasy: The General (Heroes of the Empire Book 2) by Israh Azizi

We are thrilled to share the second epic installment in the Heroes of the Empire series, The General by Israh Azizi!

The General (Heroes of the Empire Book 2)
by Israh Azizi
November 2023
Genre: YA Fantasy/ Epic Fantasy
THE EMPIRE IS CRUMBLING, AND THE FATE OF A KINGDOM RESTS IN THEIR HANDS.
Tropes:
Morally Grey Characters, Mistaken Identity, Royal Intrigue, Multiple POV, Chosen One, Slow Burn Romance, Found Family, Warring Kingdoms, Forbidden Love, Hidden Powers, Character Driven

Mordon dedicated his life to his father; his only dream was to prove himself worthy of Verin’s general. But with the ruthless Tariqin attack comes a brutal awakening. Captured by enemy forces and dragged into a war camp full of the people he was trained to kill, his hopes of proving himself worthy are dashed to pieces. When the enemy offers him a chance for a grand future, he’s faced with a test that stretches him beyond his limits.

Coralie’s burden has never been heavier. After the Dark Lord Prolus’s recent assault and her uncle’s declining health, it is up to her to keep her kingdom together. The inevitable return of the Tariqin army lurks at their doorstep and her time is running short. Coralie turns to the newest residents of Verintown for assistance. Branded traitors and hated by many in the castle, they may very well be her downfall. Using their pledge for change in her favor, she tasks them with a mission most would consider a death sentence.

Two determined warriors separated by a river of blood. Mordon must risk everything to become the man he yearns to be, and Coralie must fight to become the queen she was born to be.

GET IT HERE

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YA Romantasy: Frost Bound (Entangled with Trickery Book 1) by Frost Kay

Frost Bound (Entangled with Trickery Book 1)
by Frost Kay
February 13, 2025
Book 1 of 2: Entangled with Trickery
Genre: Teen & Young Adult, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy Romance
Dahlia Skysinger has managed to survive the underworld of Astera her whole life through clever deals, selling her voice, and never staying in one place too long. When her little brother is caught stealing from the crown, Lia is forced to make a cruel bargain with the royals.

Her life for his.

To regain her freedom, Lia must impersonate the princess, marry the monstrous frost giant king, then spy on and . . . kill him.

Taking a human bride is King Neve’s last chance to secure peace for his people. Promised a frail mortal princess he could lock away and forget about, the last thing he expects is a woman with a sharp tongue and a reckless amount of courage. Lia might be the key to avoiding war, but he doesn’t trust a single word that falls from her pretty lips.

And so the wicked game of trickery and survival begins.

But what happens when an assassin starts to have feelings for her target, and a king's icy heart begins to melt for his little human bride?

Book One of The Entangled in Trickery Series

Perfect for romantasy readers who enjoy fiery enemies to lovers romance, arranged marriage, learning to love yourself, epic fantasy adventure, sexy monster villains, slow burn with ALL the tension and angst, and mythical sidekicks.

✓ Monster love interest who hates humans
✓ Imposter princess who will do anything to protect her family
✓ Enemies to lovers within an arranged marriage
✓ Size difference
✓ Pining/angst 

 Amazon

About the Author:
website
FROST KAY is a USA Today bestselling author and a certified book dragon with an excessive TBR.

She adores telling stories of strong women, diverse cultures, and epic fantasy worlds filled with relatable characters and true love. She lives in the United States and when not immersed in her newest book, you can find her free diving in her mermaid tail, rock climbing, camping, or soaking up the sun with her cat.

Fans of Frost Kay love her epic fantasy and science fiction teen titles for their "witty banter and exquisitely crafted sentences (that) never leave you bored or wanting," and "find the writing on par with Queen (Sarah J.) Maas and Elise Kova."

You can find signed books on her website: www.frostkay.net

Excerpt: Bright Midnights (The Limerent Series) by LS Delorme

Bright Midnights (The Limerent Series)
by LS Delorme
September 29, 2023
Genre: Coming of age, teen, urban fantasy
Amelie has always been different.

Most high school students find life challenging, but 17-year old Amelie has a lot more to contend with than typical teenage angst. Ever since she turned 11, others have been irresistibly drawn to her—with tragic consequences.
Her only escape is at night when she flies to different times and places through her “dreams”. Her life begins to change when, on one of her flights, she meets Clovis, an alluring and mysterious young man who hides a secret.
As Amelie finds herself increasingly drawn to him, she learns his story, how it intertwines with her own and finally discovers how to live her life in the real world. Until her own secrets are revealed to the wrong people and that world turns upside down.

Amazon

EXCERPT
Lying outstretched on a smooth portion of the rock, head resting upon a lazy arm, was a young man. He was dark haired and lean, dressed in the tattered remains of what was a probably once-white shirt and black trousers. His black hair fell to the nape of his neck and was probably straight, but wildly unkempt.

His skin was pale but not sickly so. She would have guessed him to be about her age, or at most a couple of years older, but it was hard to tell because he was so beautiful as to seem ageless. So beautiful that Amelie found herself holding her breath. He looked more like a painting or a mythological being than a real human. In fact, with goat legs he could have been a satyr. He rolled over in his sleep, throwing his arm over his eyes. He had a heart-shaped face with just a slight amount of scruff to it, like he was too young to grow a proper beard. Amelie smiled at that. She moved to the water's edge and sank into a crouching position.

The boy was motionless now, having fallen back into a deep sleep. Overhead, the wind rustled in the trees, and golden leaves danced in the air around her. The sunlight that was able to pierce the trees made dappled patterns on the boy's pale skin. She watched his chest move up and down. Her own breath was coming faster, and as it did, she became aware that she was feeling something, something strong.

Feeling much of anything besides caution was an anomaly for her but feeling thing this strong happened... never. Just to watch this boy was more engrossing that any play she had seen, any song she had heard, any book she had read. He did nothing but breathe and occasionally move his head ever so slightly-and she was riveted.
Amelie was startled out of this reverie by the sound of a twig snapping. Starting, she found herself not ten feet from a stag, staring back at her with wide black eyes.

She heard a splash, and the stag was gone. When she turned, so was the boy.

A cloud covered the sun, and the wind came up. The air around her crackled with energy. Something felt wrong. She scrambled to her feet and was beginning to back away when the boy leaped from the water and onto the bank just a few feet in front of her. He was crouched and when his black eyes met hers, she felt her blood run cold. His form was human, but there was nothing human about his movements, or what was behind those eyes. He smiled and uttered a low growl.

About the Author:
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Lexy Delorme is a wanderer and storyteller at heart. Raised as a “military brat” by United States Navy Captain, she has lived on three continents, across four countries, nine states, and 21 cities. Now based in Paris with her charming French husband and two very cool sons, she is a full-time author—a journey that has taken her from being a rock musician to a science graduate to an attorney at law.
A passionate fan of fantasy and science fiction, Lexy created the Limerence universe, which includes Caio, Bright Midnights, Fanning Fireflies, and Ghosting Academy. Her book Bright Midnights was named a Publishers Weekly (BookLife) “Editors’ Choice Pick” and was a finalist Golden Wizard Award Competition in 2024. She is currently working on the latest instalment in the series.
Lexy is an active member of the British Fantasy Society, the Science Fiction Writers Association, the Horror Writers Association, IBPA, and ALLi.

Tide Song, Melody of the Deep: A fantasy coming of age adventure (Tide Song Duology, Part 1) by K.E. Hummel

We're celebrating brand new fantasy Tide Song by K.E. Hummel. Read on for more details!

Tide Song: Melody of the Deep
by K.E. Hummel
Jan 17, 2025
Genre: YA Fantasy/ No Romance
Tropes:
Coming of age, reluctant hero, mythical creatures, found family, epic quest, overcoming prejudice
"Her voice can bridge worlds, but can it save them?"

A shattered nest
Their children dead
While above, invaders sail...

In the peaceful waters of Tirahanko Bay, Kei’s unique voice connects her to the Kopri, wise octopus-folk vital to her people’s survival. But a Kopri Prophet’s desperate plea thrusts Kei into a dangerous mission. She must journey to the outer sea, to help the Kopri communicate with the cruel Koru-Kah, human invaders destroying the Kopri’s underwater realm.

As danger mounts and Kei travels far from home, she must find a strength she never knew she had. Despite paralyzed legs, Kei navigates the perilous waters of captivity and forges unexpected bonds with Jacuti, a young enslaved sailor, and her loyal Kopri friend, OldFish. Together, they must face the inhumanity of the invaders and save the Kopri from destruction.

“Tide Song: Melody of the Deep” can be read as a stand-alone, complete novel. But the story continues in Part Two of the Tide Song Duology: “Children of Tayjaru,” coming to Amazon June 15, 2025. Perfect for young adult and adult readers.
 who believe in the magic within themselves and the strength found in unexpected friendships.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

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YA Dark Fantasy: Infestation (Days of Iron and Clay Book 2) by Aileen Erin

Welcome to the tour for Aileen Erin’s latest release, Infestation!

Infestation (Days of Iron and Clay Book 2) 

by Aileen Erin

January 21, 2025
Genre: YA Dark Fantasy
• Good v. Evil
• Found Family
• Angels & Demons
• Slow Burn Romance
• YA Dark Fantasy

“Invocation is a brilliantly crafted, action-packed romantasy thriller you won’t be able to put down.” – Erin Michelle Sky, Author

SAMANTHA
I never thought I’d willingly walk into Hell again, but I did.
I survived and am back where I belong—at home. But Gabe, my demon-dead friend, is still missing. And the guilt is crippling me.

While I’m laughing and happy with my boyfriend, Gabe is suffering. While I’m resting and healing, Gabe is being endlessly tortured. But every plan I come up with is a suicide mission. And despite what it sometimes looks like, I’m not ready to die.

So, when my werewolf friends ask me to help their pack with a problem, there’s no way I can say no—even if I’m not ready to jump into another fight. There’s a mysterious evil the werewolves can’t track, and they need me to help them kill it.
It’s the perfect distraction. The only problem? Phoenix, a mortal, wants to go with me.

Even though he’s proven he can handle the supernatural, I can’t help but think nothing good can come from him getting an even better glimpse of how not normal my work life is. But I can’t say no to him; all I can do is pray Phoenix is still by my side when this is over.

PHOENIX
My life pre-Samantha was turmoil. Soccer career, over. Family life, devastated after the loss of my grandmother. Dating? Laughable. Every relationship fell apart because the door in my heart had been shut tight. I was unknowingly holding out for the one girl who had completely changed my world.

Samantha is it for me; my heart knew it before I did. I’d go anywhere as long as it’s with her.

But her guardian angel, Eli, said something to me that makes me think something truly terrible will happen to Samantha. And I’m not about to let that happen. I’ll do anything to keep her safe.

“I absolutely loved this book, it blew my mind…I laughed, I cried, I swooned…it’s a heartfelt epic adventure! – Sheila Kay, Author

AUTHOR NOTE: The Days of Iron & Clay is a spin-off the Alpha Girls Series, but can be fully enjoyed alone and is best enjoyed in order! Infestation picks up right where Invocation left off. Be sure to read Invocation first!

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Book 1

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About the author
Website
USA TODAY Bestselling author Aileen Erin is half-Irish, half-Mexican, and 100% nerd—from Star Wars (prequels don’t count) to Star Trek (TNG FTW), she geeks out on Tolkien's linguistics, and has a severe fascination with the supernatural. Aileen has a BS in Radio-TV-Film from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She lives with her husband and daughter in Texas and spends her days doing her favorite things: reading books, creating worlds, and kicking ass.

UPCOMING SERIES - THE DAYS OF IRON AND CLAY - YA Paranormal spin off of the ALPHA GIRLS series with angels, demons, werewolves, fey & everything else paranormal

YA witchy fantasyon Kindle Unlimited! Autumn Death (Bird Girl Witches Book 1) by L.A. Brown

Welcome to the tour for Autumn Death by L.A. Brown -- a gorgeous YA witchy fantasy you can now read on Kindle Unlimited!

Autumn Death (Bird Girl Witches Book 1)

by L.A. Brown

November 13, 2024
Genre: YA Dark Fantasy/ Witches
Tropes: The Supernatural, The Outsider, First Love, Love is the Answer, Coming of Age, Ancient Secrets, Backing into Darkness, Body Switching, Dark Family Secrets, Crime in the Family, Found Family, Fated Mates, Forbidden Love, Creepy Settings, A Foreboding Atmosphere, Mysterious Things are Happening, Magical Secrets, Fantastical Creatures, Magical Systems, Training Sequences, Powerful Artifacts, High Stakes, Happy Ending, Hereditary Witches, Hauntings

In book one of the Bird Girl Witches series, the mystical realm of The Korvids is being terrorized by a dark force, and a young, psychic girl may be the only one who can stop it. 

 

Arabel Spade is just 17 years old, but holds the gift of extraordinary supernatural abilities. When a series of brutal murders rock her hometown, she is determined to use her powers to solve the crimes and protect her people. 

 

But tracking the killer puts her on a collision course with the sinister Dorojenja – evil sorcerers intent on putting an end to her investigation, if not her life. As the bodies pile up, Arabel must navigate a web of secrets, betray her cold-hearted grandmother’s wishes, and forge alliances with mysterious magical factions like the Travelers.

Join Arabel’s epic journey of magic, danger, and self-discovery, as she battles for the ultimate fate of The Korvids.Join Arabel’s epic journey of magic, danger, and self-discovery, as she battles for the ultimate fate of The Korvids.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

CW: Three murders which happen off-page, but the bodies are found on the page. These murders are not described in detail, but it is mentioned that the bodies are naked and posed in a sacrificial manner. There is also a murder by drowning, body possession, and a murder by a vicious Death Ribbon spell. There are also ghostly attacks on our heroine and a kidnapping. There is a lot of romantic desire, but no sexual activity outside of kissing.

 

About the Author:

Lisa Ann Brown began her creative journey as both a writer and an actor. After studying Musical Theatre at Douglas College and screenwriting at Vancouver Film School, she spent a few years in Hollywood. Returning to Vancouver, LA became a talent agent before retiring from the film industry to focus on writing full-time.

She resides in picturesque Vancouver, Canada, happily nestled between the Pacific Ocean and Coastal Mountains.

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