Literary Titans Reviews

5 Star Review - SHAMERA

Shamera by T.S. James is an engaging fantasy novel that skilfully intertwines elements of magic, mystery, and adventure, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. The story begins with Shamera, a character-driven by aspirations of becoming an apprentice, who finds himself in an unexpected situation when a menacing sorceress kidnaps the revered Great Verazslo. This event propels Shamera into a race against time, where he must swiftly master mystical arts to rescue the Elvenii during the fleeting Blood Moon.

The narrative’s strength lies in its ability to weave a tapestry of intriguing facts and legends into the storyline, enriching the reader’s experience. The author’s skilful use of names adds a layer of mystery, encouraging readers to discover the nuances and subtleties hidden within the text. This careful construction of the world and its lore makes Shamera a compelling read, with each chapter increasing readers’ anticipation. As the story unfolds, we see Shamera’s emotional journey from grief and anger to forgiveness, a testament to the novel’s depth beyond its fantastical elements. The introduction of Elithrin as a guiding figure in Shamera’s journey adds a layer of thematic richness. The plot takes an intriguing turn with a time travel element that brings characters back to the era of King Arthur, blending historical and fantasy elements in a unique and captivating way.

T.S. James demonstrates remarkable storytelling ability in Shamera. The novel’s intricate details, clever narrative twists, and the allure of hidden knowledge make it a compelling read for those interested in a world where magic and mystery coexist. As the first book in a trilogy, Shamera sets a high bar, leaving readers eager to continue this enchanting series.

4 Star Review - RAVENSWOOD

Ravenswood plunges readers into the eerie world of a decaying asylum, where a team of paranormal investigators embarks on a chilling journey. At the centre of the story is Stephen, a sceptic dragged along to challenge his disbelief in the supernatural. As the tale unfolds, Stephen is faced with more than he bargained for, and by the end, the book hits all the familiar beats of a classic horror movie, for better or worse.

Right from the start, Ravenswood excels at what it sets out to do as a horror story. The pacing mirrors that of a well-crafted horror film, starting slow and steadily building toward heart-pounding intensity. As the tension mounts, so too does the fear, dread, and sheer terror. The true star of the story, though, is Ravenswood Asylum itself. It looms large as the perfect villain, its atmosphere thick with menace and mystery. The asylum is vividly described, its every creak and shadow brought to life in a way that avoids falling into overused horror tropes. It stands as a fully realized, terrifying setting that adds depth to the story and elevates the scares. Like many modern horror films, Ravenswood places its focus more on the concept and setting, which results in a strong atmospheric experience. Stephen, the protagonist, does undergo some character growth, which adds depth to his role, though the real emphasis of the story is on the paranormal intrigue. The supporting cast, while serving specific roles in the plot, effectively helps to keep the focus on the eerie atmosphere and the unfolding mystery. By the end, the introduction of new characters adds a fresh layer of excitement, helping to propel the narrative forward and offering dynamic ways to resolve the group’s dire situation. The process of summoning the primary antagonist, a demon, is deliberately simple, relying on a sceptic, a chant, and minimal ritual elements, which enhances the story’s accessibility and draws readers into the tension quickly. Dispelling the demon, in contrast, requires much more effort, emphasizing teamwork and belief from all involved. This shift in difficulty adds a layer of complexity that keeps readers engaged. Familiar with the horror genre, this structure creates anticipation and a sense of challenge, leaving readers invested in seeing how the characters will overcome the escalating stakes.

Ravenswood is an engaging and atmospheric horror novel that successfully captures the essence of classic supernatural thrillers. Its chilling setting, combined with a steadily building sense of dread, creates an immersive experience that horror fans will appreciate. While the focus leans more on the eerie concept and paranormal intrigue, the journey is filled with tension and suspense, keeping readers on edge from start to finish. With its blend of supernatural scares, intriguing twists, and a truly haunting setting, Ravenswood is a thrilling read that delivers plenty of excitement for fans of the genre.