Scan barcode
lzw's review
5.0
Marked By Fate an Anthology was an amazing fantastical read!! Such a great collection of novella length tales that have romance, epic adventures, anxiety inducing action, and a little bit of humor among the witty banter. Every story is so unique, and I felt they were all amazing. Each one totally immersed the reader into their fantasy world, you felt like you were really there! All of them were highly engaging, honestly one did not stand out from the others with me-I devoured them all! I am totally stalking the authors who contributed on this!
foxy_roxy's review
5.0
I had the privilege of reading Marked by Fate – an Anthology by several authors known to many, but also unknown to most.
I think what got me the most was the fact that the Anthology was dedicated to Ednah Walters – a very well-known author in the community and loved. If you weren't aware, she recently passed away earlier this year – unexpectedly.
The story that we begin with is Runes – A novel by Ednah Walters and one of my absolute favorites! It is one where we meet Raine Cooper and Torin St James. I love her writing style, and her character development. I can honestly say that I have had the honor of reading all of her books. She's a definite favorite author of mine.
The next book is Swords & Stilettos by Kristin D. Van Risseghem. I've never read anything by her before, and was pleasantly surprised by what the book had to offer. We deal with Zoe Jabril – who happens to be a 17-year-old responsible for saving the world. It was a pretty interesting read, and one that I would like to continue exploring.
We then get Birth of Legends by Raye Wagner. I found that the storyline and character development was very interesting. I found that this book was the 5th book in the Sphinx Series. I might be interested in looking up the rest of her books and giving them a try with the taste that I got!
The next book in this anthology is Becoming by Debra Kristi. This is one of those stories that stays with you throughout time. It hits a spot, and definitely stays with you no matter what.
We also get a small taste of Fantasy of Frost by Kelly St. Clare.
There are many more books written by many great authors – like I mentioned in the beginning. But, like I said in the beginning – the main and important thing about this anthology is the fact that it was dedicated to Ednah Walters. A great and beautiful person in and outside of the writing community.
I definitely give this Anthology a 5 Star Review. It has opened my eyes to many amazing and wonderful authors with the ability to create beautiful and wonderful stories.
I think what got me the most was the fact that the Anthology was dedicated to Ednah Walters – a very well-known author in the community and loved. If you weren't aware, she recently passed away earlier this year – unexpectedly.
The story that we begin with is Runes – A novel by Ednah Walters and one of my absolute favorites! It is one where we meet Raine Cooper and Torin St James. I love her writing style, and her character development. I can honestly say that I have had the honor of reading all of her books. She's a definite favorite author of mine.
The next book is Swords & Stilettos by Kristin D. Van Risseghem. I've never read anything by her before, and was pleasantly surprised by what the book had to offer. We deal with Zoe Jabril – who happens to be a 17-year-old responsible for saving the world. It was a pretty interesting read, and one that I would like to continue exploring.
We then get Birth of Legends by Raye Wagner. I found that the storyline and character development was very interesting. I found that this book was the 5th book in the Sphinx Series. I might be interested in looking up the rest of her books and giving them a try with the taste that I got!
The next book in this anthology is Becoming by Debra Kristi. This is one of those stories that stays with you throughout time. It hits a spot, and definitely stays with you no matter what.
We also get a small taste of Fantasy of Frost by Kelly St. Clare.
There are many more books written by many great authors – like I mentioned in the beginning. But, like I said in the beginning – the main and important thing about this anthology is the fact that it was dedicated to Ednah Walters. A great and beautiful person in and outside of the writing community.
I definitely give this Anthology a 5 Star Review. It has opened my eyes to many amazing and wonderful authors with the ability to create beautiful and wonderful stories.
casseyt's review
3.0
I really enjoyed 6 of the reads in this collection...the rest were 1 to 2 star reads. I am glad for the great ones, 6 at the 99c price is so worth it.
belindaclemons_123's review
5.0
Epic
i got a arc copy and also preordered this book. What can I say about this boxset other than it is epic.
Runes is one of my absolute favorite books of all time and has devilishly handsome men (Torin) to read about. Along with a great female lead in Raine. Ednah May She Rest in Peace got me hooked on Norse Mythology and rereading this book has me crying. The world lost a beloved author.
Raye Wagner had me real emotional while reading her Birth of Legends Phaidra was a great character to read about i really loved her story. It did have me crying my eyes out though. You could feel the emotions coming off the pages. Galen loved her no matter what she looked like. And Priska was an great secondary character.
Lykaios and Khafre got what was coming to them.
Teeth of the Gods by Sarah K L Wilson was a well written story with an original world. The characters were great although the main character Tylira didn't like to listen what others were telling her. I've read this book quiet a few times and will read it more along with its sequels.
The Midnight Society by Rhonda Sermon is an fantastic read and I really enjoyed myself reading it. It is one that I will be returning to alot.
I'm working on reading the rest of the stories now but from what I've already read of the ones I've finished i know I will be loving them. The augmented reality is a wonderful plus to this awesome boxset
i got a arc copy and also preordered this book. What can I say about this boxset other than it is epic.
Runes is one of my absolute favorite books of all time and has devilishly handsome men (Torin) to read about. Along with a great female lead in Raine. Ednah May She Rest in Peace got me hooked on Norse Mythology and rereading this book has me crying. The world lost a beloved author.
Raye Wagner had me real emotional while reading her Birth of Legends Phaidra was a great character to read about i really loved her story. It did have me crying my eyes out though. You could feel the emotions coming off the pages. Galen loved her no matter what she looked like. And Priska was an great secondary character.
Lykaios and Khafre got what was coming to them.
Teeth of the Gods by Sarah K L Wilson was a well written story with an original world. The characters were great although the main character Tylira didn't like to listen what others were telling her. I've read this book quiet a few times and will read it more along with its sequels.
The Midnight Society by Rhonda Sermon is an fantastic read and I really enjoyed myself reading it. It is one that I will be returning to alot.
I'm working on reading the rest of the stories now but from what I've already read of the ones I've finished i know I will be loving them. The augmented reality is a wonderful plus to this awesome boxset
bookwormbunny's review
5.0
How to Talk to Ghosts by Erin Hayes is book five in her The Cotton Candy Quintet. Lita is a teenage girl who can see ghosts and communicate with them. After her mother died things changed for her and her dad. He became more work driven and didn’t care what he had to do to get ahead. As Lita is working on her homework upstairs a phone call comes in with some news. Her great Uncle Neptune has passed away and her father sees a prime opportunity to strike and takeover the Uncle’s aquarium. When they get to Jacksonville for the funeral some familiar faces pop up from an incident that happened back in Houston. Lita crosses paths with some of the mermaid actors in her great Uncle Neptune’s mermaid troupe. Some of the girls are less than pleased for Lita and her father to be there, and for good reason. He quickly makes it known his reason for being there – to take over the aquarium and make it his. Thanks to a few hitches, things seem to be going his way. There is no will to speak of because of Neptune’s foresight to hide it. Neptune intended for one of his mermaid’s to inherit the aquarium but without a will that leaves the door wide open for Lita’s dad to strong arm his way into possessing it. Lita decides to side with the girls to help them locate the will and find out where it is so that it can pass into the rightful hands. Things will not be easy especially when evil makes its presence known to all. Ghosts are not being able to cross over and their souls are living in torment. Can Lita, with the help of Ryan and her new friends, save the world from the evil that wishes to destroy it all?
How to Talk to Ghosts is the first book in the Cotton Candy Quintet that I have read. The books can be read as standalones so this book was very easy to read and follow along with what was going on. Lita is a well done character in my opinion. She faces a lot in this story but she doesn’t let it keep her down. She forges ahead. What I really appreciate about her as a character is that she doesn’t fall apart when things get hard. So many characters tend to start out strong but then when they face a crisis then they tend to fall apart and melt. Lita doesn’t do that. Lita grasps what is at stake and moves forward to help and save those that she cares about. I absolutely enjoy several of the surprises in this story. For me, each one of the little surprises kept me, not only engaged in the story, but I fully intend to go and read the other stories in this series.
There was only one thing that I did not like about this story but only because it just seemed so unfair. The story is so well done though and I loved it very much. The twists, the surprises, the reveals of the various characters (for those of us who have not read the stories) it all comes together and makes such a successful story.
I have read several stories before by this author and this is one that I would say ranks up in the top favorites. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. This book has been professionally edited and is very well done. I will be going back and reading the other books in this series. I look forward to reading more from this author in the very near future.
How to Talk to Ghosts is the first book in the Cotton Candy Quintet that I have read. The books can be read as standalones so this book was very easy to read and follow along with what was going on. Lita is a well done character in my opinion. She faces a lot in this story but she doesn’t let it keep her down. She forges ahead. What I really appreciate about her as a character is that she doesn’t fall apart when things get hard. So many characters tend to start out strong but then when they face a crisis then they tend to fall apart and melt. Lita doesn’t do that. Lita grasps what is at stake and moves forward to help and save those that she cares about. I absolutely enjoy several of the surprises in this story. For me, each one of the little surprises kept me, not only engaged in the story, but I fully intend to go and read the other stories in this series.
There was only one thing that I did not like about this story but only because it just seemed so unfair. The story is so well done though and I loved it very much. The twists, the surprises, the reveals of the various characters (for those of us who have not read the stories) it all comes together and makes such a successful story.
I have read several stories before by this author and this is one that I would say ranks up in the top favorites. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. This book has been professionally edited and is very well done. I will be going back and reading the other books in this series. I look forward to reading more from this author in the very near future.
arthistorygirl's review
4.0
Marked By Fate is an anthology of 26 full-length novels. Keep in mind I say novels not short story or novella. These are normal length novels and there are 26 of them in one book! This is a great collection and will keep any reader in books for a while. The stories are all fascinating. They are young adult science fiction fantasy. There is a bit of young love, teen angst, and battles between different beings. There are supernatural beings and all sorts of good things. Also, the stories are well written with some great characters.
I enjoyed the books and will be hunting down some more by the authors featured. Another cool things some are the first book in the series. This is a great way to find a new series or a new fave author.
I enjoyed the books and will be hunting down some more by the authors featured. Another cool things some are the first book in the series. This is a great way to find a new series or a new fave author.
fish3718's review
5.0
Marked by Fate Is 25 stories that are put together in an anthology, the stories cover generally the same genres. I have found myself loving the Young Adult Sci-Fi and Fantasy stories. I feel that the authors are not trying hard to present the story to you. The writing styles have to grab the reader fast and hold the attention of a young adult. The other thing I love about young adult authors is that they think outside the box.
Runes by Ednah Walters is the first story in the anthology. Raine Copper is a teenager who is dealing with issues about her parents. She is trying to figure what is going on in her family. She has some life events that she is drawing her strength but is also drawn to Torin St. James. This story has two stories in one. The placement of this story is awesome and it keeps you to have an open mind about the stories to come.
Sanctuary by Melle Amade has a number of shifters in the plot. This makes this story a favorite of mine. I believe when the author lets go to see where the story takes them is the way to go. Amade has a way to connect you to the characters. While that is happening you get so involved in the story you do not realize how much time pasted.
The Clay Lion by Amalie Jahn makes time travel possible for Brooke to go back in her time line. This story is one of those do you think you can change the past to change the future. Only Brooke can answer that question. It is interesting to read what a young adult would keep the same or change for the better, or what she thinks will be better.
Runes by Ednah Walters is the first story in the anthology. Raine Copper is a teenager who is dealing with issues about her parents. She is trying to figure what is going on in her family. She has some life events that she is drawing her strength but is also drawn to Torin St. James. This story has two stories in one. The placement of this story is awesome and it keeps you to have an open mind about the stories to come.
Sanctuary by Melle Amade has a number of shifters in the plot. This makes this story a favorite of mine. I believe when the author lets go to see where the story takes them is the way to go. Amade has a way to connect you to the characters. While that is happening you get so involved in the story you do not realize how much time pasted.
The Clay Lion by Amalie Jahn makes time travel possible for Brooke to go back in her time line. This story is one of those do you think you can change the past to change the future. Only Brooke can answer that question. It is interesting to read what a young adult would keep the same or change for the better, or what she thinks will be better.
bwagner's review
4.0
Marked by Fate: With Augmented Reality: Read, Watch, Listen. The new ultimate reading experience is a collection of 25 short stories by a group of authors. They come together with their stories to give us a journey that will take you on other galaxies, some are magical, science fiction where you could encounter just about any life form including werewolf, shifters, angels, robots and much more. Each author has their own writing style and creative characters. You will find your favorite stories and lovable characters. Each story is unique and will pull you in from the beginning. They will take you on some twists and turns that will keep you reading. You never know what you may find lurking in the shadows in these stories. Some of these are new authors for me which is one of the reasons I love reading anthologies, to meet new authors. Some I have already read but either way I will be going back for more from each of these authors. You will find laughter, compassion, fear and even some angry feelings with these stories, no doubt a roller coaster ride of emotions you don't want to miss. There is something for everyone in this collection of stories. I highly recommend this anthology, I know you will find a new author that you will fall in love with.
shannonlovesbooksandreading's review
5.0
This anthology is jammed packed with adventures in fantasy land as well as present time with a twist. A couple of stand-out favorites are Runes by Ednah Walters, Shock of Fate by DL Armillei and The Midnight Society by Rhonda Sermon. Although the rest are well worth the read as well! Runes is such a good story, allowing Walters to jump right up on my favorite author list!! Runes is about Raine and Torin. Two individuals with a little something extra. We aren’t told exactly what is going on but we learn that Raine is something special in the grand scheme of things. Just when you think there is going to be a happily ever after, Walters throws the biggest twist of all. I can not wait for the next story!
Then Shock of Fate by DL Armillei is a fun fantasy world with demons, magic and other worlds and even different tribes of people like the Lodians and the Balish. There are a lot of surprises in this story but also a lot of questions. As with any good series, we are given just enough in book one to want to read the next one.
The Midnight Society by Rhonda Sermon is more about time traveling and setting history “as it was intended”. This story is a little more in depth and can be a little confusing with the rewriting of history but so worth the adventurous read!
I recommend any anthology but Marked by Fate is especially great for the adventure lover in you!
Then Shock of Fate by DL Armillei is a fun fantasy world with demons, magic and other worlds and even different tribes of people like the Lodians and the Balish. There are a lot of surprises in this story but also a lot of questions. As with any good series, we are given just enough in book one to want to read the next one.
The Midnight Society by Rhonda Sermon is more about time traveling and setting history “as it was intended”. This story is a little more in depth and can be a little confusing with the rewriting of history but so worth the adventurous read!
I recommend any anthology but Marked by Fate is especially great for the adventure lover in you!
angelahayes's review
4.0
4 Stars
Marked by Fate is a wonderful collection of young adult, fantasy and science fiction stories from some incredibly talented, best-selling and award-winning authors. I was so impressed with the quality and variety of stories that make up this anthology. There is such great value to be had by purchasing this set, because there are 26 fantastic stories to immerse yourself in- all for the cost of just one book. Most, if not all of these stories have been published individually by the authors, before being added to this collection. The books are quite varied -from fantasy, science fiction, supernatural, paranormal, young adult, dystopian thriller, post-apocalyptic, and even a little Mythology. There is such a diverse range of storylines, characters and worlds within this books pages. There are angels, demons, shifters, banshees, aliens, Morgana LeFay, Sphinxes and even a Werevulture….and sooooo much more. We follow along as prophecies are unraveled, trying to save the world and prevent Armageddon, then explore some Greek and Egyptian Mythology, dive into some fairy-tales with a twist, open doors, face danger, survive, follow destiny, stand up for oneself, get a close up look at psychic abilities, encounter varied magical abilities, and even time travel (just to name a few).
I had heard of and read the work of some of the contributing authors, but so many were new to me- which I find exciting because I get an introduction to their work and style of writing. Adding new authors and books to my reading list is always a welcome experience.
I really recommend this book to anyone who loves any of the genres, subject matter or types of characters listed above- there really is something here for everyone. Be prepared to lose yourself for a few days!
Reading this book was such a wonderful, and captivating adventure! Thank you, to all the contributing authors!
Marked by Fate is a wonderful collection of young adult, fantasy and science fiction stories from some incredibly talented, best-selling and award-winning authors. I was so impressed with the quality and variety of stories that make up this anthology. There is such great value to be had by purchasing this set, because there are 26 fantastic stories to immerse yourself in- all for the cost of just one book. Most, if not all of these stories have been published individually by the authors, before being added to this collection. The books are quite varied -from fantasy, science fiction, supernatural, paranormal, young adult, dystopian thriller, post-apocalyptic, and even a little Mythology. There is such a diverse range of storylines, characters and worlds within this books pages. There are angels, demons, shifters, banshees, aliens, Morgana LeFay, Sphinxes and even a Werevulture….and sooooo much more. We follow along as prophecies are unraveled, trying to save the world and prevent Armageddon, then explore some Greek and Egyptian Mythology, dive into some fairy-tales with a twist, open doors, face danger, survive, follow destiny, stand up for oneself, get a close up look at psychic abilities, encounter varied magical abilities, and even time travel (just to name a few).
I had heard of and read the work of some of the contributing authors, but so many were new to me- which I find exciting because I get an introduction to their work and style of writing. Adding new authors and books to my reading list is always a welcome experience.
I really recommend this book to anyone who loves any of the genres, subject matter or types of characters listed above- there really is something here for everyone. Be prepared to lose yourself for a few days!
Reading this book was such a wonderful, and captivating adventure! Thank you, to all the contributing authors!