The Final Paladin by T.J. Akers

Our Score

T.J. Akers describes The Final Paladin as “urban fantasy.” I would amend that to historical urban fantasy given that its real-world setting takes place at the turn of the 20th century.

Filled with crusaders, murders, a mysterious key, and a host of fantastical creatures, I recommend this YA novel for older readers of the genre.… Read the rest

Pirate’s Wager by Kathrese McKee

Our Score

Pirates. Life on the high seas. Betrayal. Held for ransom. Pirate’s Wager fulfills the dream of every reader who loves swashbuckling adventure.

SYNOPSIS

Thirteen-year-old Samazor struggles to find shelter and food in Port Azor, but when his father loses a bet with an infamous pirate captain, Samazor loses his freedom.… Read the rest

…and now Miguel by Joseph Krumgold

Our Score

The “coming-of-age” story. When a boy becomes a man.

…and now Miguel is a great read for boys ages nine through thirteen. Joseph Krumgold really gets into the head of a kid during that in-between age, wanting to be respected as a man yet child enough that he’s not quite ready for a man’s responsibilities.… Read the rest

Five Flavors of Dumb by Antony John

Our Score

When Antony John’s wife challenged him to write a book about rock music and its personalities from a deaf person’s point of view, Five Flavors of Dumb was the result.


Synopsis

Eighteen-year-old Piper Vaughn lost her hearing in fifth grade, so her speech is pretty clear, and she’s mastered the skill of reading lips.… Read the rest