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Every month, we share our book recommendations with you. From readers picks to bestsellers, from new reads to critically acclaimed books across all genres, we have something for all book lovers, no matter what you’re into. 

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'The Temptation of Dragons'

This was an expertly written story by novelist Chrys Cymri. 'The Temptation of Dragons' grabbed me quickly and kept me involved throughout. From talking dragons and unicorns, to a religious undertone, it may seem over complicated at times but the author did a masterful job of developing each character and that allowed me to keep track of who was who. The synopsis provided on the back cover fills in many of the spaces without destroying the mystery of the story. At times funny, this female version of Dr. Who meets Harry Potter is a great fantasy read to start your new year.

'LandQuaker'

Author Dean Wilson is writing books I’ve always wanted to read - steampunk with actual emotions and true character development. The forth book in the Great Iron War series, Landquaker is by far the best. I've been following this whole series with great enjoyment as they're filled with the perfect mix of adventure, mystery & war! Once again the characters in this book are great. For example, a wonderful new addition to the cast of is Nox - a conjuring cowboy full of surprises. With prose that is silver smooth this story is truly full of "Hope" ;)

'The Cogs of Alusura'

This steam punk adventure "The Cogs of Alusura"  by Sidney Lotto, tells the take of when a princess becomes Queen after the murder of her parents, and then she and her husband set out to find the killers. The problem I had with this book is the spelling and grammar. The reason why spelling and grammar are so important is because they portray a book in a manner that focuses the reader on the plot and the enjoyment of the story. Authors would want to display care and attention to detail by using correct spelling and proper grammar. These are all valuable traits that readers look for in a good book. That being said, the story was good and I'd expect better in the future from this author. I received this book as part of a book club in exchange for my unbiased, honest review. 3/5

'Children of Swan'

Once I started reading Children of Swan by Coral Walker, I didn't really know what to expect. It follows the story of Jack and Brianna who wake up one morning to find their parents have disappeared to a distant planet. It was an interesting read and quite entertaining. Although aimed at YA readers, there is some violence and desperation mixed in. However, sometimes the story gets bogged down with clichés. That been said this book is exciting and has a great collection of characters. I would definitely recommend it to other sci-fi fans! So am I going to continue reading this series? Yes! Especially after the way this one ended!

'Hero of My Dreams'

'Hero of My Dreams' by J.R. Pitts focuses on the princess of a peace loving planet (Arklardin). She is forced to fight for the freedom of her people against the evil Lord of Zharburk. This book has fantasy with intrigue, and romance with adventure. Written in an easy to read style, this book proves what a born storyteller J.R. Pitts is, because the entire driving force behind the book is the fact that it is unashamedly a fantasy story. With vivid atmosphere deftly brought to life, the author's writing goes beyond creating a story in our minds; it truly feels like you’re walking in their footsteps. The fact that he manages to blend Sci-fi with the Medieval seamlessly is even more spectacular. The attention to detail only serves to make this story even more enjoyable. Can an earthling prove worthy of a princess' love. Can a princess find the hero of her dreams? Open this book to find out.

'Born To Magic'

A good story will sell itself on each page, without having to rush along as if the reader has the attention span of a goldfish. It's subtly evident from the beginning that Born To Magic is worth reading. A sci-fi and fantasy story showing an humanity with Paranormal abilities enabling them to battle the horror of their past. With prose that is crisp and clear, the pages seem to turn themselves. The main characters Areenna and Mikaal work well together in the usual boy/girl ways, but this is more than a tale of love or loss, it is a tale of hardship and redemption, with some uncertain triumphs over evil. Readers can't go wrong here; pick it up. 

'The Woman of the Void'

I have already read the author's Kota series, set in a futuristic apocalyptic world and any who loved that series will love 'The Woman of the Void'. A short story with characters that are both colourful and intriguing. The descriptions are imaginative and vivid and the story kept me entertained the whole way through with never a dull moment. I do enjoy the author's writing style, so I'm look forward to she if she can write well in a different genre. 

'Shatterworld'

'Shatterworld' by Lelia Rose Foreman feels like YA sci-fi, though the writing does lend itself to younger readers. It had a strong, enjoyable narrative and nicely balanced dialogue. There was some religious aspects but nothing is rammed down your throat, or portrayed in a cringing fashion. There was a wonderful slow build of suspense to the final showdown, with action of all kinds in the sub-plots. Overall, it was an easy read with an interesting cast of characters. I think there’s appeal for both young teens and curious adults. Also there are some mind-bending concepts as well, so expect to be intrigued and puzzled :)

'The Ice Orphan of Ganymede'

'The Ice Orphan of Ganymede' by author Leonardo Ramirez tells the tale of a sister and brother, named Callie and Ian, who travel to Jupiter in search of a cure. A steampunk series for children, this is the second book in the "Jupiter Chronicles". Readers who delighted in Leonardo Ramirez's first book will be entranced by the familiar cast and usual wit of the characters. Behind this delightful fantasy story is a great deal of heart and soul. I read this aloud with my son, and he liked it almost as much as I did! I loved this book for its fast-paced action, charming characters, and being enjoyable to two generations at the same time.

'Julia, Skydaughter'

'Julia, Skydaughter' by Robin Wyatt Dunn was a delightful satirical romp. I am invariably drawn to unique covers, fascinated with the author's imagining of what they want to present the world. Under the cover was a quick and captivating read that packs a punch. Great characters and "believable" sifi :P and that is why it was such a delight to read. This short story is not without its flaws, but they are minor flaws on a near-perfect diamond that doesn't diminish the beautiful entertainment value of the book. Good job Robin, can't wait to read some more! 

'Born To Magic'

There are other dystopian novels out there and I have found that there is quite a bit that can be done with a post-apocalyptic world. However, author David Wind has come up with one of the most intriguing and original story lines for a book that I have come across in a long time. Part science fiction, part fantasy and part horror, 'Born To Magic' is a futuristic fantasy where the world of Nevaeh jumps off from the first page. The author writes beautifully, using specific vocabulary, without holding back the story line. I thought Areenna, the young heroine, was a well-developed character and fully understanding of the consequences of her actions. I couldn't put it down and read it from beginning to end in one sitting! I stayed up until three in the morning to finish it ;p Excellent writing from an excellent author.

'The Quest'

I've always been fond of the "syfy family drama" genre. But this one went beyond that. Does that sound gushy? Well, it's true!! 'The Quest' by Dani Hoots is the story of a girl named Arcadia, who is torn between family and loyalty to the Emperor. It was interesting to see how a innocent but brave girl came to be in a strong position. I was rooting for her from the beginning, especially since everyone wanted rid of her. When her brother shows up they both go in search of a lost planet named "Sanshli". There he hopes to destroy the Pandronan Empire and usher in a new age, but will Arcadia help! This book I'd recommend to readers who enjoy female lead characters as well as YA science fiction. It's well conceived with a first book feel and I will read the sequel :D

'The Scorpion'

'The Scorpion' by John A. Autero is an action-adventure, with an unhealthy dose of a government cover up. As I started reading I wondered if the author was a government spook :p I was not prepared for the surprise twists that started in the State of Nebraska. The writing is paced perfectly; a no nonsense style that guides you along, tantalising you with some intriguing hooks as it goes. Once I was half way through, I needed to finish the book. I haven't read John's other book, but on the basis of this one, I'm interested. It has been a while since I've read a book that was difficult to put down. 

'Ringshine'

As a avid science fiction reader I had to check this book out. Ringshine by William Petersen is a short story which had me hooked by the middle and then carried me right through to the end. The story examines advanced life evolving outside earth with a slight Star Trek overtone. As a teacher in the middle of holidays, finding time to read is difficult, but believe me I found it! The story line is refreshing and the characters are well defined. I will have to check out 'Antite' next :)