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Reviews
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Crunch Review
Reviewed by Chelsey Tucker for Independent Book Reviews
A fun and entertaining tale of how one Super-Hero family saves the day
During high school, Walter Braymend (or Crunch) and his future wife Amanda confront Mustachio, one of the most notorious Super-Villains, and it reshapes the entire Super-Hero world. Walter and Amanda become the last two adult Super-Heroes in the world. But this event leaves one critical question unanswered: Can Crunch and his family ensure the revival of the Super-Hero community?
Their real adventure begins with raising seven children who all have superpowers. Needless to say, chaos ensues. In a humorous first-person account, Walter provides insights into growing up with superpowers, parenting those with superpowers, and even a glimpse into what the infrastructure of the Super-Hero world is supposed to be like, including classes, code names, and Super-Suits. As he puts it, “They are really uncomfortable! You’re basically wearing industrial-strength spandex. It feels like you’re walking around in a suit of armor that’s skin-tight.”
Crunch is entertaining in that it provides a unique perspective on how Super-Heroes operate within society—or at least attempt to. Raising children is already a whirlwind, but raising kids with superpowers and insatiable appetites takes the experience to a whole new level. As Walter humorously reflects about a trip to Burger King, “You’re there with your wife and seven very young kids, and you’ve just ordered fifty-two orders of fries, three burgers for each kid, and a salad. Put in that order next time you’re at any restaurant and see what kind of reactions you get.”
One of the book’s highlights is the conversational narration. Walter Braymend maintains a consistent, fatherly tone throughout the book, ensuring that readers are always aware of the storyteller. The plot unfolds like an engaging story from a fun-loving father with several children, complete with distractions and side notes that add a layer of comedy to this lighthearted Super-Family story.
While some readers may find the narration style unconventional, the author acknowledges this concern in the first chapter. This early self-awareness sets the tone for the book and allows readers to gauge whether the narrative aligns with their preferences.
Crunch primarily delves into the life of a Super-Hero family and their journey from inception to maturity, with the Super-Villain serving as a secondary character. Those expecting a plethora of action-packed sequences may not find what they seek, but those in pursuit of a good laugh will certainly discover it here.
This comedic account of raising Super-Hero children is the linchpin this story, and it proves a hilarious, enjoyable, and easy read. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a light-hearted adventure in the world of Super-Hero families
A fun and entertaining tale of how one Super-Hero family saves the day
During high school, Walter Braymend (or Crunch) and his future wife Amanda confront Mustachio, one of the most notorious Super-Villains, and it reshapes the entire Super-Hero world. Walter and Amanda become the last two adult Super-Heroes in the world. But this event leaves one critical question unanswered: Can Crunch and his family ensure the revival of the Super-Hero community?
Their real adventure begins with raising seven children who all have superpowers. Needless to say, chaos ensues. In a humorous first-person account, Walter provides insights into growing up with superpowers, parenting those with superpowers, and even a glimpse into what the infrastructure of the Super-Hero world is supposed to be like, including classes, code names, and Super-Suits. As he puts it, “They are really uncomfortable! You’re basically wearing industrial-strength spandex. It feels like you’re walking around in a suit of armor that’s skin-tight.”
Crunch is entertaining in that it provides a unique perspective on how Super-Heroes operate within society—or at least attempt to. Raising children is already a whirlwind, but raising kids with superpowers and insatiable appetites takes the experience to a whole new level. As Walter humorously reflects about a trip to Burger King, “You’re there with your wife and seven very young kids, and you’ve just ordered fifty-two orders of fries, three burgers for each kid, and a salad. Put in that order next time you’re at any restaurant and see what kind of reactions you get.”
One of the book’s highlights is the conversational narration. Walter Braymend maintains a consistent, fatherly tone throughout the book, ensuring that readers are always aware of the storyteller. The plot unfolds like an engaging story from a fun-loving father with several children, complete with distractions and side notes that add a layer of comedy to this lighthearted Super-Family story.
While some readers may find the narration style unconventional, the author acknowledges this concern in the first chapter. This early self-awareness sets the tone for the book and allows readers to gauge whether the narrative aligns with their preferences.
Crunch primarily delves into the life of a Super-Hero family and their journey from inception to maturity, with the Super-Villain serving as a secondary character. Those expecting a plethora of action-packed sequences may not find what they seek, but those in pursuit of a good laugh will certainly discover it here.
This comedic account of raising Super-Hero children is the linchpin this story, and it proves a hilarious, enjoyable, and easy read. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a light-hearted adventure in the world of Super-Hero families
Alliance Review
Alliance by Tyler Svec begins when Roy Van Doren discovers a hidden door that leads to another world. There, he meets the Reno family—Alexander, Abby, and Cyrus—who explain the power issues between the authoritarian Alliance and the resistance, the Chrystarians. Roy is sent to the Hentar Academy, where he trains as a soldier, while Cyrus joins the Alliance’s ranks. As Roy and his friends grow closer to the resistance, they learn more about the Alliance’s manipulative control and their plans for war. Roy's rapid success in training raises suspicion, and he starts uncovering troubling truths about the Alliance’s intentions, especially with the manipulation of off-worlders like him. As trouble brews, Roy and Abby develop a secret relationship and embark on covert missions to expose the Alliance’s lies.
Tyler Svec’s Alliance is a unique fantasy hybrid that effectively mixes the best of military strategy with equal doses of mysticism. Svec's writing style is straightforward and sharp as we get into the heart of the action, the standout being when Roy’s team is sent to a ghost town and discovers horrific evidence of betrayal. This also leans into Svec’s excellent world-building, with detailed descriptions of the recruits’ training, Griffins, places like the mysterious city of Darsujes, and the threat of looming war. The character development is strong and it's interesting to watch two young men who begin on a similar footing, even if one is off-world, that end up on drastically different sides. Overall, this is a solid first installment in what looks like a really promising series, and while it does not end entirely on a cliffhanger, it's clear there is so much more to come. Very highly recommended.
Tyler Svec’s Alliance is a unique fantasy hybrid that effectively mixes the best of military strategy with equal doses of mysticism. Svec's writing style is straightforward and sharp as we get into the heart of the action, the standout being when Roy’s team is sent to a ghost town and discovers horrific evidence of betrayal. This also leans into Svec’s excellent world-building, with detailed descriptions of the recruits’ training, Griffins, places like the mysterious city of Darsujes, and the threat of looming war. The character development is strong and it's interesting to watch two young men who begin on a similar footing, even if one is off-world, that end up on drastically different sides. Overall, this is a solid first installment in what looks like a really promising series, and while it does not end entirely on a cliffhanger, it's clear there is so much more to come. Very highly recommended.
Rebellion Review
Rebellion is the second book in The Kingdom series by Tyler Svec. Although the war between the Lucerine-led Alliance and Chrystar's Kingdom continues, Roy Van Doren and his wife Abigail enjoy time together in their cabin in the Appalachian Mountains. But soon, Jonathan brings along with him other members of the A-Team, while Roy's brother Geoffrey inadvertently enters the room that takes him to the other world, where he comes across Alexander and Savannah. Meanwhile, people from Roy's world have been taken as captives by the Hentarian Knights. Additionally, Cyrus is secretly launching a rebellion among the Alliance's forces. As Lucerine sets out to spread his dominion over both worlds, Roy, his friends, and his newfound allies are the only ones standing in his way. But now, one of their own is missing.
Jam-packed with action, romance, and lore, Rebellion is a treat for portal fantasy lovers. Tyler Svec's worldbuilding is fantastic. The author has crafted a lively world full of diverse locations, inner-world politics, and vibrant characters with their own agency. Roy and his A-Team are the main heroes of the story, but even secondary characters like Christina, Cyrus, and Geoffrey have so much going on in their story arcs. It makes the narrative immersive and all the more enjoyable for the reader. The plot is evenly paced and features well-placed twists and turns that keep readers hooked until the end. The narrative ends on a cliffhanger, which I think will be resolved in the next installment. I am very much looking forward to reading that. In conclusion, this series is tailor-made for young adult fantasy readers.
Jam-packed with action, romance, and lore, Rebellion is a treat for portal fantasy lovers. Tyler Svec's worldbuilding is fantastic. The author has crafted a lively world full of diverse locations, inner-world politics, and vibrant characters with their own agency. Roy and his A-Team are the main heroes of the story, but even secondary characters like Christina, Cyrus, and Geoffrey have so much going on in their story arcs. It makes the narrative immersive and all the more enjoyable for the reader. The plot is evenly paced and features well-placed twists and turns that keep readers hooked until the end. The narrative ends on a cliffhanger, which I think will be resolved in the next installment. I am very much looking forward to reading that. In conclusion, this series is tailor-made for young adult fantasy readers.
Redemption Review
“Redemption” is the third book in The Kingdom series by Tyler Svec and I must say it is an excellent story. I was not sure what to expect, as I had not read the first two books in this series, but I absolutely loved it and look forward to going back to read the previous books now.
“Redemption” is the story of the final battle between The Kingdom and The Alliance, and the excitement begins on the very first page and never lets go. Roy Van Doren, the leader of a very interesting group of Kingdom members, is in Vermont beginning a search for the third door between his world and the world on the other side. Having already found two of the three doors, Roy knows that in order for him, his family, and friends to find true peace (no matter which side of the doors they live on), this final door must be found, a war must be won, and the door must be destroyed. On the other side of the door, Alexander and his friend Gorro continue the search for Savannah, Alexander’s wife, who has been taken by the Alliance.
As these two quests continue, the Alliance and their leader Lucerine seek a final battle that will destroy their enemies and give them power over both worlds. Meanwhile, all those who have chosen to side with the Kingdom are preparing to fight and restore peace. With some characters turning out not to be what they first seemed and some being even worse than we thought, the story brings readers to the final moment when one group or the other must emerge victorious.
I loved the world-building that the author put into this story. It is simply fabulous. Whether in the lovely state of Vermont checking into The Griff Inn or on the other side of the door flying some fascinating creature over the desolate plains, the reader is able to feel as if they are actually there with the characters. That, to me, makes the book such a fun one to read…being able to feel like I am really a part of it. The creatures and the different types of other world “technology” (for lack of a better word) that are used to fight are very interesting and add much to the story.
Given the numerous and very different characters, it is an extremely well-written story. With so much going on with the characters all the time, I was impressed that everything came through clearly and I understood all that was happening to everyone throughout the book. The characters, both good and bad, are very well-developed and hold the reader’s attention. The dialogue flows well and keeps the reader glued to the pages, anxious to see what is going to be said or done next.
Tyler Svec’s “Redemption” is a great book that I highly recommend to all fantasy fans out there. While I’m certain it would be beneficial to have read the first two books in the series, it is not a necessity. Thanks to the author’s wonderful brief synopsis of the first books at the beginning of this story, the reader will get the overall idea of what has happened and be able to thoroughly enjoy this final installment from there. I really enjoyed this story and I think you will too. 5 Stars!
“Redemption” is the story of the final battle between The Kingdom and The Alliance, and the excitement begins on the very first page and never lets go. Roy Van Doren, the leader of a very interesting group of Kingdom members, is in Vermont beginning a search for the third door between his world and the world on the other side. Having already found two of the three doors, Roy knows that in order for him, his family, and friends to find true peace (no matter which side of the doors they live on), this final door must be found, a war must be won, and the door must be destroyed. On the other side of the door, Alexander and his friend Gorro continue the search for Savannah, Alexander’s wife, who has been taken by the Alliance.
As these two quests continue, the Alliance and their leader Lucerine seek a final battle that will destroy their enemies and give them power over both worlds. Meanwhile, all those who have chosen to side with the Kingdom are preparing to fight and restore peace. With some characters turning out not to be what they first seemed and some being even worse than we thought, the story brings readers to the final moment when one group or the other must emerge victorious.
I loved the world-building that the author put into this story. It is simply fabulous. Whether in the lovely state of Vermont checking into The Griff Inn or on the other side of the door flying some fascinating creature over the desolate plains, the reader is able to feel as if they are actually there with the characters. That, to me, makes the book such a fun one to read…being able to feel like I am really a part of it. The creatures and the different types of other world “technology” (for lack of a better word) that are used to fight are very interesting and add much to the story.
Given the numerous and very different characters, it is an extremely well-written story. With so much going on with the characters all the time, I was impressed that everything came through clearly and I understood all that was happening to everyone throughout the book. The characters, both good and bad, are very well-developed and hold the reader’s attention. The dialogue flows well and keeps the reader glued to the pages, anxious to see what is going to be said or done next.
Tyler Svec’s “Redemption” is a great book that I highly recommend to all fantasy fans out there. While I’m certain it would be beneficial to have read the first two books in the series, it is not a necessity. Thanks to the author’s wonderful brief synopsis of the first books at the beginning of this story, the reader will get the overall idea of what has happened and be able to thoroughly enjoy this final installment from there. I really enjoyed this story and I think you will too. 5 Stars!
Rise of Grimdor Review
Rise of Grimdor by Tyler Svec and Jordan Svec tells the story of a kingdom, Grimdor, on the verge of complete desolation. Centuries ago, while the world was still young, Lathon, an elven king, ruled the entire land. A terrible war divided the land into two factions. One of the kingdoms was ruled by Lathon. The other kingdom, Grimdor, was governed by those who opposed Lathon. The people of Grimdor ultimately corrupted their land with evil, but a prophecy spoke of a savior named Shedaros, who bears Lathon's mark on his hand. This savior will unite the races of elves and men and restore hope and order throughout the kingdoms. Drake Thomas, a man of unknown origin, bears this mark. Mysteriously, Drake lacks all memory of his identity and purpose. But could he be the prophesied Shedaros, Lathon's chosen heir? An ancient entity and the forces of evil stand in his way. Will Drake discover his true destiny before it is too late?
Steeped in adventure, suspense, action, magic, and wonder, this enchanting Christian fantasy will seize readers' attention from beginning to end. Tyler and Jordan Svec have crafted an immersive world filled with authentic and captivating characters. There's a mixture of fae races, elves, dwarfs, spirits, and borags. I enjoyed getting to know the different races, their attributes, and intriguing histories. I like how the authors weaved the theme of good versus evil, and justice versus injustice, into the storyline. Drake and his companions are the very epitome of righteousness and heroism. It was invigorating watching them relentlessly battle the forces of evil. The novel has a Lord of the Rings vibe, which I found inviting and nostalgic. I couldn't put the book down after reading past the first chapter. The plot pulls you in very quickly and presses you to keep reading. If you're a fan of fantasy fiction, Rise of Grimdor will definitely hold your interest throughout.
Steeped in adventure, suspense, action, magic, and wonder, this enchanting Christian fantasy will seize readers' attention from beginning to end. Tyler and Jordan Svec have crafted an immersive world filled with authentic and captivating characters. There's a mixture of fae races, elves, dwarfs, spirits, and borags. I enjoyed getting to know the different races, their attributes, and intriguing histories. I like how the authors weaved the theme of good versus evil, and justice versus injustice, into the storyline. Drake and his companions are the very epitome of righteousness and heroism. It was invigorating watching them relentlessly battle the forces of evil. The novel has a Lord of the Rings vibe, which I found inviting and nostalgic. I couldn't put the book down after reading past the first chapter. The plot pulls you in very quickly and presses you to keep reading. If you're a fan of fantasy fiction, Rise of Grimdor will definitely hold your interest throughout.
Deception of Merderick - Review
Deception of Merderick by Tyler and Jordan Svec is the second volume in the epic fantasy Drake Thomas series and follows the events after Rise of Grimdor. In this bold new adventure, Drake Thomas and his companions find themselves outmatched in a battle against a powerful sorcerer. When their friend Gwen is captured, they retreat into the wilderness of Ariamore under Aiden's guidance to train for the looming war. The reappearance of the enigmatic shopkeeper Isabel, along with ancient relics and secrets, adds new layers of hope and peril. As the Heir of Lathon waits for the right moment to emerge, Drake and his friends are forced to confront their greatest challenges yet.
Author team Tyler and Jordan Svec have once again crafted a suspenseful tale packed with adventure, and the more I read in this exciting series, the more I want to explore it. Their rich world-building transforms the new vistas in Ariamore into a character in its own right, filled with mystical elements and ancient secrets that loom over Drake and his friends with an eerie presence, ready to strike and change the action just when least expected. The pacing is masterful, building tension steadily as the characters prepare for their inevitable confrontations and personal challenges that put them through the emotional wringer. Their talent for character development shines particularly brightly in this installment, as Drake's and Aiden's growth through their training feels both natural and earned, and the descriptions were so visceral that I could feel the strain and toll it took on them. What I found most captivating was how they created such important moments of discovery, both plot-wise and emotionally for the characters, that gave me goosebumps as the larger implications became clear. Overall, Deception of Merderick is a thrilling fantasy novel that proves the Svecs are at the top of their game. I recommend it to fans of brilliantly penned fantasy series.
Author team Tyler and Jordan Svec have once again crafted a suspenseful tale packed with adventure, and the more I read in this exciting series, the more I want to explore it. Their rich world-building transforms the new vistas in Ariamore into a character in its own right, filled with mystical elements and ancient secrets that loom over Drake and his friends with an eerie presence, ready to strike and change the action just when least expected. The pacing is masterful, building tension steadily as the characters prepare for their inevitable confrontations and personal challenges that put them through the emotional wringer. Their talent for character development shines particularly brightly in this installment, as Drake's and Aiden's growth through their training feels both natural and earned, and the descriptions were so visceral that I could feel the strain and toll it took on them. What I found most captivating was how they created such important moments of discovery, both plot-wise and emotionally for the characters, that gave me goosebumps as the larger implications became clear. Overall, Deception of Merderick is a thrilling fantasy novel that proves the Svecs are at the top of their game. I recommend it to fans of brilliantly penned fantasy series.
The Dead Mountains Review
The Dead Mountains by Tyler and Jordan Svec is an epic fantasy novel that follows Drake Thomas and his wife Gwen, who have settled into a peaceful life five years after the defeat of a powerful sorcerer. Their tranquility is disrupted when Aiden, an old ally, invites them on a new adventure. As they journey into dangerous territory, Drake is forced to confront a forgotten secret from his past. With time running out, Drake and his companions must summon all their strength and courage to face an old, formidable enemy in a climactic battle for survival. Author team Tyler and Jordan Svec have created a fantasy world that pulled me in from the very first page, with writing that flows beautifully and keeps readers on the edge of their seats through every twist and turn, of which there are plenty!
The compelling descriptions and masterful pacing make the story feel alive and urgent, filled with cinematic sights that leap straight into readers' imaginations with brilliant clarity. Tyler and Jordan Svec's ability to develop complex characters adds credibility to the intricate world-building as the setting shapes the characters' attitudes. The emotional resonance of the story particularly stands out, as the strong themes of courage and loyalty weave naturally throughout the narrative and inform Drake's choices at every turn. What I found most impressive was how the authors used an up-close, detailed narrative style to balance exciting action sequences with quieter, more introspective moments that let readers see into the characters' hearts and minds, creating a reading experience that lingers long after the final page. Overall, I highly recommend The Dead Mountains to anyone seeking an immersive fantasy adventure that delivers both thrilling action and emotional depth.
The compelling descriptions and masterful pacing make the story feel alive and urgent, filled with cinematic sights that leap straight into readers' imaginations with brilliant clarity. Tyler and Jordan Svec's ability to develop complex characters adds credibility to the intricate world-building as the setting shapes the characters' attitudes. The emotional resonance of the story particularly stands out, as the strong themes of courage and loyalty weave naturally throughout the narrative and inform Drake's choices at every turn. What I found most impressive was how the authors used an up-close, detailed narrative style to balance exciting action sequences with quieter, more introspective moments that let readers see into the characters' hearts and minds, creating a reading experience that lingers long after the final page. Overall, I highly recommend The Dead Mountains to anyone seeking an immersive fantasy adventure that delivers both thrilling action and emotional depth.
Idols & Trinkets - Review
Idols and Trinkets by Tyler and Jordan Svec is an epic fantasy that follows Drake Thomas in the fourth novel in his ongoing series. This time, he and his wife Rachal journey to Rinevah, the nation of his origins, where he confronts his past and reunites with family, friends, and enemies. Simultaneously, Isabel and Morgrin embark on a northern quest, driven by myths and the pursuit of the elusive Durio Helmar. Both storylines are fraught with challenges, decisions, and encounters with unsavory figures. As the characters navigate these trials, they are ultimately called to believe in something greater than themselves. Tyler and Jordan Svec always have a new adventure up their sleeves when it comes to Drake Thomas, and there's remarkable skill in the way they handle parallel storylines that keeps readers completely invested throughout the novel, building new intrigues at every turn.
The immersive world-building brings Rinevah and its surrounding lands into vivid, cinematic life, with rich details about the cultures and landscapes that make the setting feel authentic and lived-in, and show readers how the people living there are shaped by their world. The way the authors handle character development is particularly impressive and deep as a result of this, giving each protagonist distinct challenges that lead to meaningful growth and transformation, and enriching readers' understanding of the cast and what will motivate them in the larger trials ahead. What I also found compelling was the underlying conversation about faith and purpose which was subtly blended into moments of profound reflection amid the excitement, and that makes readers think about their own beliefs and choices, and what they might do when faced with the turmoil Drake, Rachal, Isabel and Morgrin face. Overall, Idols and Trinkets by Tyler and Jordan Svec is a must-read for fantasy lovers who appreciate stories that balance exciting adventure with philosophical depth. I certainly recommend it and the series as a whole.
The immersive world-building brings Rinevah and its surrounding lands into vivid, cinematic life, with rich details about the cultures and landscapes that make the setting feel authentic and lived-in, and show readers how the people living there are shaped by their world. The way the authors handle character development is particularly impressive and deep as a result of this, giving each protagonist distinct challenges that lead to meaningful growth and transformation, and enriching readers' understanding of the cast and what will motivate them in the larger trials ahead. What I also found compelling was the underlying conversation about faith and purpose which was subtly blended into moments of profound reflection amid the excitement, and that makes readers think about their own beliefs and choices, and what they might do when faced with the turmoil Drake, Rachal, Isabel and Morgrin face. Overall, Idols and Trinkets by Tyler and Jordan Svec is a must-read for fantasy lovers who appreciate stories that balance exciting adventure with philosophical depth. I certainly recommend it and the series as a whole.
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