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Stranger Shores by Katie Zaber Busy learning how to kill with her gift of life, Princess Megan craves time to practice how to heal, but knows that only death will win the upcoming war. For the first time in Megan’s life, she has fallen in love, and with the wrong man, at that. As much as she loves Mana, will she have to end their relationship to keep her promise to the soon-to-be king of the Syreni, Prince Aenon? Meanwhile, Kevin is busy preparing for his child with Dana and trying to keep Megan out of trouble. When Brynjar takes him to the Saoirson Fighters' hideout, he realizes he knows nothing and if he wants answers, he’ll have to talk to people he never expected to meet and never wanted to. On Earth, Carmia is learning what makes this foreign world spin. She discovers an island with inhabitants that appear primitive but are more sophisticated than anyone on Dalya. Their technology is more advanced than the inventions in her dreams. She flirts with the idea of staying on Earth forever until tragedy sends her sailing back to Dalya and into a deadly storm. She promises to return and never leave Earth again. At the same time, the king of the Paradise Kingdom and secretly all of Dargone, Megan’s father, plans his next move against his daughter, giving her a surprise she will never expect. |
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A Darkness At The Door by Intisar Khanani I've been cursed, betrayed, and sold into slavery – but the truth I carry can't be allowed to die. Only Rae knows the extent of the corruption at the heart of the kingdom of Menaiya, from the noble lord who betrayed her, to the Circle of Mages whose wards protect the slavers from discovery. Injured and imprisoned on a slave ship, Rae's options are quickly running out. When a desperate escape attempt goes terribly wrong, she finds herself indebted to a terrifying Fae sorceress. Now Rae will not rest until she has rescued her fellow prisoners and freed her land from the darkness that has taken hold. To succeed, she'll need every ally she can find—including Bren, the thief who may have stolen her heart. But Bren is hiding his own bloody secrets, and the curses that encircle Rae have sunk their claws into her mind. With her debts coming due and time running short, all the truths in the world may not be enough to save her kingdom, or herself. What critics are saying: "Full of action, magic, and intrigue." - Foreword Reviews, starred review "A fairy tale that goes beyond happily-ever-after, exploring the will and vigilance needed to achieve justice and equity." - Kirkus Reviews, starred review Named one of Kirkus Reviews' Best Young Adult Books of the Year, 2022 Snap up the thrilling sequel to THE THEFT OF SUNLIGHT now! |
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Idriel's Children by Hayley Reese Chow Reaping darkness, the Shadow slicked steel with judgment and danced with death… Sixteen-year-old Aza inherited the power of shadow to rid the land of evil as Odriel’s cold-blooded assassin. With her growing strength, Aza discovers the Shadow Plane—a realm of wraiths where screams haunt the winds, calling to her. Although her father forbids her from entering the dark realm, Aza can’t ignore the beckoning whispers. When a dangerous new breed of monster attacks, Aza believes the Shadow Plane holds the answers they need to defeat them. With the unwanted help of a snarky cat and a cursed beast, Aza seeks out the monastic Wraith-Called for answers. But the deeper Aza delves into the dark realm, the further she drifts from the world she knows. As Aza uncovers evils new and old, she must decide if the ends really do justify the means… and how many lives she’s willing to pay. |
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Time's Orphan by Hayley Reese Chow Speak of pain, and I’ll tell you of the Time who stole it away… Besieged by war, ravaged by monsters, and crawling with the undead, the land of Okarria is dying. Seventeen-year-old Emara survives by using her modest healing gift to save as many as she can while eluding the invaders who thirst for her enchanted blood. So when a cursed cat saves her life and reveals Emara is the legendary Time Heir the necromancer king’s been searching for, she agrees to act as bait in a plot to destroy him. But when the plan goes horrifically awry, Emara must discover how deep her powers go, what she can change… And what she cannot. Unfortunately, Time Heirs have a history of getting killed, and with Okarria’s future on the line, Emara may have no choice but to follow in her ancestors’ footsteps. |
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Followed By Fire (The Incineration Saga, #1) by McKenzie Austin A witch, a demon, and a priest walk into a tavern … Wait, no. A war. Yeah. It’s definitely a war. In Brigovia, the cobblestones run warm with the blood of humans, demons, and enchanters alike. And with each body that falls, one name is whispered: Greenbriar. It’s all particularly vexing for Esven Greenbriar, since she’s never killed anyone in her entire life. But when humans drag her mother, the fabled witch of Brigovia, from their isolated home and execute her by fire, all of Esven’s compassion for mankind goes up in smoke. Now, tempted by an alluring fire demon with a proposition to destroy humanity, the young witch must choose between the revenge she craves and her late mother’s wish for peace. With a reticent priest and a sarcastic cat among her painfully short list of friends, she just might be able to stifle her anger and spare the world. Or, you know, burn it all to ash. |
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Unseen: The Mercer Nox Story by L.A. Wasielewski What did life give me? Torment. Grief. A scarred soul. Did I deserve it? Maybe. Did I welcome it? Maybe… Call me cursed, arrogant, bitter. Call me whatever you want. I know my place in this world, I know where I stand with the Goddess. I know how I ended up here, what I did. What I didn’t do. It haunts me, but then again, don’t we all have demons? Some tried to tell me it was destiny, but I refuse to believe some outside force controls my life. Bad things happen, good things happen. In my case, well, let’s just leave it at that and move on. It’s probably better that way. Unseen: The Mercer Nox Story follows the incredible life of a man who never really wanted to participate in the whole “saving the world” thing in the first place—but realized he really didn’t have a choice. And it annoyed him to no end. This book contains major spoilers for The Alchemist Trilogy, it is recommended that you read the original trilogy first for maximum enjoyment! |
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Prisoner of the Deep by Alyson Tait Shy and introverted, Dash grew up reserved and with few friends. Once meeting Bria and Talyn on his home planets academy, they became his best friends. With more courage and knowledge than he could hope for, the pair consistently managed to pull Dash into adventures he would have otherwise avoided.Now they have embarked on their bravest quest yet. The trio have borrowed a ship and set their sites on Earth, the home of the Great Old Ones. Imprisoned for all eternity and currently at rest, the fearsome creatures and the small planet are quarantined from the rest of the galaxy.Humans are to stay put, ignorant and yet safe. Everything else stays away, hoping the beasts stay slumbering.Dash now stumbles along, trying to feel included as they move to the bottom of the deep blue ocean.The three find themselves unprepared for what happens next, unaware that their information on Earth isn’t entirely accurate. |
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The Children of Chaos (The Cruel Gods #2) by Trudie Skies WHEN THE SAINTS CALL, THE SINNERS ANSWER. Chaos stalks the steam-powered city of Chime and threatens the existence of the gods and their domains. Kayl swore to protect Chime's mortals from their gods' cruel whims, but when she agrees to represent the mortals of a god long thought dead, Kayl is thrust into a political role that goes against everything she's ever stood for. As the newly appointed ambassador to the god of time, Quen's goal is clear - protect Chime and the domains by any means necessary. But as the gods make their demands, Quen is caught between his loyalties and his conscience. To ensure a future for all mortals, Kayl and Quen must unite the gods against the threat of chaos and decide what they're willing to sacrifice for Chime - before the gods choose for them. For the gods are capricious and have their own divine plans. The Children of Chaos is the second book in The Cruel Gods series—a gaslamp fantasy featuring magical portals, gothic cosmic deities, quaint Britishisms, and steampunk vibes. This is an adult book containing strong language and mature themes that some readers may find disturbing. For a full list of content warnings, visit Trudie Skies's website. |
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Crown of Nightmares (The Venatrix Chronicles Book 7) by Sylvia Mercedes Who will live? Who will die? Who will be changed . . . forever? Separated from the Evanderians, Ayleth finds herself alone in the malevolent Witchwood. Or perhaps not entirely alone . . . Confronted with the reality of her living grandmother, Ayleth soon learns that the horrors once ascribed to Dread Odile’s name and legend may not be entirely true. But what is the truth? Could the infamous Witch Queen be a freedom fighter providing hope for those oppressed under Saint Evander’s law? Is she the loving family Ayleth thought she’d lost forever? Or is she the greatest threat the world has ever known? While battling to save their loved ones, Ayleth, Terryn, and Gerard must each face the lies that have influenced their lives since childhood. The final battle is upon them, and the decisions they make will shape the course of destiny. Don’t miss the explosive finale of the acclaimed Venatrix Chronicles! |
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Queen of Poison (The Venatrix Chronicles Book 6) by Sylvia Mercedes Betrayal surrounds her. Doom beckons her. Yet she will hunt one last time. Captured, heartbroken, shackled in torturous iron mittens that keep her shade deeply suppressed, Ayleth knows Fendrel keeps her alive for one purpose: She is his only remaining weapon against the resurrected Dread Odile. Once her task is complete, she will be executed. It’s as simple as that. But Ayleth isn’t about to give in that easily. Meanwhile, Gerard is held prisoner in his own castle by his uncle's orders--Fendrel must keep his nephew alive in order to force the ancient prophecy into completion. However, Gerard sees a different path before him, and he is resolved to follow it to the end. As the forces of the Witch Queen wreak havoc across the land, can Ayleth and Gerard come to terms with the truth of their pasts . . . and face their destinies with courage? Don’t miss the penultimate adventure in the breathtaking Venatrix Chronicles! |
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Tears of Dust (The Venatrix Chronicles Book 5) by Sylvia Mercedes After two days in isolation, Ayleth still doesn’t know why Fendrel placed her under house arrest. Powerful drugs suppress Laranta deep inside her, leaving her alone with too many unanswered questions. What has become of kidnapped Lady Cerine? Why has Prince Gerard not stepped in to help? What is Fendrel’s ultimate agenda? And, most urgently, where is Terryn? Has Fendrel arrested him as well for the curse he carries? The curse that nearly made him kill Gerard . . . . When a Phasmatrix arrives at the castle with a host of shade hunters, Ayleth fears they have come to test Terryn and, if he cannot be cured, to execute him. But the Phasmatrix has a different objective in view, and Terryn’s life might not be the one most imperiled. Betrayal surrounds Ayleth on all sides, and fiery doom awaits her at dawn. Will she find an unexpected ally amid the coming storm? Or will she face the truth of her past—and its future consequences—alone? Return to the dark and deadly intrigues of The Venatrix Chronicles, where witches wage war against holy orders, friends and enemies are equally treacherous, and secrets long thought dead struggle into light. If you enjoy kick-butt heroines, conflicted heroes, and slow-burn romance ready to ignite, then you will love Ayleth and Terryn’s latest adventure! |
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Dance of Souls (The Venatrix Chronicles Book 4) by Sylvia Mercedes Venatrix Ayleth made a vow of loyalty to her Holy Order. But is the Order loyal to Ayleth? Still recovering from her deadly encounter with the Phantomwitch, Ayleth finds herself the unwilling guest of the Golden Prince, forced to enjoy his hospitality . . . and the not-so-gentle ministrations of Venator Fendrel du Glaive. There’s something strange about Fendrel. The way he stares at her is unsettling—as though she’s a monster, as though she’s guilty of some great sin. But didn’t she just defeat one of the worst enemies the kingdom has ever known? Hasn’t she proven her worth? And then there’s Terryn, who may be lying to her, who may not be the loyal venator everyone believes him to be. He also looks at her strangely . . . but his gaze makes her heart stop and her pulse race in ways she’s never felt before. As the night of Prince Gerard’s wedding approaches and the kingdom gathers to celebrate new beginnings, dark forces close in on all sides. Certain secrets, long buried deep, are bound to emerge at last. When they do, will Ayleth have the strength to stand and fight? |
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Paths of Malice (The Venatrix Chronicles Book 3) by Sylvia Mercedes Poisoned. Trapped. At the mercy of a ghost . . . She can handle this. A month into her competition with Venator Terryn, Ayleth seems no closer to winning the Golden Prince’s trust. Why else would he call Terryn to serve at the castle on some secret mission, leaving Ayleth to manage the borough on her own? No matter. She’ll prove her worth to the prince come what may. Plenty of mysteries plague the land under her protection . . . including the mystery of Terryn himself and the strange, dangerous talisman he’s been keeping hidden in his room. Her search for answers soon finds Ayleth on the trail of her deadliest foe yet. A ghost from the prince’s past has returned to haunt the present, possessed of a powerful phantom shade capable of walking the dark paths of the Haunts. Ayleth is totally outmatched and unprepared to face such an enemy alone. But when has she ever backed down from a fight? Welcome back to a world where enemies and friends can be difficult to distinguish, where angels are deadly and demons desirable, and shadows of the past loom dark across the future. If you like your heroines brave, your heroes tormented, and your action non-stop, try The Venatrix Chronicles today! |
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Visions of Fate (The Venatrix Chronicles Book 2) by Sylvia Mercedes Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo, this romantic fantasy adventure will leave you hungry for more. The hunt is on. But who is the hunter and who is the hunted? Ayleth and Terryn survived the Witchwood, but they’re no closer to solving the mystery of the dead shade hunter. In their quest for answers, they discover that a witch has escaped through the Great Barrier and is leaving a trail of corpses in her wake. A murderous witch is only one of Ayleth’s problems, however. Terryn, her infuriating and intriguing rival, will give his all to win their competition. And Kephan, their Outpost Master, conceals more than one dangerous secret. Worst of all, while pursuing a lead, Ayleth finds herself on the hunt for a three-year-old girl . . . a girl possessed by a unique and powerful shade. Suddenly, Ayleth must question the teachings of her Holy Order. Is it always right to kill humans possessed by shades? Even a child? Return to the world of The Venatrix Chronicles, where deadly spirits lurk in the shadows, good and evil wage eternal war, and secrets threaten to tear a kingdom apart. If you love kick-butt heroines, slow-burn romance, breathtaking action, and stories that leave you with a book hangover for days after you finish . . . you need to discover this dark and deadly series. Prepare to turn pages late into the night! |
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We Are the Origin (Wrath of the Gods Book 1) by C.M. Lockhart She was a shadow. Forced into a life of serving the queendom before she was old enough to deny them, Brandi was a cultivator of death and the queen’s own blade, reserved only for the disloyal and the blasphemous. Crafted by the queendom and forged in blood, she was nothing more than a tool. She was never meant to have an opinion on whose blood she shed — never meant to question whose back she was pressed into or whose throat she was slipped across. She was destruction. But when Freya, the goddess of life and judger of souls, demands that she protect rather than destroy, Brandi has no choice but to obey her new orders. And while abandoning the queendom comes with its own set of problems, being hunted by the people she once called family is the least of her worries when the gods reveal to her an enemy who exists beyond the reach of their power. So, with a helpless princess in tow, she begins her search for a way to fight this impossible enemy and save the realm from destruction. Because she is the wrath of the gods. And it was foolish for anyone to forget that. |
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She woke up in agonizing pain, her body uncontrollably shivering, and her nerves were paralyzed from exposure. She struggled to collect her thoughts; images raced through her mind, unable to differentiate whether she was awake or in a horror show. Unaware of who she was, where she was, or how she got there, disoriented, the fog started to lift. She struggled to open her eyes and tried to reach for her wrist, which was pulsing with pain, but couldn't. Her arms and legs were bound to cold metal, splayed like that of a pig, about to be butchered. Through blurry eyes, she could finally see the origin of the deep throb from her wrist; there, she saw the number 36752 burnt into her skin in raw, red flesh. She exhaled a shaky breath; it billowed, turning to vapor in the frigid room. Her eyes trailed over her goose-fleshed skin, her exposed breasts taut and pointed, left her ill at ease. Every inch of her skin was exposed, her numb body tied to a metal bed. |
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Daughter Dusk (The Myrk Maiden Trilogy) by Alyssa Charpentier The journey of identity continues. Twilight has escaped from the clutches of the Shadows, but her freedom is far from won. Now, she and her loved ones must prepare for war against the dark sorcerers who plot to destroy the world and all the light it contains. Twilight struggles to leave her Myrk Maiden identity behind her as she is faced with countless attacks on her psyche and the tentative new faith she clings to, growing increasingly concerned about the fate of the world and her place amidst the chaos. Her father, the new Shadow leader, wants her dead—or worse, alive. Her friends have staggering expectations for her. And the Myrk God is not content with the loss of his daughter of darkness… As conspiracies unravel and world leaders choose their alliances, Twilight must gather an army to withstand the scheming of political powers and the powers of darkness as she finds herself torn between terror, unbelief, and the promises of the light, should she choose to accept them. |
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Runeheart by Gino C. R. Marchetti, II Rune is a two-centuries-old werewolf who has spent his life seeking to give meaning to his curse while atoning for the damage it has caused. This quest for purpose has left him scarred in body and soul, however, and the truth and clean conscience he has sought have proved elusive. Despite his efforts to resist the seductive allure of his otherworldly nature’s siren song, the monster within proves difficult to control. During a blizzard, a family of war refugees chances upon his secluded home while seeking shelter. Though Rune hesitates to welcome them, fearful they will discover his secrets and come to harm, he relents when they invoke a sacred rite of hospitality. Despite his efforts to keep his distance, Rune comes to care for the family, unaware his bond with these strangers will change the fate of everyone. As the family prepares to depart, Rune learns of unforeseen dangers that lie ahead for them, dangers from which he alone has the power to guard them. Bound by his oath of hospitality and his growing concern for the family, Rune vows to guide them to safety. However, the greatest danger proves to be that posed by the darkness he bears within his own heart. This darkness, however, is not so easily conquered. |
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Sasha of the Feral Sons: Adolescence by V.L Kinnaman The young vampiress Sasha, Daughter of Hal, is sent away from her home to protect her from both herself and her brother, Tekor. Though she believes herself to be better and stronger than him, there are cultural norms which must be maintained. Now a new member of a new household, she must come to terms with her changed status in life. Her new father Vidar, an intelligent Lord Protector, sees the potential that Sasha could play in the wider political landscape that is going on all around them. Though he knows that the people may not yet be ready for one such as her, he will seek to give her the greatest amount of preparation for her possible larger role to come. With help from her new brother Belor, as well as the townsfolk, Sasha strives to truly learn the way the world really works beyond the manor walls she was born behind. |
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Blood Empire Burning by C. Thomas Lafollette Revenge is a dish best served explosively. Luke and his werewolves are juggling multiple plots throughout several countries in their quest for vengeance. But after rescuing Roxi, Luke adds one more problem to his slate. The compulsion Mithras placed on them is killing her. Luke must convince the god to show mercy to Roxi, or he’ll add the god to his list of enemies. But with a masquerade ball to plan and several traps to lay, his plans dangle by a fraying thread. The brutal leader of the vampires is on the hunt for the mysterious the man subverting his werewolf minions. In this deadly game of cat and mouse, Luke must ensure he remains the cat if he doesn’t want to wind up in the trap. But one mistake could bring the whole house of cards exploding around his ears… |
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With A Vengeance by FreydĂs Moon Kye Lovato left their hometown in search of a better future, but when their estranged mother passes away, they return to their parish to settle her affairs. Even though Kye escaped their traumatic past, being back in swampy Madison, Louisiana only worsens their debilitating depression, increases their dissociative episodes, and intensifies the intrusive voice plaguing their every thought. The moment Kye steps foot into their childhood home, they know something is wrong. That night, they come face to face with the shadowy presence driving them mad: the handsome demon duke, Eli, who offers them an irresistible deal. In exchange for their soul, Eli will give them pain, pleasure, and power. Kye set a path for themself—live fast, die young—and Eli seems like the perfect exit route. With nothing to lose, they agree. But after an impromptu visit from a local ICE agent, Kye forms an unlikely friendship with their mother’s bookkeeper and stumbles into an insidious mystery surrounding their family’s homegrown alebrije business. Met with ghosts, displaced employees, and a garage filled with unfinished artwork, Kye can’t help but wonder. . . What was their mother hiding? And why is a rogue officer interested in Lovato Alebrijes? Kye is possessed, unkempt, and chasing death, but as stubborn as they are, they’re the only person left alive who can resurrect the family business and carry the Lovato legacy, and their only ally is the demon possessing them. |
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We Deserve to Exist by Allison Baggett-Rowe, Joris Filipp, Bernardo Villela, Tyler Wittkofsky, Rashmi Agrawal, Daphne Fama, Tessa Hastjarjanto, Marisca Pichette, Emmie Chris The world is not kind. It never was. Fear, jealousy, and anger fuel the actions of those who wish to assert their power and eliminate those they deem unworthy. There will come a time of reclamation—whether by force or by empathy—when those tides shift, a balance reborn. It must start somewhere. The reclamation of self, of culture, of heritage, and of our world—starts within. No longer will those around us decide if we deserve to exist. |
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The Cinderella Hour: An Epic Fallen Angel Fantasy Series (A Game of Lost Souls Book 1) by Lisa Silverthorne An Epic Fallen Angel Fantasy Series A bitter angel of death. A broken Hollywood star. A wager with Lucifer. A TV matchmaking show. Add a little magic, a whole lotta demons, and a dash of true love— For a match made in Heaven. Talia’s hatred for humans forcesAzrael,Archangel of Death, to accept a wager with Lucifer: save two lost souls on a TV matchmaking show without her wings and halo or fall from Heaven. Jack Casey is a broken Hollywood star on the fast track to oblivion.Desperate to save his failing career, he joins a low-budget reality TV show as one of three princes vying for a Hollywood princess match. Winning back to fame. Can she get her wings back…without falling in love with him? Will her love be enough to save them both? The Cinderella Hour is the first book in the enchanting romantic fallen angel fantasy series, A Game of Lost Souls. |
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Stolen Prophet: The Prophet's Mother (Book 1) by Julian M Coleman Will It Take a MONSTER to Find a Missing Prophet? An intense and erotic urban fantasy from the IAN 2016 Outstanding Paranormal/Supernatural book of the Year author. Right at the beginning of The Prophet's Mother trilogy, Julian M. Coleman weaves a haunting tale of parental loss, heartbreak, and sacrifice. Evie Adamson isn't ordinary despite her outward beauty. She's much more than a single mother and flower shop owner. In reality, she's a demigoddess. Victor is her intellectual and psychic nine-year-old son. He's nicknamed "prophet" by his classmates, a label he hates. Somehow his paranormal ability seems to fail him when he is kidnapped after leaving the school playground. Evie, who swore off using her dark powers, is beyond hysterical. She's also supremely ticked off. How dare someone take her child?! She uses her supernatural arsenal in the guise of a vengeful black SPIRIT. Distraught and enraged, she hunts the snow-encased city during the holiday season. Dead bodies pile up in the morgue. There's only one person who can find the stolen prophet: the logical and determined Homicide Detective, Harry Kurosawa. But first, he must believe the unexplainable, or more people will die. |
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The Night of Red Dusk: A Novel by Robert Caufield Forget everything you thought you knew about vampires. These go far beyond your traditional creatures of the night. Following a failed mission of diplomacy in the New World, a mysterious woman vampire hunter must join forces with a rogue warrior of her greatest enemies to uncover the buried truth of the mutagenic virus, which lies in the ruins of her own New England hometown, as an ancient entity that stalked her childhood now threatens to extinguish the soul of human and vampire kind alike. Their journey leads to horrific revelations, but can the unlikely pair return in time to stop the 'Night of Red Dusk'? The Night of Red Dusk combines a forensic approach to its titular monsters with a clash of European folklore meeting political espionage, in the vein of Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan's The Strain Trilogy, along with haunting small town horror inspired by the legendary works of Stephen King (IT, 'Salem's Lot). |
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The Unusual Possession of Alastair Stubb: A Gothic Tale by John Michael Griffin It is the turn of the last century in the unusual village of Muchmarsh. Theodore Stubb is within the attic of his manor house, adding another specimen to his extensive collection of insects. As well as an entomologist, he is a master hypnotist. Eleanor – taken from the sanatorium two months before – is still haunted, believing that her stillborn child Alastair lives and hides in the shadows. She becomes pregnant again by the hypnotic coercion and ravishment of her father-in-law Theodore. The murder, mystery and intrigue which follow leave dreadful secrets to be uncovered; and thirteen years later, paranormal events causes the young Alastair to lose his identity… A gothic terror heralds the climax of dream-like and hallucinatory events, secrets unfolding, both disturbing and astonishing. "A beautifully described dark, Gothic tale..." "Unpredicatable, creepy - and often very funny." "Unusual and Gripping" |
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The Mark of Things Unwanted (The Witches of Wyldeden Chronicles Book 1) by Alex Clifford SURRENDER YOUR HEART to this fresh, new-adult, queer fantasy series. Full of magic, 'The Mark of Things Unwanted' gives you found family and gentle romance all while taking you on a spellbinding adventure. Cinn will never die. It should have made him powerful. It didn't. On the run, hunted by a cruel princess and chased by beasts that want to feast on him for eternity, Cinn would do anything to be safe. Including allying himself with a band of dangerous witches. Like Eaon. Touched by a death that lingers on his skin, Eaon is slowly losing himself to the dark power within. In the depths of a whispering forest, a family is forged and—together—they will change the world. |
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The Mark for Those Unbound: The Witches of Wyldeden Chronicles by Alex Clifford TRUTH HAS A KEY KEEPER The Kinner will never die. It was meant to be a blessing. Now it's a curse. Alone on the other side of the wards, Cinn is keenly aware of the drawbacks of immortality. They haunt his past, plague his dreams, and darken his future. Desperate for hope, Cinn braves a new world on a stranger's promise: Moyra Thorne has the answers. But finding her seems impossible, and getting her to share them even more so. With danger chasing his friends and family back in Nir, there isn't time to waste. |
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Ruin and Roses (Cursed Kingdoms) by Deanna Ortega A dark and spicy fantasy romance that follows Jane as she delves into the shadows, secrets, and curses that bind her world. "I will never understand why women let men decide if they get to be the villain or the victim in their story." In a world of talisman powers and magical rivalry, Jane finds herself playing many roles-depending on the situation, she is either as soft as a rose petal or as lethal as the thorn. Swept deeper into a world of shadows and lies when her mentor, Baltazar sends her on a seemingly simple mission-donning the mask of dainty again, she finds herself fighting to maintain who she is beyond her pretty, painted exterior. The series of events to follow rip her in and out of her past, as she tries to move on from the unimaginable pain that led her to this life. Stealing from your soon-to-be fiancé is one hell of a wedding gift, but let's hope he never discovers she is dodging eyes, lies, and daggers-while ensuring that not a hair is out of place for her royal obligations. But...what if half-truths can't prepare her for this life? And when the mission's cost is more than she bargained for-her freedom and her life-what if she doesn't want to pay the price? At least she still carries the favor of her loyal mare. And though her luck in love is not great, it is never hard for her to find some way to quench her thirst in her droughted kingdom. When her fiancé isn't lurking over his newest possession, she is easily entertained with her ex-lover and unwanted keeper. Entangled with a lost love, whose secrets threaten to undo everything she's worked towards, she has to manage the most daunting mission yet. An unfit marriage to the mad king's son. Will the cursed king's daughter survive? "Looking into his eyes-the same ones I pictured every time mine closed-I wondered if things would have been different, if my mother had told me stories about great loves instead of tragic loss. But she hadn't. And though I lived in a world of royals, I knew that princes weren't noble, and that love didn't prevail." |
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In this suspenseful portal fantasy, thirteen-year-old Qadira is faced with the reality that to be queen, her eight siblings must die. Decreed by the Ahmaran deity that only one heir can live to ascend the throne, Qadira is forced into a sudden fight to the death with her siblings to see who will rule. The problem? She doesn’t want to kill anyone. But when she accidentally causes the death of one of her siblings, all sights are turned on her as the most dangerous threat. With all the heirs coming at her full force, she makes an unexpected ally—a disembodied voice that whispers terrible things and promises her survival and eventual queenship if she releases him. Despite how much she wishes to escape, she’s stuck in the palace with magic and blade-wielding siblings seeking her death. It’s only then, with death whispering in her ear and tragedies manifesting in everything she touches, she realizes there is only one truth: she either kills her siblings and lives to become a murderous queen, or she lets herself be killed in hopes her soul will have peace. |
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Bone River: Book 1 of The Aspect Wars by Jesse Sprague Haunted by a tragic loss, one woman defies the laws of magic. But will the cost of freedom claim her last breath? Flynt is devastated by her husband’s untimely demise on a space station hub. Not only is she drowning in grief for a man she truly loved, he was the only one protecting her from the fate that killed her mother. Vowing to avoid the twisted law that her race must become breeders, Flynt’s heartbreak awakens her high-stakes ability to manipulate death. Training to control her deadly new skills at a forbidden school, her magical gift hides a formidable power not seen in centuries. But when the queen falls gravely ill, only Flynt can save her life… if she can prove she’s not the necromancer to blame. Can she expose the devious truth before she’s cast out to die? Bone River is the explosive first book in the Last Necro-Equitem dark science fiction fantasy series. If you like relentless heroines, mind-blowing worldbuilding, and epic battles against evil, then you’ll love Jesse Sprague’s spellbinding tale. |
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Epoch of the Promise: Vision's Light by Raina Nightingale The Empire of Hasseleighton stretches ominous wings across Camil, forcing everyone to choose between allegiance or death. Arendellie’s life is torn apart, as her friends choose fanaticism over living in peace. So when she is given the opportunity to be presented to the Prince’s court as a potential bride, Arendellie takes it, hoping to forget her lost friends and the choices they made in the game of court. But how can she hide from a conflict that is everywhere and a choice that has been forced on everyone? Or from the light that streams through the cracks of her shattered world? The choice was never forced on Azshbir. He left the safe seclusion of the mountains to bring a message of hope to the world. But when he is imprisoned on a charge of supporting the Empire’s conquests, Azshbir wishes he had died long ago so he would not leave a pregnant wife to struggle on her own. Can the vision of his hope shine through the darkness of his despair? |
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Epoch of the Promise: Dawn Unseen by Raina Nightingale All the dragon Camri knows is that life is dying. In a bid for immortality, she sets out on a rampage of torment and conquest. When Cassian and her play-mates explored a cave, they woke a tormented dragon, twisted with unnatural powers. Now Cassian is bonded to Camri as a rider is bonded to a dragon, even while Camri destroys all she knows and loves. There is nothing she can do except try to appease Camri, but sometimes Camri’s atrocities are so horrible they drive Cassian to a defiance she always regrets. Punished by the death and torture of the people and dragons she loves, Cassian wishes to die, but is kept alive by Camri’s magic. When no kingdom or wizard has been able to stand against Camri, can Cassian see the Promise of relief when it stares her in the face? Or will she commit the greatest of her bonded dragon’s atrocities by her own hand? “When twilight gloom has turned to darkest night, watch for your hope, the long-awaited Promise, for it is in the darkest and coldest of night that the Morning Star rises.” |
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The Dark Cry of Astrid by William Brian Johnson A forgotten village strikes a desperate bargain - and brings down the wrath of the gods. The village of Elta was once the first protection against giant attacks in the kingdom. But since the threat has been extinguished, the village has been forgotten... just when the villagers need protection the most. A late summer hailstorm destroys the crops and livestock that will take Elta through the winter. The White Citadel refuses aid. To stave off starvation, the local midwife turns to witchcraft forbidden by the Allfather. Lofn summons an ancient entity by accident. She is found guilty and sentenced to execution. When her burning at the stake goes horribly awry. The investigative arm of the White Citadel dispatches the magistrate during Elta’s endless night and it ignites a civil war and threatens to start a war between the gods. The Dark Cry of Aristid is based on Norse mythology and folklore. For readers of Tolkien, Glen Cook, and Grimdark adventures. |
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Paper Ghosts by Tegan Anderson A story from the Paper Forest... Once upon a time, the Forest burned to the ground, embers and ashes coating the world in an ocean of black. Rowan walks through the remains of a kingdom that used to belong to her. |
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Misericorde (Mercy Series Book 1) by Cynthia A. Morgan Independent Author Network 2020 Book of the Year Winner for Fantasy!|Readers Favorite 2020 Silver Medal Winner for Fantasy!It's the year 2446, and the first three Horsemen of Revelation's Apocalypsehave ridden. Pestilence, War and Famine have changed the world into adictatorship ruled with an iron fist. Commoners have few rights, andliberty is a distant memory. Before thefinal Horseman is released, the Archangel of Mercy - Tzadkiel - makes abold plea, asking for permission to find even one human who remembersthe meaning of mercy and compassion. He is given 100 years, until Deathwill sweep across the land. Taking humanform and coming to Earth, he finds a place ruled by greed, hatred andfear. With time running out and Death growing impatient, can Tzadkielfind what he's looking for, and how much will he need to sacrifice? |
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Lady of the Helm (The Bloodline Trilogy) by T.O Munro For 5 years Niarmit, once a priestess and a princess of the Salved people, has been an orphan, thief, outlaw and assassin in her own land. For a thousand years Maelgrum, enslaver of the Salved, has been imprisoned and forgotten. Now, from the mountain fortress of Sturmcairn to the forests of Hershwood and beyond, the Salved Kingdom will quake at the dark lord’s return. And Niarmit must choose. Can she aid a people who abandoned her and her father? overcome her darkest fears of madness and betrayal? find a way to kill that which is already dead? *** "He savoured the moment as he stood at the foot of the outsized bed, loosening the straps of the battered steel breastplate. He tried to gauge from the quivers in the bed clothes where the captain had hidden this evening’s frightened plaything. He guessed which side just as the metal armour fell silently to the marbled floor. Flinging aside the bedding, he had just a moment to register the oddity of the noiseless clang of metal on stone before he saw her. She was not the type that the captain normally picked out for him. In a second he saw she was older, just past the end of adolescence as far as he was any judge of human flesh. Taller than most and sinewy, clad in dark shirt and breeches rather than the night shift he expected. Flame red hair spilled across her shoulders and green eyes blazed at him with a defiance rare in someone brought before Mayor Nordag. Rather than lying trembling within the folds of bedding this one crouched on her haunches looking up at him. The final abnormality he had time to notice was that her hands were not bound behind her, but free infront of her. One held a glinting steel dirk and the other fist grasped a crescent talisman. Then she erupted like one of those amusing jack-in-the-box toys that more astute freeholders had learned to give Nordag as a gift. Driving upwards sword arm outstretched before her, she sprang towards him, driving her blade into his throat even as his mouth gaped open in astonishment. Standing now on the edge of the table her face was level with his chin, her green eyes glaring into his dimming yellow ones." |
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Wrath of the Medusa (The Bloodline Trilogy) by T.O.Munro Niarmit has, for the moment, escaped the curse of the Great Helm and the grasp of the Dark Lord. Accepting at last a destiny which she never sought, her hopes of uniting the Salved people now rest on the uncertain loyalty of Prince Rugan and his army. Dema the Medusa broods in the captured fortress of Listcairn consumed by a rage for glory, to the consternation of friend and enemy alike. Hepdida strives to live up to Niarmit’s expectations but finds that old nightmares can still haunt her days and that a palace can hold more peril than a battlefield. And through it all, Maelgrum weaves his malice as the guilty and the innocent are driven to fulfil his millennium long wait for revenge. *** The Medusa’s hood was down and her mask was off as she carved, bit and stoned her way towards Rugan’s standard. Even her allies gave her and her steed a wide birth as, at the peak of her powers and the crest of her rage, she swept all before her. A silver soldier, braver than the rest, dared to ride near and catch her sword with his. Their blades both wet with blood of different hues, slid down until they were locked hilt to hilt. “Major, no,” a voice called. “Leave this abomination to me.” Too late, the soldier’s eyes met the Medusa’s sparkling gaze and with an inward breath he turned to overbalanced stone. His mount buckled beneath the weight and the leaning statue of the rider toppled against Dema’s palfrey. As the horse slid and skittered its way free of the falling new formed masonry, Dema slipped from the listing saddle and turned to face the owner of the voice. |
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Queen of Rats by Chris R. Sendrowski Imprisoned in the vast sewer system beneath the jungle city of Nethra, Ember Wellen, a musician of unparalleled talent, has one desire: avenge the murder of her sister. But to do so, she must save the city from the wicked king and stop a long-forgotten nightmare gestating beneath the city streets. Win or lose, no one will survive unscathed, not even the Queen of Rats. Queen of Rats is a dark fantasy novel filled with action and magic set in the same world as Chris R. Sendrowski's other novels, Haliden's Fire and Dregs of the Culver Waste. |
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Below Dark Waters (Dalya) by Katie Zaber A wayward princess, an adventurous pirate, and a madam trained in espionage—all strangers to each other, but their fates are entwined. Princess Megan, who never had a reason to assume she was anything but human, has been on the run, protected by her friends. With each step toward the city of Delmont, she hopes they will have time to regroup before setting sail to the Ka'Pamau Islands, their final destination. Instead, her bad luck shadows her and chaos continues to ensue everywhere she goes—including a new part of the world that most air breathers have yet to explore. Confronted with another royal family and a smitten prince whose advances turn cold, she faces another life-altering decision with ramifications she can't possibly begin to guess at. Back on land, Lilly reveals more of her secrets, her story, and her goals. Monumental changes and challenges are headed her way as she embraces her new role in life. On the sea, Aunt Carmia is stirring up trouble while continuing her hunt for the treasure she most desires. She experiences upheavals, but she is always prepared for the unknown. As their stories unfold, they remain unaware how fate connects them in the world of Dalya. |
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When We Were Still Human (A Eulogy for Our Humanity Book 1) by Vaughn J. Foster After the curse of the angels' sins, seven lives were destroyed and rebuilt;Those who were born monsters and those who became, all faced with two terrifying questions:What does it mean to live forever and what does it mean to destroy the world?Val was the nursing student-turned ghoul. Avia was a high-functioning addict leaping between realms. Reborn as "Gluttony" and "Wrath," these young women must survive a new world where every myth is real and every creature, dethroned god, and spirit lusts for their power.As Val and Avia discover the dark truths both worlds have fought to hide, they must decide for themselves if humanity would truly be worth saving. From the reincarnation of the first vampire to the buried massacre of the fae, one must ask the question:"What really makes a villain after all?" |
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The Chromatic Court by Various Have you ever been haunted by a work of art? You may not be merely captured by the craft, but by something that lies in the work's depths. Something admiring you as you admire it. Do you know the King in Yellow? The Sepia Prince? The Duke of Rust? Have you heard their whispers coming to you from dried up parchment and faded photographs? Maybe another member of the King's court has lit upon your life, casting shadows and doubts. Do you worship them, fear them, revere them, or simply seek to understand them? These hallowed nobles who hold court around the King. Each noble holds an artform in their wavelength. For their color to shine, that art must practiced. There are no older or younger members of the court. Each has existed since before time was a concept they entertained. All of culture has evolved to suit their needs. Art is in the eye of the beholder, and color is only an abstract concept. The Chromatic Court is very real, you reading this has assured that... A Lovecraftian dark fantasy collection from Peter Rawlik, featuring all new stories by: Glynn Owen Barass, David Bernard, Jon Black, Simon Bucher-Jones, John Linwood Grant, Micah S. Harris, Rick Lai, MaTT Loughlin, Paul StJohn Mackintosh, Christine Morgan, Logan Noble, & Joseph S. Pulver Sr. Illustrations by Johannes Chazot. Design by Sophie Iles. |
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Shadow Kissed (The Shadow Kissed Series) by Rebecca L. Garcia Some fates belong to the shadows… Olivia knows everyone at the guild is on high alert, but no one will tell her why. She’s certain the death of her boyfriend is behind it, but the truth is far worse. Darkness has come to the mortal kingdom. When the guild protecting them is attacked by vampires, Olivia is swept away from the safety of her home when her mom and best friend are taken. Before she can get away, she’s captured by a vampire, Sebastian, who insists he’s protecting her. But when she’s taken to the City of Nightmares, the most dangerous place in the vampire kingdom she realizes she’s been made prisoner. As she fights to survive in a world where mortals are nothing more than things to be fed on or traded, Olivia must use her wits and place her trust in the handsome, but deadly Sebastian, if she’s going to figure out a way to save her loved ones. However, some of the world's most vicious vampires want her dead. Others want her for themselves. When the truth comes out, Olivia realizes the ones she loves have been shielding her from a fate worse than death. Can she escape the clutches of her bloody destiny, or will she succumb to the shadows? Shadow Kissed is a New Adult Fantasy Romance, book one in the Marked by Blood Trilogy releasing in 2022. Get your copy now and delve into this dark and delicious world of vampires and mortals. |
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The Scarecrow Hunters: Glint & Shade Book One by Eric Shane Love A new dark fantasy series from Eric Shane Love. An epic quest, strange creatures, and an ancient wood full of sinister mysteries. Join Eliot on his mission to find and destroy the scarecrow. In the valley of Gal-Braith, a tradition has existed for as long as anyone can remember. It is the tradition of the kohlas: a journey all boys begin on their seventh birthday. A quest to find and destroy the scarecrow. Born from an agreement between the people of the valley generations back and the low energy of the Dark Wood, no one remembers how the kohlas began and few question if it should continue. Aided only by a strange group of woodsmen, Eliot begins his kohlas like all the others. But a seed planted deep inside him by his estranged mother makes his journey different from the rest. For readers of the Dark Tower Series, dark fantasy, and gothic horror fiction, this is a satisfying fever dream of twisted characters set in a macabre forest in the land of Glint & Shade. |
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A Greedy Shadow: Glint & Shade Book Two by Eric Shane Love Book two in the Glint & Shade series from Eric Shane Love. A reluctant hope, hungry darkness, and a haunting pact. Join Eliot as he learns to live outside the shadow of the Dark Wood. Eliot survived his coming-of-age rite of passage, his kohlas . . . but dark things leave dark stains. Even as he is drawn to the safety he feels among new friends, he learns of another darkness: a shadow that is hungry with lust and greedy for him. Nightmares plague him, a hideous band of cannibalistic barbarians are on the move, and Eliot doesn’t trust the hope he feels. But the worst part may be the secret scratching in the back of his mind: when will the woodsmen come for him? For readers of the Dark Tower Series, dark fantasy, and gothic horror fiction, this is a satisfying fever dream of twisted characters set in the land of Glint & Shade. Note: Some scenes in A Greedy Shadow may be triggering for some readers due to graphic imagery of sexual violence. |
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Midnight Crown (The Shadow Kissed Series) by Rebecca L. Garcia In three days, the princess will be dead... Olivia's magic has awakened. The only problem is she will soon lose it to vampirism. While she's not ready to become one of the monsters she hates, if she tries to escape, her friends will die. Finding herself in the middle of a dark web of politics, Olivia worries she may not live long enough to become a vampire. With deadly plots and schemes against her, she must fight for survival while figuring out her place in the nefarious kingdom. A marriage to the broody, unwilling Sebastian, will seal her fate, but it may destroy them both. With it, she will gain a crown, and all the enemies that come with it. Can she save her soul, or will she lose herself to the same darkness her loved ones have fallen prey to? This is a dark fantasy romance and contains many triggers, such as graphic sex scenes, violence, attempted rape, enslavement, human trafficking in adults, blood play, torture, and murder. This book is intended for readers aged 18+. |
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The Violet Curse (Leviathans Book 1) by Senna Crow A supernatural explosion of violet-colored light nearly destroys a corrupt city called Five Tower. In the aftermath, a child with unusual green eyes is found in the glassy black crater that is left behind. “She is not human,” warns a member of the city guard. “She cannot be.” But the Black Temple doctor John Ivan refuses to believe in paranormal forces, and he saves the girl who later becomes his daughter. Duty, desperation, and dread become destructive forces in John’s life as the world erupts into chaos about him and his family. He continues to deny the paranormal threat his daughter faces even as the evidence mounts before him. He fights losing his family to war, illness, shadow creatures only the Violet Cursed can see, and the deadly, world-ending schemes of Five Tower. With infiltrators in every organization and cursed magic gone awry, John is in a fight he cannot win. A thief named Lukas jeopardizes any possibility of peace. John’s brother is involved in a treacherous lie, and John’s daughter Nymeria is somehow tied to the terrifying “Violet Curse.” Worse, their allies may be enemies. What will it cost him to keep his family safe? |
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Garnet Fire (Gemstone Witch Series Book 1) by Ana Michelle McKenna Pomengale has spent her entire life within the safety of her Coven’s Farm in Texas. There she not only learned live off the land but how to walk the Astral Plains, keeping the universe balanced. When her and every member of her coven is pulled from the plains and unable to gain entrance to them again McKenna must leave the only home she has ever known. She has to travel to the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Upon her arrival she must search out the Guardians and learn the secrets they have protected for all these years. Learning to trust others outside of her coven while insuring her of her coven’s survival is paramount. |
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Scotopia: First Dusk by Spencer Pizzani In the shadows of Morton City, children are screened in secret for the gift driving a secret war. Selwyn has always embraced her elegant darkness, from her gothic style to an affinity for the sublime. When an impossible illness threatens her sanity, her attempts to uncover the truth will attract the attention of a dangerous organization wielding more than influence bought by corruption. Suddenly, everyone but her knows the rules of a deadly game where she has become the prize. To survive, she will have to learn the depths of her Scotopia, and learn why the darkness within her is more than just a calling. |