I love the Red Rising Saga and Light Bringer by Pierce Brown was one of my most anticipated books/audiobooks. Brown did not disappoint, and I listened as I read along. This series and these characters bring forth every emotion. The story left me spent and eager for the next novel. Check out my thoughts.

Light Bringer
by Pierce Brown
Series: Red Rising #6
Narrator: Tim Gerard Reynolds
Length: 30 hours and 8 minutes
Genres: Fantasy
Source: Publisher, Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 4.5 cups Speed: 1.45x

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Darrow returns as Pierce Brown’s New York Times bestselling Red Rising series continues in the thrilling sequel to Dark Age.

The Reaper is a legend, more myth than man: the savior of worlds, the leader of the Rising, the breaker of chains.

But the Reaper is also Darrow, born of the red soil of Mars: a husband, a father, a friend.

Marooned far from home after a devastating defeat on the battlefields of Mercury, Darrow longs to return to his wife and sovereign, Virginia, to defend Mars from its bloodthirsty would-be conqueror Lysander.

Lysander longs to destroy the Rising and restore the supremacy of Gold, and will raze the worlds to realize his ambitions.

The worlds once needed the Reaper. But now they need Darrow, and Darrow needs the people he loves—Virginia, Cassius, Sevro—in order to defend the Republic.

So begins Darrow’s long voyage home, an interplanetary adventure where old friends will reunite, new alliances will be forged, and rivals will clash on the battlefield.

Because Eo’s dream is still alive—and after the dark age will come a new age: of light, of victory, of hope.

Don’t miss any of Pierce Brown’s Red Rising Saga:
RED RISING • GOLDEN SON • MORNING STAR • IRON GOLD • DARK AGE • LIGHT BRINGER

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Headphones on and with my hardcover copy in hand, I curled up with Light Bringer and prepared for Darrow’s journey home. Narrated by Tim Gerard Reynolds, this science fiction fantasy takes us back to the roots of the saga. While I missed seeing characters, Brown knock it out of the park.

From glorious battle scenes to emotional moments, Light Bringer brings the focus back on Darrow, The Reaper. Told in four parts as we traverse the galaxy, we spent our time between Lysander and Darrow (and crew.) I walked away from this, knowing Darrow and others more intimately. I felt their pain, fears, sacrifices, friendships, loss and hopes.

Was it worth the four year wait after Dark Ages? Abso-freakin-loutely. While not as gut-wrenching and nail-biting as the Dark Ages, it delivered all that I hoped for, and more. Brown scaled the story down and focused on these two men who have journeyed so far. The world and the war Brown has created comes to life in vivid 3D. He hits home on the sacrifices, the greed, the sheep and the loss. His characters have a genuineness to them and consistently stay true to themselves as they evolve and grow. I feel as if I know them and share their experiences and emotions. I should mention that I also feel enraged by the actions of some, from self-serving greed to the hierarchy and trappings of the colors.

The last section held me in its grip and damn it, Brown had me weeping. I cannot wait for Red God, the next novel in the saga. I desperately hope it isn’t another four year wait, but you can bet I will be pre-ordering the novel & audiobook as soon as they go up for sale.

I love reading the books and began the series that way, but the audio adds an element to the characters and story that I enjoy. Tim Gerard Reynolds did a great job capturing the emotions of these characters and the scenes.

Amazon | Audible

Read along as Tim Gerald Reynolds brings Light Bringer by Pierce Brown to life. #RedRisingSaga #SciFi #Fantasy #autobuy #mustlisten #NewRelease
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2023 Audiobook Challenge

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/08/light-bringer-by-pierce-brown.html

Kathryn’s journey into the enigmatic world of the HGS (Hope & Global Support) takes a dramatic turn in Cogitatio, the second installment in McKinley Aspen’s riveting “Shadows of the Wind” series. A life once unfamiliar to Kathryn suddenly takes on new meaning as she embraces the fabulous opportunity to impact the world in a positive way. However, her commitment to the cause brings unforeseen challenges, including an assignment that leads to incarceration without trial, charges, or explanation.

This perplexing circumstance unravels as part of the greater HGS mission, offering Kathryn a glimpse into the labyrinthine path she must tread. The seemingly insurmountable task of stopping the Paolucci crime family’s expansion is compounded by a deeply personal connection: the syndicate’s leader is part of her family.

Aspen’s storytelling prowess shines in Cogitatio. Though not a direct continuation of its predecessor, Praesidium, the narrative quickly immerses readers in Kathryn’s new high-stakes situation without needlessly rehashing prior events. The pace is measured and deliberate, occasionally dwelling on details but never at the expense of reader engagement. The synergy among Kathryn and her team pulsates through the pages, their shared discovery of abilities and purpose forging a conspiratorial bond with the reader.

The battle lines in Cogitatio are sharply drawn, with the timeless theme of good versus evil at its core. The familial connection introduced here enriches the story, adding an emotional layer that heightens investment in the unfolding drama. This installment not only builds on the foundation laid in the first book but also sets the stage for what promises to be an epic conclusion.

Aspen has managed to breathe fresh air into the well-worn genre of apocalyptic good-versus-evil narratives, maintaining originality and anticipation for what lies ahead. Both fans of the series and newcomers alike will find much to savor in Cogitatio. Its unique blend of intrigue, action, and personal stakes make for a compelling read.

The “Shadows of the Wind” series has thus far proven to be a thrilling literary adventure. I eagerly look forward to the future of Kathryn and the HGS team, confident that whatever awaits them will be as gripping and thought-provoking as the journey thus far. Aspen’s talent in crafting suspense and innovation assures that the next entry will continue this engaging trend.

Pages: 155 | ASIN : B0CDY1RT8B

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/28/cogitatio-shadows-in-the-wind-book-two/

The “it” factor–we have all heard about it. Some have it, and some don’t. Even if we don’t have it, we recognize it in others. Joe isn’t sure if he has “it.” He wants more than anything to thrill audiences and move their hearts with his music. He feels at home on the stage, but he can’t shake the feeling that his skills are not good enough–not the “it” that everyone wants and expects. As he takes his place on an empty theater stage, Joe imagines himself in a big-time band. He begins to play, never knowing that his life is about to take a most unexpected turn.

IT: A Children’s Book about Encouragement and Discovering One’s Gifts, written by Mark Hattas and illustrated by Aubrey Foster, is a story filled with hope, empowerment, and an important lesson in self-confidence. Hattas’s main character, Joe, sees his future wherever he looks when he is onstage, and it is truly amazing. He, like so many of us, lacks the self-confidence to step out of his comfort zone. Joe is a shining example of what it means to be young and have a dream. Readers will find Joe as likable as he is relatable.

I was struck by Hattas’s unique choice of point of view. The use of a second-person point of view is not something you see often in books of this genre, and I found it to be both an interesting and effective tactic. This speaks volumes about the author’s knowledge of his audience and ability to reach readers through his narratives.

Aubrey Foster’s illustrations draw the reader into Joe’s experience onstage. With a style that will remind many readers of anime artwork, Foster has effectively portrayed Hattas’s main character and put his every emotion front and center with clean lines, vibrant colors, and soft highlights that illuminate both her illustrations and Hattas’s message.

IT: A Children’s Book about Encouragement and Discovering One’s Gifts is a beautifully illustrated and spiritually moving account of hope. Hattas’s work is billed as a children’s book, though the message is one for any age. Hattas’s work is deep and thoughtful and will, no doubt, leave a lasting impression on readers.

Pages: 39 | ASIN : B08JHMZDMP

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/28/it/

In Steve the Zombie, readers are introduced to Steve, a detective at the pinnacle of his promising career. This engaging tale pivots sharply when a mysterious illness descends upon his community. While investigating what appears to be the onset of a Zombie apocalypse, Steve makes a terrifying discovery: he has become infected. The fear of becoming a monster, once only a distant nightmare, is suddenly a chilling reality. Yet, even as the infection ravages his body, transforming his appearance and sapping his strength, Steve’s humanity endures.

The narrative then takes us on a thrilling journey as Steve wrestles with his metamorphosis and the urgent need to save his partner, Sarah, from the virus that is consuming him. Will he succeed?

One of the standout qualities of Stephen Wayne’s writing is his ability to craft a palpable emotional connection between the reader and the protagonist. Wayne’s portrayal of Steve’s thoughts and emotions is nothing short of masterful. Readers are privy to Steve’s mind, gaining intimate insight into his decisions, feelings, and the relentless pursuit of a cure. Steve’s selflessness and discipline remain awe-inspiring, even as he confronts his transformation into a zombie.

The novel presents a focused cast of characters that keeps the reader’s attention firmly on the main storyline. For those who appreciate the depth, the narrative’s emphasis on Steve’s experience allows an immersive understanding of his situation. The story’s pacing, filled with action and complex thoughts, provides an energetic and engaging experience for those who enjoy a more intricate read. Even for readers unfamiliar with the genre, the novel’s complexity may present an exciting challenge and a refreshing departure from conventional storytelling.

Steve the Zombie offers a rewarding deviation from the norm, even for those who do not typically venture into dystopian literature. Wayne’s literary prowess is genuinely impressive, bringing a fresh twist to the familiar zombie narrative by using a zombie’s perspective.

Steve the Zombie is a compelling read that will likely appeal to fans of fast-paced dystopian novels. If you have an appetite for a unique take on zombie lore, exploring resilience and humanity’s struggle against the monstrous, this book will not disappoint.

Pages: 146 | ASIN : B0C8692JP2

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/28/steve-the-zombie/

Revenge I Will Have follows a former Navy SEAL who is recalled to active duty when a terrorist is discovered to be working with his ex-girlfriend and nemesis. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

I’ve seen this story so many times; people want to turn the page on certain chapters of their lives and move on; they think they are done with certain situations, whether it’s a job, role, or relationship. Then they find out the situation at hand, albeit a job role or relationship, isn’t done with them, and they are forced to confront the situation before they can move on.

How did you come up with the idea for the antagonist in this story, and how did it change as you wrote?

Readers often judge the worth of a hero by the size of the villain he or she has to confront. To that end and to make the story come alive, Jake has to confront a clever, cunning adversary with nearly unlimited financial resources and, more importantly, a burning hatred for all things Jake believes in; the antagonist is consumed with hatred and has the capability and means to realize his vision. I wanted the outcome of the story to be in doubt for the reader because of my realization that in the real world, the good guys don’t always win.

What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?

It’s really been my husband and the life he has pursued. There is never a dull moment, coupled with the fact he’s never hesitant to call BS on people and confront things he believes are wrong. Also, moving to the United States from the UK has really opened my eyes up to the complexities of the world.

Can you tell us where the book goes and where we’ll see the characters in the next book?

The characters will continue to evolve and confront challenges that are innate to human nature, some of which include all-encompassing jealousy that turns into hatred and betrayal. The reader will also be exposed to new characters from Jake’s past.

Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/28/the-good-guys-dont-always-win/

Heartless Obsession follows a betrayed bride-to-be who takes off on a cruise to get perspective on her future, only to have more questions. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

I’ve been on several cruises and wanted to use a cruise with its various ports of call, entertainment, and activities as the background for the story. A honeymoon trip was a good fit for the plot, and the conflict at the beginning set up the series of events that followed. The story focuses on the wrath of a betrayed woman and, at the same time, her vulnerability while still believing love could mend her broken relationship with her fiancée.

What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?

Christina is the more complex character due to the roller coaster of her emotions throughout the story. The manipulative behavior of her fiancée Kevin also provided some challenges, as well as Lucas, who was tempted by easy money and paid by losing his wife and ultimately his own.

How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?

I usually start writing from a basic conflict and let the story develop by adding situations and characters as needed. The plot twists are additional sources of intrigue to make the reader wonder how the story will end. Story development and shocking twists are interconnected but not necessarily the same.

What is the next book that you’re working on and when can your fans expect it out?

I’m working on my next book right now, and it’s about fifty percent developed. Counting the time needed to finish the story, editing, and design, it may take about four months to publish it. I want to have it ready for the holidays, but it will be tight.

Author Links: Twitter

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/28/shocking-twists-at-sea/