Best of
Epic-Fantasy

2016

Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection


Brandon Sanderson - 2016
    His universe spans the Stormlight Archive, the Mistborn series the tales of Elantris, and others, comprising a unique constellation of vividly imagined realms known as the Cosmere.Now for the first time anywhere, stories representing each of these planets, and their fully realized and distinct magic systems, have been collected in a single spectacular volume. Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection brings together tales spanning the known limits of Sanderson's universe--including the never-before-published Edgedancer, a thrilling new novella of the Stormlight Archive--along with charts, illustrations, notes...and secrets.The Cosmere Collection encompasses six worlds in all, explored across nine astonishing works of short fiction: Sel ("The Hope of Elantris" and The Emperor's Soul); Scadrial ("The Eleventh Metal," "Allomancer Jak and the Pits of Eltania, Episodes Twenty-eight Through Thirty," and Mistborn: Secret History); Taldain ("White Sand"); Threnody (“Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell”); First of the Sun (“Sixth of the Dusk”); and Roshar (Edgedancer).These exciting tales will catapult you onto an unprecedented journey across a cosmos only Brandon Sanderson could have envisioned. Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection is an indispensible volume no Sanderson fan can do without.

Air Awakens Complete Digital Boxed Set (Books 1-5): "Air Awakens", "Fire Falling", "Earth's End", "Water's Wrath", "Crystal Crowned"


Elise Kova - 2016
     Air Awakens, #1 bestselling YA Fantasy, described as, "Avatar: The Last Airbender meets Harry Potter meets Throne of Glass." AIR AWAKENS, BOOK ONE A library apprentice, a sorcerer prince, and an unbreakable magic bond... The Solaris Empire is one conquest away from uniting the continent, and the rare elemental magic sleeping in seventeen-year-old library apprentice Vhalla Yarl could shift the tides of war. Vhalla has always been taught to fear the Tower of Sorcerers, a mysterious magic society, and has been happy in her quiet world of books. But after she unknowingly saves the life of one of the most powerful sorcerers of them all--the Crown Prince Aldrik--she finds herself enticed into his world. Now she must decide her future: Embrace her sorcery and leave the life she's known, or eradicate her magic and remain as she's always been. And with powerful forces lurking in the shadows, Vhalla's indecision could cost her more than she ever imagined. FIRE FALLING, BOOK TWO Soldier... Sorcerer... Savior... Who is Vhalla Yarl? Vhalla Yarl marches to war as property of the Solaris Empire. The Emperor counts on her to bring victory, the Senate counts on her death, and the only thing Vhalla can count on is the fight of her life. As she grapples with the ghosts of her past, new challenges in the present threaten to shatter the remnants of her fragile sanity. Will she maintain her humanity? Or will she truly become the Empire's monster? EARTH'S END, BOOK THREE A woman awoken in air, a soldier forged by fire, a weapon risen from blood. Vhalla Yarl has made it to the warfront in the North. Forged by blood and fire, she has steeled her heart for the final battle of the Solaris Empire’s conquest. The choices before Vhalla are no longer servitude or freedom, they are servitude or death. The stakes have never been higher as the Emperor maintains his iron grip on her fate, holding everything Vhalla still has left to lose in the balance. WATER'S WRATH, BOOK FOUR Librarian turned sorcerer. Sorcerer turned hero. Hero turned puppet. The Solaris Empire found victory in the North and, at the cost of her heart and her innocence, Vhalla Yarl has earned her freedom. But the true fight is only beginning as the secret forces that have been lurking in the shadows, tugging at the strings of Vhalla's fate, finally come to light. Nowhere is safe, and Vhalla must tread carefully or else she'll fall into the waiting arms of her greatest foe. Or former lover. CRYSTAL CROWNED, BOOK FIVE Long live Solaris. One bloodthirsty ruler has been overthrown by another, casting the shadow of death over the Solaris Empire. Vhalla Yarl stands upon the stage of fate, prepared to do battle one final time. Fragile alliances will be tested and new bonds will be formed as the world is reshaped. She fights as the champion of peace, but when the night is darkest will she be able to pay the price of a new dawn?

Secret History


Brandon Sanderson - 2016
    As such, it contains HUGE SPOILERS for the books Mistborn (The Final Empire), The Well of Ascension, and The Hero of Ages. It also contains very minor spoilers for the book The Bands of Mourning. Mistborn: Secret History builds upon the characterization, events, and worldbuilding of the original trilogy. Reading it without that background will be a confusing process at best. In short, this isn’t the place to start your journey into Mistborn. (Though if you have read the trilogy—but it has been a while—you should be just fine, so long as you remember the characters and the general plot of the books.) Saying anything more here risks revealing too much. Even knowledge of this story’s existence is, in a way, a spoiler. There’s always another secret.

Dangerous Ways


R.R. Virdi - 2016
    Virdi.Jonathan Hawthorne has lived over a century beholden to one rule: do not meddle in mortal affairs. He's broken it twice. So when he crosses paths with Cassidy Winters, he's forced to interfere again.Strike three. And the third time's not the charm.Hawthorne is swept along as Cassidy slips through the cracks in reality.And being hunted by bands of monsters doesn't help.To find the answers they need, they'll have to play in a dangerous world. One where the odds and rules are stacked against them. They will have to navigate magical courts, queens and lords all while trying to keep Cassidy out of their scheming hands.If they fail, she will end up a pawn in a plot that will consume them all.Hawthorne will have to face the consequences of his past, and risk his future to ensure Cassidy can have one of her own.For a man with all the time in the world--it seems to be running out--fast! Also by the author: The Dragon Award-nominated urban fantasy series, The Grave Report. (Ongoing)Book one: Grave Beginnings.Book two: Grave Measures.

Dancer's Lament


Ian C. Esslemont - 2016
    The opening chapter in Ian C. Esslemont's epic new fantasy sequence, the Path to Ascendancy trilogy.For ages warfare has crippled the continent as minor city states, baronies, and principalities fought in an endless round of hostilities. Only the alliance of the rival Tali and Quon cities could field the resources to mount a hegemony from coast to coast -- and thus become known as Quon Tali.It is a generation since the collapse of this dynasty and regional powers are once more rousing themselves. Into this arena of renewed border wars come two youths to the powerful central city state that is Li Heng. One is named Dorin, and he comes determined to prove himself the most skilled assassin of his age; he is chasing the other youth -- a Dal Hon mage who has proven himself annoyingly difficult to kill.Li Heng has been guided and warded for centuries by the powerful sorceress known as the "Protectress", and she allows no rivals. She and her cabal of five mage servants were enough to repel the Quon Tali Iron Legions -- what could two youths hope to accomplish under their stifling rule?Yet under the new and ambitious King Chulalorn the Third, Itko Kan is on the march from the south. He sends his own assassin servants, the Nightblades, against the city, and there are hints that he also commands inhuman forces out of legend.While above all, shadows swirl oddly about Li Heng, and monstrous slathering beasts seem to appear from nowhere to run howling through the street. It is a time of chaos and upheaval, and in chaos, as the young Dal Hon mage would say, there is opportunity.

The Dreamblood Duology


N.K. Jemisin - 2016
    Upon its rooftops and amongst the shadows of its cobbled streets wait the Gatherers -- the keepers of this peace. Priests of the dream-goddess, their duty is to harvest the magic of the sleeping mind and use it to heal, soothe... and kill those judged corrupt.But when a conspiracy blooms within Gujaareh's great temple, Ehiru -- the most famous of the city's Gatherers -- must question everything he knows. Someone, or something, is murdering dreamers in the goddess' name, stalking its prey both in Gujaareh's alleys and the realm of dreams. Ehiru must now protect the woman he was sent to kill -- or watch the city be devoured by war and forbidden magic.

The Land Books 1 and 2


Aleron Kong - 2016
     Read the novel that describes the greatest game you've never played. When DangerZone Industries had released the latest and greatest Virtual Reality MMORPG, James, and millions of other virtual reality players, sought purpose and self-definition in this new world. The tag line "Live the life your soul was meant for," captured the hearts and minds of his entire generation. "The Land," was the largest and most dynamic virtual reality game of all time. James and his friends had devoted countless hours to become one of the top teams in the game. None of that mattered after James was actually summoned to The Land. What had been an engrossing game became a daily struggle of life and death. James struggles to survive while becoming embroiled in an age old war between the sprites and goblins, avoiding the machinations of the local king and helping an enslaved woman know freedom once again. Join the sensation! Welcome... to THE LAND!

Age of Myth


Michael J. Sullivan - 2016
    But when a god falls to a human blade, the balance of power between humans and those they thought were gods changes forever.Now only a few stand between humankind and annihilation: Raithe, reluctant to embrace his destiny as the God Killer; Suri, a young seer burdened by signs of impending doom; and Persephone, who must overcome personal tragedy to lead her people. The Age of Myth is over. The time of rebellion has begun.

Blackmark


Jean Lowe Carlson - 2016
    Inked with the Blackmark and despised for it, Elohl uncovers the truth and exposes ancient enemies. Now, he must give everything to shatter the hidden sect that usurps power from the throne. A bloody war will be reaped in the shadows, that will burn nations and bring kings to their knees.This dark and gritty sword and sorcery series from award winning author Jean Lowe Carlson explores a complex world of treachery, passion, sex, and magic. Readers who enjoy George RR Martin's A Game of Thrones, Diana Gabaldon's Outlander, Patrick Rothfuss' Kingkiller Chronicles, or Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time will love this fantastic adventure.

The Powder Mage Novella Collection #1: Stories from the Powder Mage Universe


Brian McClellan - 2016
    Enter a new world or return to see old friends in four Powder Mage Universe novellas featuring Erika, Tamas, Adamat, Taniel, Ka-poel, and Ben Styke.ForswornServant of the CrownMurder at the Kinnen HotelGhosts of the Tristan Basin.

Unsouled


Will Wight - 2016
     Lindon is Unsouled, forbidden to learn the sacred arts of his clan. When faced with a looming fate he cannot ignore, he must defy his family's rules...and forge his own Path.

The White Tower


Michael Wisehart - 2016
    They are never heard from again.After the chaos of the great Wizard Wars nearly a thousand years ago, the people turned their backs on magic. It was deemed evil. Those born with it will stop at nothing to remain hidden.In the north, a young boy is hunted by the Black Watch. Desperate to survive, he turns to the one thing he fears most. Magic. A young girl's affection for him forces her to pick up the sword. Her life may never be the same. In the east, a tortured prisoner vows to escape the White Tower. His sister’s life depends on it. And in the west, a captain fights to protect his king while shielding the woman he loves from the king's son.The world balances on the edge of a blade.Can a handful of wielders manage to change it?The first installment in the Aldoran Chronicles, a new epic fantasy saga filled with magic and monsters, sword and scorcery, heroes, villains, and those in between.

The Crimson Queen


Alec Hutson - 2016
    In the south the Star Towers fell, swallowed by the sea, while the black glaciers descended upon the northern holdfasts, entombing the cities of Min-Ceruth in ice and sorcery. Then from the ancient empire of Menekar the paladins of Ama came, putting every surviving sorcerer to the sword and cleansing their taint from the land for the radiant glory of their lord.The pulse of magic slowed, fading like the heartbeat of a dying man.But after a thousand years it has begun to quicken again.In a small fishing village a boy with strange powers comes of age...A young queen rises in the west, fanning the long-smoldering embers of magic into a blaze once more...Something of great importance is stolen - or freed - from the mysterious Empire of Swords and Flowers...And the immortals who survived the ancient cataclysms bestir themselves, casting about for why the world is suddenly changing...

Ascendant


Craig Alanson - 2016
    They were supposed to tell everyone that he is not a jinx, that all the bad things that happen around him are because he can't control the power inside him, power he doesn't know about. The people of his village, even his parents, are afraid of him, afraid he is cursed. That he is a dangerous, evil jinx. The Wizard's Council didn't tell young Koren, because they know what is best for him. Even after their silent deception destroys his life.Crown Princess Ariana Trehayme will become queen of Tarador on her sixteenth birthday, if her weak, indecisive mother the Regent hasn't allowed their ancient enemy to conquer Tarador before then. Ariana wants her royal army to strike at the enemy, but her mother knows what is best for her, and the realm.Together, Ariana and Koren can save Tarador, if the adults, who know best, will get out of their way.

The Blind Dragon: A Tale from the Canon of Tarn


Peter Fane - 2016
    The dragon foal went still at her voice. Then it snorted and swiveled its snout towards her. Its eyes were still shut. Its tail quivered and its nostrils flared. A menacing growl rose from its chest. “Easy there,” Anna said gently. “Easy.” She placed her palm on its forehead, applying calm, steady pressure between its eyes. The foal went quiet, gave a satisfied snort, and settled back against Nightlove’s flank. And then it opened its eyes. They were big, blank, and sightless. Like white, silvery moons. The baby dragon had been born blind.

Benjamin Ashwood


A.C. Cobble - 2016
    This classic swords and sorcery tale is inspired by Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time and Tolkien's The Hobbit. If you liked them, you will love Benjamin Ashwood.Life is simple in Ben’s small town until an attack brings the arrival of exciting strangers straight out of a story. Before Ben understands what is happening, he embarks on a dangerous journey to help his friends. A mage, demons, thieves and assassins are just a few of the perils he will face while trying to make it to safety. But things aren’t always what they seem and safety is a fragile concept when the destructive behaviors of the powerful are exercised unchecked. In Ben's world - like our own - political, economic and military might create a system to keep the elite in power at the expense of the common man. As the series unfolds and Ben's knowledge and skill grows, he will have to decide if he wants to live within the system, flee from it or break it.

The Wolf of the North


Duncan M. Hamilton - 2016
    Many have made the claim, but few have lived to defend it. Timid, weak, and bullied, Wulfric is as unlikely a candidate as there could be. A chance encounter with an ancient and mysterious object awakens a latent gift, and Wulfric’s life changes course. Against a backdrop of war, tragedy, and an enemy whose hatred for him knows no bounds, Wulfric will be forged from a young boy, into the Wolf of the North. This is his tale.

The Queen's Vow (The Legend of Hooper's Dragons Book 2)


Gary J. Darby - 2016
    Though Vay, the Evil One tastes defeat, her rage and wrath only increases. She thirsts for revenge and vows to find Hooper, the Gem Guardian and Golden Wind to reclaim the golden dragon, and deal death to Hooper for daring to challenge her. The quest continues in book two, Queen’s Vow, as the company seeks a safe haven from Vay’s wrath. But there is no sanctuary. They are the hunted, the pursued. Outcast from all they know, they feel the heavy weight of the condemned just waiting for Death to write the last sentence in their book of life. As the company flees from Vay’s tempest, even Hooper has to question whether one dragon is worth the pain and suffering. Indeed, is a dragon worth dying for, or for that matter, is there ever any one thing worth the ultimate price? For Hooper, it may well be the question that decides his ultimate fate.

Soaring Flame and the Dragon-transcending Magimal


Weiqi Wang - 2016
    The transition from magic to science will be bit by bit, so the early books do read like a "mainstream" magic fantasy.Soarame has a pair of special eyes. He can see magic elements in this world, which are supposed to be invisible. This enviable gift of his could reveal the truth of the world, but it also puts him in danger.Many animals in this world possess magic power, so they are called “magimals” - dragons as examples. Soarame fortunately got a baby magimal as his best friend, but they got into troubles together - troubles that were a lot bigger than dragons.Could they survive?

The Legacy


J.D. Franx - 2016
    There are no exceptions. Pulled by magic and blood sacrifice into a world he can't possibly begin to understand, Kael Symes soon finds himself the focus of a Talohna-wide manhunt. Desperate and trying to stay ahead of ArchWizard Giddeon Zirakus's execution squad, Kael soon discovers that Talohna's ArchWizard may be the least of his worries. An ancient witch coven is also on the hunt for Kael, and they'll stop at nothing to find their messiah first. Trapped far below the earth inside the long-lost Dwarven prison of Arkum Zul, Kael has few allies he can trust. After months of torture and suffering, he is quickly running out of time to recover what was stolen from him: The magic of the DeathWizard. It's his only hope for escape.

The Lyre Thief


Jennifer Fallon - 2016
    If she can just convince her baseborn sister, Charisee, to play along, she might actually get away with it.But there is trouble brewing across the continent. High Prince of Hythria, Damin Wolfblade, must head north to save the peace negotiated a decade ago between the Harshini, Hythria, Fardohnya, Medalon and Karien. He must leave behind an even more dangerous conflict brewing between his wife and his powerful mother, Princess Marla....And in far off Medalon, someone has stolen the music.Their quest for the tiny stolen lyre containing the essence of the God of Music will eventually touch all their lives, threaten everything they hold dear and prove to be far more personal than any of them can imagine.

The Dragon Hunter and the Mage


V.R. Cardoso - 2016
    Both sons of the Empress, but only one of them the son of the Emperor. A decade ago, Fadan's powerful father tore the Empire in two by outlawing the use and practice of magic. Forbidden from seeing each other, Aric and Fadan defy the Emperor and wander the vast Imperial Citadel until one night, they stumble upon an ancient Manual of Magic. They are faced with a choice: take the book straight to the Emperor or see if one of them has the forbidden magical Talent. Their world is turned upside down and the half-brothers find themselves swept away as tragedy and conspiracy separate them, sending each to either end of the Empire. In a world of dark mages, massive creatures, and vengeful gods, one will train as a Dragon Hunter while the other taps into magical powers that could spell his execution. Dark forces are moving in the shadows and no one in the Empire is ready for what’s to come. Will Aric and Fadan survive to ever see each other again?

If A Dragon Cries (The Legend of Hooper's Dragons Book 1)


Gary J. Darby - 2016
    It also says she will save everyone from the catastrophe. Hooper doesn’t believe in such nonsense, but he is about to find out how utterly wrong he is, and so is everyone else on Erdron.Terribly burned by dragon fire, Hooper’s hatred of dragons sears his soul. Yet, it is his lot to work around the foul beasts day and night on a dragon holding. When Golden Wind is born on the farm, Wilders, savage warriors who ride scarlet dragons attack the stead to steal the golden. Hooper is the only one who can save the golden from the Wilders but just before he reaches her; he stops, unable to go on, torn with indecision spurred by his loathing of dragons. As he stands frozen, a tiny wisp of light pushes away his dark hatred and with it, a gentle whisper, but what if the lore is true and only she can rescue us all?If a Dragon Cries is Book One in the fantasy series, The Legend of Hooper’s Dragons. A riveting tale of magic, mystical dragons, and engaging characters, Gary Darby will transport you into in a world where dragons and one young man can destroy or save a world.Buy now and treat your imagination to a feast of epic fantasy on a grand scale! Available both as an audible book and e-book on Amazon..

A Threat of Shadows


J.A. Andrews - 2016
    Now, haunted by his past, Alaric has found one last chance at a cure, hidden in a magical Wellstone buried a century ago. With the help of a handful of quirky companions, the stone—and the cure—are finally within his grasp.But he’s not the only one searching for the Wellstone.His quest grows more perilous as he discovers that his companions are harboring dangerous secrets their own. It becomes almost impossible when he unearths rumors of a gathering shadow threatening the land—whispering of the return of a dark lord, thought to be defeated.To face this enemy, and have any chance of saving his wife, Alaric needs to be the Keeper he used to be, not the broken man he has become.Can he put the failures and pain of his past behind him to stand against the approaching threat? Or, in the face of all the growing shadows, will it be the darkness within himself that destroys everything?

Stonebriar Academy: School for Dragon Riders


Tom Boyhan - 2016
    Jamie and his mother have returned to his mother’s home, Aurellius—a world where dragons, dwarves, elves, and other so-called mythological creatures actually exist. It is a world created by the leader of the Dragons, Dragonith, and his mate, Gwenith. Even though life on Aurellius is not the ideal that Dragonith and Gwenith had envisioned, it is still far better than Earth, where the nine races have wreaked havoc and exploited Earth’s people. But now a movement, led by a group called The Sisterhood, would seize the powerful “Dragon’s Heart” in order to gain total control of Aurellius. Jamie is unwittingly being drawn into this struggle, with his very life at stake. In order to survive, he must learn many skills that he can only learn in Stonebriar Academy. However, competition to enter Stonebriar Academy is grueling, and only one hundred students will be granted admission. And gaining admission is Jamie’s only hope if he is to survive against the Sisterhood. Jamie desperately wants to be admitted to Stonebriar, not only to give himself a fighting chance against the Sisterhood but also so that he might learn something that a few short months ago he didn’t even know existed—how to fly with a Dragon.

Flametouched


Brian K. Fuller - 2016
    Creating living carvings is an odd and troublesome gift for a humble clerk trying to uncover a plot against his beloved nation, Bittermarch. But like the hidden conspirators he's trying to expose, Davon guards a secret--he wasn't always a clerk. Once a nobleman and a Baron, Davon faked his own death to escape his cruel marriage. Davon wants a quiet life, but the Queen orders her new clerk to delve into the affairs of the lovely Lady Hightower to uncover the truth about the mysterious plot. He discovers that powerful and prestigious conspirators don't like meddlesome clerks, and Davon must dodge bullets and increasing scrutiny, fearing the exposure of his past life. As the clues fall into place, Davon finds that the fate of Bittermarch and the Eternal Flame itself are in his flame-branded hands.

Michelle’s Case Files


N.E. Conneely - 2016
     In “Trouble in the Neighborhood,” Rodriguez calls Michelle when he gets reports of a creature frightening children. Together they must neutralize the monster before it does more than scare someone. In “Leather and Fire,” what starts as a normal day gets strange when Michelle is called out to a farm in Pickens. It turns out you never know what magical creatures are living just down the road. In “Vacation Magic,” Michelle faces wildlife that found themselves at the wrong end of a spell and discovers that not everything is what it seems.

Spiderlight


Adrian Tchaikovsky - 2016
    The great prophecy has foretold that a band of misfits, led by a high priestess will defeat the Dark Lord Darvezian, armed with their wits, the blessing of the Light and an artifact stolen from the merciless Spider Queen.Their journey will be long, hard and fraught with danger. Allies will become enemies; enemies will become allies. And the Dark Lord will be waiting, always waiting…Spiderlight is an exhilarating fantasy quest from Adrian Tchaikovsky, the author of Guns at Dawn and the Shadows of the Apt series.

Honor Bound Trilogy Box Set


Jon Kiln - 2016
     Captain Berengar is returning to his home village to enjoy a quiet retirement. He is accompanied by his trusted sword-brother and lieutenant, Nisero. Unbeknownst to Berengar, a local bandit leader has razed the village, killing his wife and son, and kidnapping his daughter. Berengar, with the help of Nisero, will go to the ends of the earth to bring her back. And nothing will stand in his way. Contains all three books in the series: Forsaken Betrayal Dominion

Voices of Blood


Jill Williamson - 2016
    As a flock, they sail north into the unknown in hopes of finding land that might become their new home. As the king's illness worsens, Sâr Wilek takes authority over the expedition and struggles to rule the disjointed people, while assassination attempts, vicious serpents, and dark magic endanger his life.One prophecy has come to pass, but another looms dauntingly in the future. Who is this Deliverer? And if the Magonians have him, what might that mean for the realm of Armania?

Fire Sower


Callie Kanno - 2016
    It was a chance to bring prosperity to his family’s farm. But something was waiting there among the gold and jewels—something that would take him from the safety of his home and change his life forever.

An Ominous Book


Nancy Foster - 2016
    The perfectly stable life of the elusive mortal elf that rules the Kasimma Clan has ended up in haywire when his best friend Trevilin left two unwanted guests at his doorstep one autumn day: two orphan children from a disgraced noble family that just happen to be his long lost blood relatives named Richard and Nelida Earlrose. Spaulding must now find the way to bring these two children back to their nation and along the way, destroy a dangerous piece of sorcery that is hidden in his castle before King Salman and the Aimite guard find out.

The Dragon and the Scholar Saga


H.L. Burke - 2016
    Inexperienced but determined, the young scholar, Shannon, answers a call to heal a king wounded by dragons - and pokes her own head into a nearby dragon's lair. She finds an unexpected kindred spirit in Gnaw, a sarcastic dragon with his own agenda. With a crude knight fixing to lop off the dragon's head, Shannon works against her royal employer to keep Gnaw's head at the end of his neck, instead of displayed over the palace gate. Now she and Gnaw must face wicked knights, flying monsters that steal memories, a prince determined to marry Shannon, and ultimately, the curse of the Dragon itself. Includes Dragon's Curse Dragon's Debt Dragon's Rival

The Chronicles of Aurion


Tiger Hebert - 2016
    But some believe that it is time for their return.Two drakari priests embark on a quest to recover a long lost artifact that they believe has the power to do just that.As they hunt down the powerful Elder Stones, they must dig into its bloody past to unlock its secrets—and its power.This novella is a prequel to Dragon's Fire, Beating Back the Darkness, Book 1.Recommended Reading OrderDragon's FireThe Chronicles of AurionThe Halls of the Fallen KingTales from Darkness.

Maelstrom


Jill Williamson - 2016
    As a flock, they sail north into the unknown in hopes of finding land that might become their new home. As the king's illness worsens, Sâr Wilek takes authority over the expedition and struggles to rule the disjointed people, while assassination attempts, vicious serpents, and dark magic endanger his life.One prophecy has come to pass, but another looms dauntingly in the future. Who is this Deliverer? And if the Magonians have him, what might that mean for the realm of Armania?

The Cracked Amulet


R.B. Watkinson - 2016
    She sighed.”Against a background of failing states, magik, and spirits, Coryn and Katleya lose all they have and must flee all they know. Coryn, protected by a cracked amulet, must find his sister and fulfill an oath. Katleya, with just her wits and her knives to defend herself, for her Wealdan allows her to only see the magical Wefan, is desperate to reach a Haven where she can learn to use her power fully. But she is hunted by those meaning to use her for terrible purposes of their own.A story as intricate and as powerful as any Weaving of the Wefan.

Kingdom at Sea


Jill Williamson - 2016
    As a flock, they sail north into the unknown in hopes of finding land that might become their new home. As the king's illness worsens, Sâr Wilek takes authority over the expedition and struggles to rule the disjointed people, while assassination attempts, vicious serpents, and dark magic endanger his life.One prophecy has come to pass, but another looms dauntingly in the future. Who is this Deliverer? And if the Magonians have him, what might that mean for the realm of Armania?

The Horse Dreamer


Marc Secchia - 2016
    In seconds, Zaranna’s world is torn apart and she must start life anew, as a survivor. A double amputee. Yet why does this promising equestrienne remember a flash of sulphurous fire, and a crimson paw hurling her mother’s car onto the train tracks? Why does a tide of beguiling butterflies flood her increasingly chaotic dreams? As Zaranna Inglewood adjusts to life minus legs, plus gorgeous Alex, the paramedic who cut her body from the wreckage, she learns the terror of being hunted. Relentless and inimical, the enemy lures her to a world where dreams shape reality. Equinox. A world of equinoctial storms; lashed by titanic forces of magic, dominated by the Pegasi and their centuries-old enmity with Human Wizards and the Dragons. This is a world where a girl can Dream her destiny. Where her soul can fly, or be chained forever. She is Zaranna, the Horse Dreamer. Survivor. Fighter. A girl who doesn’t need legs to kick an evil fate in the teeth. All she needs is courage–the courage to Dream.

From a Broken Land (The Broken Throne #1)


William R. Herr - 2016
    Gidon is a simple messenger, sent on a mission he is never expected to survive. Through coincidence, fate, or something stronger, they are brought together—bound to each other.But, deep within the shadows and mist, a wicked and threatening force watches them. Gidon must protect the girl, his men, and himself from a force and presence he cannot explain. Together, they are thrust into war, intrigue, and impossible love, never realizing that their lives are part of a larger, and darker, plan.

The Wars of Light and Shadow Books 1-3


Janny Wurts - 2016
    Only the combined powers of two half-brothers can challenge the Mistwraith’s stranglehold: Arithon, Master of Shadow and Lysaer, Lord of Light.Arithon and Lysaer will find that they are inescapably bound inside a pattern of events dictated by their own deepest convictions. Yet there is more at stake than one battle with the Mistwraith – as the sorcerers of the Fellowship of Seven know well. For between them the half-brothers hold the balance of the world, its harmony and its future, in their hands.Critical Praise‘Astonishingly original and compelling… A gifted creator of wonder’RAYMOND E. FEIST‘Janny Wurts builds beautiful castles in the air … where every detail is richly imagined and vividly rendered’DIANA GABALDON‘It ought to be illegal for one person to have so much talent’STEPHEN DONALDSON —

Ubel Blatt, Vol. 5


Etorouji Shiono - 2016
    Using his special dispensation from the emperor to his advantage, Lebellond claims the land and demands that the tribes demonstrate their allegiance by delivering to him the hero-killing rebel from their midst. The air above Jebr is thick with Lebellond's military airships and dragon riders, and the people are wary of rousing the wrath of a man with Lebellond's cruel history. Will Köinzell make an ally of the tribes of Jebr, or will they be his undoing?!An epic fantasy on the grandest of scales!

At Any Cost


Kate Sparkes - 2016
    A powerful king with everything to lose. An ill-fated love that would change their worlds forever. **For details on reading order or to sign up for the author's newsletter to receive this title free, visit www.katesparkes.com**

Flames to the Beast


M.A. Levi - 2016
    Distraught over the death of his rouge brother-in-law, there in the darkness a figure emerged. An ally turned foe, commanding leader of the Holy army in the Order of St. Michael- Keller glorified in murdering one of Eli's own kin after he exposed him as a werewolf. With fur as black as the night, Eli remained unseen in the shadows as he listened to Keller make a vow so vile, he dared to enact the words of an ancient and feared prophecy of his people: Flames to the Beast. In the first installment of the Beast Trilogy, escape with Eli and Roslyn Santos from the clutches of a Half-born and his corrupted army on this fast paced journey to Michigan to gather their strongest ally, George 'Quicksilver' Crownwelm, and take it upon themselves to start a legacy as a means to protect themselves and ensure the existence of their werewolf brethren known in the second prophecy as Beast Bloods.

Of Life and Love (The Silver Dolphins Saga, #1)


M.M. Scott - 2016
    With no place being safer or more tolerant, she remains on the Island of Delphi praying for change. Prince Justin Arisdale has everything others desire; wealth, status, and power; however, something is missing from this young Velociraptor’s life. The burden of his born duty, the hatred between humans and his fellow elder races, and his dangerous earth magic weigh heavily on his mind. Life on the continent of Flourisha has been peaceful for thousands of years, despite the old wounds that humans bear from mistreatment in the past. The gods have been silent even though prayers still resound; however, everything changed the day a prophet arrived with a dire warning for Miral. With the rising sun of a new day, the unfathomable horrors of the prophecy descended upon the island leaving a trail of fear, distrust, and paranoia. In her desperation to leave, she has an unexpected encounter with Prince Justin Arisdale that forever changes her life. The fate of the world lies in the hands of the eight Elementals of Light, powerful beings who each command their own element. A daunting task as their devious foe from the prophecy remains one step ahead of the heroes. An adrenaline-driven, magical, romantic journey, The Silver Dolphins Saga captures the essence of what it means to live a life in the light of love.

The Queen and the Dagger


Melanie Ansley - 2016
    Indigo, a rabbit princess of Alvareth, is on the cusp of inheriting the throne from her aunt, the Regent, who has ruled the northern steppes since Indigo’s mother and sister were killed years ago. When the Order, a society dedicated to fighting Pacification, asks Indigo to join their amassing army, her future seems clear: lead her queendom against the humans, and find the one who killed her mother and sister. But the day of Indigo’s initiation goes horribly wrong: Pacification has already arrived in Alvareth, and the Regent seizes the opportunity to take the crown. Threatened with the loss of both her throne and her dreams of revenge, Indigo must defeat her one time mentor and aunt if she is to save her queendom--and her future.

Ancient Enemies


Tora Moon - 2016
    A terrifying prophecy. One woman’s courage is the world’s only hope… Rizelya, using her fire magic, battles the fearsome monsters constantly attacking her people. They are finally winning the struggle when a new, more ferocious monster suddenly appears jeopardizing her people’s survival. Rizelya must race against time to discover innovative ways to combat the beasts before her world is overrun. Assaulted by horrific visions of a mysterious enemy behind the monster attacks, Rizelya must learn the truth about this ancient enemy. Why do they want to annihilate her people?

Consequences Within Chaos


Derek Barton - 2016
    This is an updated cover edition of ASIN B01LYT2OS9.With a devastating war looming on the horizon for Wyvernshield, can its people place their faith and fate in the hands of a ruler who cannot distinguish between reality and fantasy? How far into the depths of insanity would you go to prove your sanity?

The Academy Journals First Trilogy Box Set: Books 1-3 of the Academy Journals


Garrett Robinson - 2016
     At the age of six, Ebon Drayden discovered he was an alchemist—a wizard who can transform matter with a simple touch. But his father forbade him to use his magic, and kept him from attending the Academy where he could learn to use it. Just before his seventeenth birthday, Ebon’s aunt enrolls him in the Academy against his father's wishes. Now at last he has the chance to use the magic he has so desperately yearned to control. But his family's dark name plagues him. His very presence terrifies the other students. Teachers regard him with suspicion. And before long, he is drawn into a scheme that spans all the nine kingdoms of Underrealm. THE ALCHEMIST'S TOUCH (Book 1) Distrusted by his fellow students and spurned by his instructor, Ebon is drawn into one of his family's shadowy schemes. It begins innocently enough—a package delivered to a tavern in the dead of night—but soon even his own kin suspect him of playing both sides against the middle. His only allies are two other outcasts within the citadel. With their help, he hopes to uncover the truth of the conspiracy—but his family's cruel bodyguard may not have Ebon's best interests at heart. THE MINDMAGE’S WRATH (Book 2) The High King’s Seat reels from a devastating attack. Those within the Academy attempt to resume their studies, all the while haunted by the empty chairs of those who died in the fighting. But the Academy is not yet safe. A murder shocks students and instructors alike to the core. And while the faculty hunt for the culprit, Ebon senses another fatal conspiracy brewing in the very bowels of the citadel. Someone has been stealing artifacts of immeasurable power, and only Ebon and his friends have any hope of stopping them. THE FIREMAGE’S VENGEANCE (Book 3) The Academy killer has escaped, and now holds the Dean’s son captive. Ebon and his friends want to save the boy—but their danger is even more personal, for the killer desires revenge against them. As the Dean grows increasingly suspicious of Ebon himself in the kidnapping, and the recent murders, he must play a deadly game of cat and mouse. For if anyone discovers the secret that Theren is forced to hide, it will mean a slow death under the knives of Mystics for Ebon and all his friends… Grab your box set now and save 40% off buying the individual books!

For Crown and Kingdom


Grace Draven - 2016
    She did her part to pull him off the High Throne. But his daughter, the would-be Queen, and her sisters must still tame their conquest. If her victory is to last, Dafne must forge peace with the subtle, ruthless methods of a diplomat--and the worst memories of her life... The Undying King by Grace DravenThe stories are told in whispers, even after so long: of a man whose fair rule soured when he attained eternal youth. Imprisoned by a sorceress wife in a city out of time and place, he has passed into legend. Few believe in him, and fewer would set their hopes on his mercy. But Imogen has no choice. To break the curse that's isolated her since birth, she'll find the Undying King--and answer his secrets with her own... ^^Author Note: The Undying King is intended for more mature audiences and contains graphic descriptions of physical intimacy.

Shattered Dreams


Ulff Lehmann - 2016
    Drangar Ralgon has been avoiding the abyss's gaze for far too long and now he turns to face it. For a hundred years the young kingdom of Danastaer has thrived in peace. Now their northern neighbor, mighty Chanastardh, has begun a cunning invasion. Thrust into events far beyond his control, the mercenary Drangar Ralgon flees his solitary life as a shepherd to evade the coming war and take responsibility for his crimes. In Dunthiochagh, Danastaer's oldest city, the holy warrior Kildanor uncovers the enemy's plans for invasion. As ancient forces reach forth to shape the world once more, the sorceress Ealisaid wakes from a century of hibernation only to realize the Dunthiochagh she knew is no more. Magic, believed long gone, returns, and with it comes an elven wizard sent to recover a dangerous secret.

The Blade and the Bow


Mike Shelton - 2016
     Kelln El’Han is the Blade, the adventure-loving son of Anikari’s most famous sword maker. Darius San Williams is the Bow, the son of King Edward’s first councilor. In this prequel novella to the Young Adult/Teen fantasy series, The Cremelino Prophecy, the reader is introduced to Darius and Kelln three years prior to the start of the series. Kelln’s love for adventure and Darius’s desire to protect the Realm seem to always get the two young men in trouble with Darius’s father. After witnessing a glimpse of magic in a small cabin in the woods, the two are thrust into one of their most fantastic adventures yet. Read this fun and exciting novella either before or after the three books of The Cremelino Prophecy.

Cloak of the Two Winds


Jack Massa - 2016
    But when Lonn leads his crew away from the hunt to pursue his dream of a treasure ship, they find more than an easy bit of piracy.  The ship belongs to the witch Amlina, and after the Iruks carry off her possessions, they are robbed in turn. Worse, one of their band is taken--Glyssa, the woman Lonn loves.To rescue her, the Iruks must join forces with Amlina on a perilous voyage far from the seas they know. To Lonn and his mates, nothing matters but saving Glyssa. But Amlina knows much more is at stake. Among her possessions is an object of ancient power. In the wrong hands, the Cloak of the Two Winds can unravel the age-old magic that keeps the world from chaos.

Thieves & Wizards


Jaxon Reed - 2016
    Ideal for assassinating wizards, it’s been missing for centuries until it shows up in the library of a mysterious collector. Now an exceptional thief has stolen it.A young princess endures harsh training to become the ultimate weapon of war: a battlemaiden. And a crown prince snatched from a bloody palace coup is raised in secrecy while a wizard grooms him for the day he reclaims the throne. When a rogue wizard sends an army to recover the Forlorn Dagger, they unite in an attempt to thwart evil, defeat dark magic, and save the realm.

Devotion


Katika Schneider - 2016
     Or so the young General Nessix Teradhel had always believed. Abandoned by her god and caught in a political trap with her late father's old comrade, Nessix had barely kept herself together even before these startling reports appeared. But now Mathias Sagewind, the fabled White Paladin, has arrived on her quiet island nation of Elidae with confirmation of such terrors. Wielding the name of the Mother Goddess and divine strength not seen in years, he is Elidae's best chance at victory. In the wake of a holy war, Nessix must learn to trust Mathias as he attempts to guide her from a troubled past and protect her from a tragic future.

Ubel Blatt, Vol. 4


Etorouji Shiono - 2016
    For the memory of the countless men who died helping them, these four fought on, only to be betrayed by the seven who would let that sacrifice be in vain. This, then, is the root of Köinzell's rage: that the whole empire was deceived into placing its trust in seven cowards, that betrayal and lies fed their ascent to power. As Köinzell reflects on the past, rumors abound that Ascheriit has reappeared to protect the people. The remaining heroes are forced to consider their history as well as their next move should Ascheriit come hunting them next...!An epic fantasy on the grandest of scales!

Hand of the Trickster


Mike Reeves-McMillan - 2016
    Since the War of Gods, the high gods have grown silent and distant. The Trickster, though, is still at large in the world, humbling the exalted and exalting the humble. And the Hand of the Trickster is the thief called Now You Don't. He and his new crew are up for any challenge, whether it's stealing a book from Wisdom's library, dealing with a dark remnant from the War of Gods, or slipping the Grim Spear of the Inexorable Hand of Justice back into the heavily-guarded Justice Temple before it can be missed. But can they truly rely on each other? Or will a tragic secret cause their most dangerous heist to fall apart?Includes two bonus short stories, "Lock and Key" and "Wearing the Hat," previously published in The Sockdolager. Total word count: 41,000.

The Quest for Hope


A.S. King - 2016
    As the true High King attempts to rally his forces, crystalline beings move among mortals, seen and heard only by those specially attuned to their existence. One of the Erela stands supreme above all the rest. Known as the Dark One, Zohar has all but succeeded in erasing the name of the High King from the hearts and minds of everyone in Novus. It is now up to the rest of the Erela to stop his wrath.In an unknown community tucked away in a hidden valley, an Erela recruits a young apprentice to help carry out their important mission. As Levi embarks on a dangerous quest to fetch a princess and bring her to Zion to fulfill her destiny, she is struggling to understand why she has been chosen to be the new Queen of Novus. After twelve-year-old Aliatta learns the truth about her identity, her life intertwines with Levi's. As the pair begins the long trek to Zion, they have no idea that the Dark One's fury has just begun.The Quest for Hope begins an exciting saga of good versus evil as a young apprentice and a princess journey through a perilous land so she can fulfill her purpose to become their new queen.

Runaway Deception (Royal Deception, #2)


Denae Christine - 2016
    She never wanted to be the Princess.After the death of his father, the King of Arton, Symon is on the run from his own people. He forges a new identity as an outlaw who opposes the persecution of animal shifters. Despite facing pirates, thieves, and slavers, Symon’s biggest struggle will be forgiving himself.As Arton’s new heir, twelve-year-old Lana is thrust into court life. She mourns for Symon, but she soon realizes that his loss puts her, and the kingdom, in danger. When Regent Ozar threatens animal shifters, Lana goes undercover to protect citizens of Arton.Both Symon and Lana will have to decide whether justice is worth fighting for . . . or even killing for.

World-Building From the Inside Out


Janeen Ippolito - 2016
     -Explore different religions and governments with concise entries that include ideas for plot and character development -Develop key aspects of your society without getting caught up in unnecessary details -Learn how the deeper effects of appearance and location can enhance your narrative World-Building From the Inside Out challenges you to go deep and build fantastical worlds that truly bring your story to life!

The Waking Fire


Anthony Ryan - 2016
    R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire novels.”* Now, Anthony Ryan begins a new saga, The Draconis Memoria...Throughout the vast lands controlled by the Ironship Syndicate, nothing is more prized than the blood of drakes. Harvested from the veins of captive or hunted Reds, Green, Blues and Blacks, it can be distilled into elixirs that give fearsome powers to the rare men and women who have the ability harness them—known as the blood-blessed. But not many know the truth: that the lines of drakes are weakening. If they fail, war with the neighboring Corvantine Empire will follow swiftly. The Syndicate's last hope resides in whispers of the existence of another breed of drake, far more powerful than the rest, and the few who have been chosen by fate to seek it. Claydon Torcreek is a petty thief and an unregistered blood-blessed, who finds himself pressed into service by the protectorate and sent to wild, uncharted territories in search of a creature he believes is little more than legend. Lizanne Lethridge is a formidable spy and assassin, facing gravest danger on an espionage mission deep into the heart of enemy territory. And Corrick Hilemore is the second lieutenant of an ironship, whose pursuit of ruthless brigands leads him to a far greater threat at the edge of the world. As lives and empires clash and intertwine, as the unknown and the known collide, all three must fight to turn the tide of a coming war, or drown in its wake. *Library Journal

The Spirit Well (Legends of Windemere, #12)


Charles E. Yallowitz - 2016
    Only one problem: the Compass Key refuses to work with Dariana, who long ago wiped all memories of the Spirit Well from her mind. Now, they are forced to follow a trail of clues that Dariana’s former self left behind centuries ago. It is a path that will lead the champions into a part of their friend’s past that could tear them all apart.Will the bonds of friendship be stronger than the call of blood?

Moonfall


Matthew Allen - 2016
    Things get out of control and they accidentally start a war. Now they must fight to save the kingdom that rejected them.

Beneath the Shining Jewel


Balogun Ojetade - 2016
     Mba, a retired constable, is called back to active duty to deal with a situation that still haunts him twenty years later. Mba and a host of characters battle a scourge that once ravaged the city and may be poised to return. Beneath the Shining Jewel is both familiar and unique, combining African folklore with a good dose of horror and action adventure. Sword and Soul - African-inspired Heroic and Epic Fantasy - has been taken in a new and thrilling direction with Beneath the Shining Jewel, a tale that will have you riveted from beginning to end.

Fallen Light


Benjamin A. Sorensen - 2016
    The Lady. The Raven. The Whispering One.They’re all coming for Mordinion.

Legends of Perilisc


Jesse Teller - 2016
    Journey deeper into its history. Struggles of royalty, immortal love, unruly wizards, lost heroes, blistering vendettas and more, provide gripping insight into the scope of this realm.

Mage of Chaos (The Black Dream Book 3)


Celina Summers - 2016
     The Eleusis has escalated in intensity, when the minor heirs of three kingdoms, including Tamsen’s, vanish from their homes. In order to find them, Tamsen and Brial must find the way to the dream realm where once the dead god Phobetor ruled alongside his brothers. Before long, they must lead an army of living souls to defend the realm of the dead from elder gods, overthrown millennia ago by the current ruling pantheon. With all five realms now in conflict, the situation is deteriorating fast. The mortal realm cannot survive a full-out war between the gods. For Tamsen, a succession of personal tragedies is beginning to take its toll, amplified by the destruction of her strength and the desperation of her task. Can she find another ally to bolster her quest? Or will she fail into the enemy’s trap alone?