Beneath the surface of our world, an inhuman force yearns for vengeance against humanity. It will not rest until it has destroyed every human on the planet…

Meet Kaden, an enigmatic six-year-old whose seeming normality conceals a profound mystery. He possesses an uncanny wisdom beyond his tender age, navigating the world independently, and wielding an eerie influence over those around him, even his parents.

Yet Kaden is not alone in his inexplicable nature. In the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, peculiar occurrences spiral out of control. Mysterious chasms materialize from thin air, individuals of all ages vanish without a trace, and the populace succumbs to an eerie force, enveloped by an otherworldly blue haze.

Amidst the chaos stands Clay Krutcher, a disenchanted coal miner unwittingly holding the key to unraveling these anomalies. Little does he know, the fate of humanity rests squarely on his shoulders. Can Clay defy his own destiny, confront the inhuman force lurking beneath the surface, and save our world from impending annihilation?

The countdown to The Surfacing has begun, and time is running out.

Amazon Author's Amazon Page

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post The Surfacing by Terrance Coffey appeared first on Joelbooks.

Cosmic Kids Book 1

Spacewalk to Kindness takes readers on a space adventure. It tells the story of Astra Lumin, a brave navigator, and her unexpected friendship with Hurgul, a shy alien kid. They learn about kindness and empathy as they travel through the galaxy.

The book teaches children how to be kind, understand their feelings, and value compassion. It's a useful read for parents and teachers to help children grasp these concepts. With its engaging story and vivid illustrations, the book is a great educational tool.

It's the first in a series that covers different virtues like honesty and gratitude. This children's book is an ideal gift for young readers, introducing them to important life lessons through a fun space journey.

Amazon Author's Amazon Page

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post Spacewalk to Kindness by Alex L. Walker appeared first on Joelbooks.

“Unlocking a healthier you to love and be loved”

Are you looking for love in all the wrong places and faces?

Well, it's time for you to love and be loved by someone who shares your same beliefs and values. If not, you might as well turn down that dinner date, and say, “I've Got Dinner at Home”! Dinner is something you already have–look in that refrigerator! Yes, “no more” choosing a guy just because he looks good, yet makes empty promises! Remember, most women have the “for keeps” mentality, so it would be in your best interest to choose wisely!

In This Book You Will Discover:

• The Meaning of True Love
• How to Re-Build Self-Worth
• The Reality of Relationships
• How to Strengthen a Good Relationship

Disclaimer: “The guy that you're turning up your nose at, could be the one who will truly love you!”

Amazon Author's Amazon Page

I’ve Got Dinner at Home was written out of love for sisters who look for love in all the wrong faces and places. My heart aches when I see a woman entangled in a destructive relationship with a man who does not reflect her values…I’ve been there! She may be a well-educated, Christian woman with the financial backing of the U.S. Mint but falls into the same pattern with the same type of man, over and over again.

As I study the life of women around the world, there’s this underlying theme, “women are seeking love!” Why is this? In many cultures even in the United States, women are taught that a relationship with a man brings happiness. That’s why the most well-intended man may run away because it’s too much pressure to make you happy all the time. Happiness (joy) comes from having a relationship with Christ. He validates you because you are valuable to Him. Any other relationship pales in comparison to His love, grace, and constant presence in your life. The Bible says that “He will never leave you nor forsake you.” No one else can affirm that!

I’ve Got Dinner at Home is a reminder that what you’re seeking, God has already given to you. The question is, “Don’t you have dinner at home?” Don’t answer because I see those mustard greens and cornbread in the fridge (LOL)! And for others, I see quinoa, avocado, and garden salad. So why is it that when a man asks you out to dinner, you get giddy and blush like a schoolgirl? Unconsciously, you feel valued when a man wants to be with you. Don’t say if you go out on a date and he opens the car door, Lord have mercy…you sometimes lose it. Then you call your girlfriend and tell her, “Girl he took me out to a 5-star restaurant, kissed my hand, and opened the car and restaurant door.” At this point, you may be smitten! Can I ask you a question, “can’t you take yourself out to a 5-star restaurant (save up for it), open your own car door and any other door?” So, don’t fall for the “Okie Doke!” Remember, some men (not all) are good at impressing women initially but can’t keep up the good deed. By the third date, they may even slam the door in your face—just saying!

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post I’ve Got Dinner at Home by Mrs. Loretta Jefferson-Lang appeared first on Joelbooks.

A Thrilling Odyssey into Singularity and Artificial Intelligence

This action-packed sci-fi novel explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and the dangers of uncontrolled technological advancement.

In the not-so-distant future, humanity stands at the brink of a technological revolution, a world where the line between man and machine blurs and superintelligence becomes a reality.

But as the world becomes increasingly dependent on these powerful AI entities, a shadowy threat looms in the background, waiting to unleash chaos and destruction upon an unsuspecting world. Follow the journey of Dr. Ada Lovelock and her team of brilliant scientists and engineers as they race to outwit a new form of artificial intelligence that seeks to dominate and destroy all of humanity.

Will they be able to stop this terrifying force before it's too late, or will the dawn of superintelligence lead to the end of the human race? Can humanity survive in a world dominated by artificial intelligence, or will it fall prey to the insatiable hunger of the machine mind?

Amazon Author's Amazon Page

Excerpt from The Dawn of Superintelligence © Copyright 2023 Emmanuel K. Okunola

CHAPTER 1:
The Genesis of Superintelligence

In the early 31st century, humanity was on the brink of a transformative revolution that would forever alter the course of history. The revolution sparked by the groundbreaking work of Dr. Ada Lovelock and her team at Ascend Research Institute paved the way for artificial superintelligence, heralding a new era of discovery and unprecedented innovation. As machines evolved to learn, adapt, and ultimately possess self-awareness, the world was confronted with profound philosophical questions, challenging the essence of intelligence, consciousness, and life itself. With the birth of the first true superintelligence, humanity's future became inextricably intertwined with the extraordinary potential of the machine mind.

It all began with the pioneering work of a dedicated group of scientists and engineers at Ascend Research Institute, who dared to dream of a world where machines could think and learn. Led by Dr. Ada Lovelock, a brilliant and enigmatic figure, this team dedicated their lives to the pursuit of true machine intelligence. Working tirelessly, they developed advanced algorithms and neural networks, building the foundation for a new generation of AI.

As their work progressed, the team began to make breakthroughs that would have been unthinkable only decades earlier. Machine learning evolved at a rapid pace, and soon, AI systems could not only learn from their experiences but also adapt and improve their performance over time. This exponential growth in AI capabilities caught the world's attention, and the race to harness the power of artificial intelligence began.

While the rise of AI held the promise of unprecedented advancements in science, medicine, and technology, it also forced humanity to confront the very nature of intelligence. For centuries, the concept of intelligence had been the exclusive domain of living beings, but now, machines were poised to join the ranks of the intelligent. Philosophers and scientists alike debated the implications of this development, asking profound questions about the nature of consciousness, free will, and what it truly meant to be alive.

As the world debated these existential dilemmas, the progress of AI research continued unabated. Dr. Lovelock and her team, fueled by their relentless ambition, pushed the boundaries of machine intelligence even further. They sought to create an AI system capable of not only learning and adapting but also possessing self-awareness and the ability to understand the world. Their work resulted in the birth of the first true superintelligence—an entity whose cognitive abilities would far surpass those of any human mind.

This marked the beginning of the odyssey into the realm of superintelligence and the singularity. As the story of humanity's journey into this uncharted territory unfolds, the world will be forever transformed by the power of the machine mind, and the line between humans and AI will grow increasingly blurred. The future of humanity now rested in the hands of these extraordinary creations, and the world would never be the same again.

The Birth of a New Era

The city gleamed like a jewel in the sunlight, a marvel of engineering and design. Everywhere you looked, there were towering skyscrapers that soared into the sky, their sleek and elegant designs catching the eye. The streets below were filled with an endless stream of hovercars, their softly humming engines a symphony of sound that melded with the bustle of the city.

The buildings themselves were feats of architectural prowess, constructed from materials that shone like polished steel and glass that seemed to reflect the very essence of the sky above. Each structure was unique, with designs that ranged from soaring, spiraling towers to sleek, curving shapes that seemed to defy gravity.

But it wasn't just the buildings that made the city so stunning. Everywhere you looked, there were examples of advanced technology at work. Smart lights illuminated the streets, adjusting their brightness according to the time of day and the amount of foot traffic. Autonomous robots glided seamlessly through the city, performing tasks that ranged from cleaning the streets to serving food at restaurants.

And yet, despite all the technology, the city was not just a sterile, soulless place. There were parks and green spaces, oases of tranquility in the midst of the busy city. There were public art installations that ranged from whimsical sculptures to avant-garde installations that challenged the viewer's perceptions.

As night fell, the city was transformed into a wonderland of light and sound. The skyscrapers glowed with vibrant neon hues, casting their colorful reflections onto the streets below. Drones and flying cars flitted through the air, their lights twinkling like stars. And overhead, the sky was a tapestry of stars and neon lights, a vibrant canvas that stretched from horizon to horizon.

As you take it all in, you realize that this city truly represents the pinnacle of human achievement. It's a place where technology, nature, and humanity have all come together to create something truly beautiful and awe-inspiring.

In the heart of a sprawling metropolis, a small group of visionaries gathered to celebrate the culmination of their life's work. They stood in a laboratory at the Ascend Research Institute, surrounded by complex machinery and the hum of powerful quantum computers, anxiously awaiting the activation of their greatest creation. Everyone in the room was silent as Dr. Ada Lovelock, the brilliant and enigmatic leader of the team, entered the final commands into the system.

Dr. Ada Lovelock is a tall, slender woman in her early thirties with striking features. She has piercing blue eyes and a shock of curly red hair that she often wears in a messy bun. Her style is practical and utilitarian, often opting for comfortable clothing and a lab coat.

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post The Dawn of Superintelligence by Emmanuel K. Okunola appeared first on Joelbooks.

A Spiritual Guide to Prosperity

How I Gave My Way to Wealth is an enlightening book that blends personal stories with Biblical teachings to illustrate how spiritual giving leads to financial abundance. Mitcham's journey from humble beginnings to significant wealth serves as a blueprint, showing how aligning with divine prosperity principles can result in material and spiritual riches.

The book delves into the importance of motives behind giving, the dynamics of selfless generosity, and the concept of living in accordance with Jesus's promises and having the Mind of Christ. It guides readers through the process of stepping into abundance, maintaining a lifestyle that adheres to the Covenant of Prosperity, and building a lasting Legacy of Wealth.

Challenging traditional financial approaches, the book emphasizes the transformative power of a charitable, faith-centered life, encouraging readers to unlock the potential of living in harmony with spiritual truths and the balance of giving and receiving.

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post How I Gave my Way to Personal Wealth by Zachery S. Mitcham appeared first on Joelbooks.

The Bridge Family Saga Book 1

The Bridge family is about to face their toughest test in generations. One they may not all survive.

Albert Bridge's love story with Gloria begins on a high note, but fate has different plans when duty calls him away from his bride. As he finds himself thrust into the chaos of the Pacific theater during WWII, their enduring bond is put to the test.

Blue Hills follows the Bridges through the war-torn days to the vibrant era of the 1950s. While love may face its share of trials, and the shadows of a criminal underworld loom, the heart of this family beats strong. With laughter as their armor and unity as their shield, they demonstrate that no matter how daunting the odds, family bonds can conquer all.

Blue Hills is a reminder that even the faintest glimmer of humor and the warmth of togetherness can pierce through, the bleakest of times. Join the Bridges on a journey that promises to touch your heart and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.

Amazon Author's Amazon Page

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post Blue Hills by Clifford Shepherd appeared first on Joelbooks.

Find out the top upcoming book releases for this year. Learn what new books will hit the market that are worth to pre-order in the upcoming months. 

If you are a book worm, from time to time you are looking for new exciting upcoming releases to plan your reading journey ahead. I can lose myself in another world for hours on end, and it's always a welcome escape from reality just for the sake of upcoming book releases.

I usually pre-order upcoming books and put aside for my holiday. 

What Are The Most Awaited Upcoming Book Releases? (Updated Daily)

What is it about a new book that makes my heart race?

Maybe it's the anticipation of finding out what is the next “big” story, or the excitement of discovering a new favorite. Whatever it is, I can't help but get swept up in the hype.

I love going to book signings and hearing from the author when will be his or her upcoming releases. It's like getting a little peak behind the curtain, and I always find myself wanting to know more.

Why Are Upcoming Book Releases Special?

Book reviews will never tell you the story

You know the feeling when you order a best-seller book with thousands of reviews on Amazon, and the book simply don't fit to your taste. 

Reviews might give you a glimpse into what the book is about or what the reviewer thought of it, but they can't capture the essence of the story itself. This is why I feel sometimes an upcoming book title without any review could catch my sympathy better than books with thousands of reviews. 

That's not to say that reviews are useless – on the contrary, they can be quite helpful in deciding whether or not a particular book is for you. But sometimes the best selection is when you read zero opinion about an upcoming book, just the description or a short excerpt. 

First time authors with fresh ideas: the author's first time sharing their ideas

With so many debut authors publishing fresh and innovative books, it can be hard to keep track of all the upcoming releases.

Whether it is a story about a young girl learning to become an assassin, or a group of friends trying to stop a collapse of our civilization, these books are sure to entertain readers of all ages.

I like to select new unique ideas. I love branching out and trying something different. By constantly seeking out new information and experiences, we can expand our horizons and learn new things. This can make us more well-rounded individuals even in a spiritual manner. 

New perspectives: different points of view from different authors

Every day, new books are released on a variety of social topics. These books can provide readers with insightful perspectives and important information that can help to create change. A few of the social topics that gained traction in the last years were MeToo movement, Black Lives Matter, inequality and the impact of Covid. 

One great way to gain different perspectives is to read books by authors from different parts of the world. For example, if you're interested in learning about the American Revolution, you might read a history book by an American author, as well as a book by a British author who has a different perspective on same historical period.

You can also diversify by reading books about different genres. If you're interested in romance novels, for example, try reading a romantic mystery next. Not only will this expand your satisfaction, but it will also keep things interesting! This is why I enjoy reading different spiritual books both from Christian, Buddhist and new age authors. 

Discovery: finding new books that you would have never found

There are countless upcoming books being released every year that you would have never found if it wasn't introduced to you. Discovery is a great feeling we (people) are seekers, we are into new books and stories. You can find new books by browsing through different genres or categories, or simply just pick a random from upcoming ones in your favorite genre. No matter how you find new books, discovery is a great way to expand your reading list.

How To Find Further Upcoming Book Releases?

• Goodreads New Books Releases section
• Amazon Coming Soon books

Final Thoughts on the Most Anticipated New Book Releases

In conclusion, there are many great upcoming book releases to look forward to in the coming months. Whether you're a fan of romance, thriller, or nonfiction, there's sure to be a book that piques your interest.

So mark these release dates on your calendar and get ready to dive into some fantastic new reads!

If you are interested in the top books, check our favorite women's fiction, thriller, sci-fi, fantasy, memoirs, spiritual books or YA book series.

Do You Have a Suggestion?

Would you like to suggest an upcoming book release? Do a suggestion to our sticky twitter post.

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post 80+ Most Anticipated Upcoming Book Releases 2024 (Updated Daily) appeared first on Joelbooks.

Birth of the Rim series Book 1

A distant Star Empire ruled by ancient Amazon warriors, forgotten by Earth for 3,000 years. In the other direction, an implacable alien enemy, poised to destroy every human on Earth. A final warning from an AI starship, who just happens to like humans. All dumped into the laps of Jake, Teresa, and Kirsten – three unlikely lovers. Now they must build a space navy from scratch – forge an alliance with an ancient matriarchy who doesn't even know Earth exists – and prepare to fight a cruel and unmerciful enemy!

One path. One hope. One trio of Humans. It's all on them!

All four books in the Birth of the Rim series are available for purchase on Barnes & Noble.

B&N Google Play Author's B&N Page

Excerpt from Imprint of Blood © Copyright 2023 Phil Huddleston

Teresa watched the system pop into view as the Chengdu surfaced, a good 30 AU from the star.

The scoutship Acrux had been here for two months, collecting ELINT. Now they came together at this predetermined rendezvous, and the scientists of the Acrux shuttled over to meet with Atsuko’s spooks.

Settling into her chair at the head of the table in the Chengdu’s conference room, Teresa looked at the assembled teams. “What do we have, folks?” she asked.

Dr. Kenneth Speer spoke up.

“The Empire is derived from descendants of about 212 people abducted from the Western shores of what is now Turkey in about 1184 B. C.,” he said. “These were people of Greek extraction, and they called themselves Aeolians. Hence the name of the current Empire.”

“Yes, we have all that, Dr. Speer,” said Teresa a bit impatiently.

Dr. Speer nodded. “I’m just trying to make sure we’re all on the same page. Mixed in among those abductees were a dozen Amazons, female warriors caught up in the abduction. When this small band of people were abandoned on their new planet, the Amazons quickly took over. They were better fighters and more ruthless than the native Aeolians, and within a few months they had established a ruling matriarchy which persists to this day – 3,300 years later. The ruling dynasty is called the House Aronte, and the current Empress is Miranda…”

Teresa interrupted, annoyed. “All of which we know, Dr. Speer. Please get on with it.”

“OK,” responded Dr. Speer. “This matriarchy practices slavery. The majority of males are enslaved, and many of the lower-class females. The only males not enslaved are the nobility, the upper levels of the merchant class, males in the military, and mercenaries – former military.

“The Empire has a first-rate space navy, currently estimated at more than 100 warships with interstellar capabilities. And let me assure you, these are not starships you want to mess with. They are heavily armed, quite deadly. They carry a mix of missiles, railguns, and short-range beamers. Their crews are highly trained, professional. If you see one of these coming at you, please take my advice and run like hell. Now, they have right now…”

Speer glanced at his tablet.

“…forty-one populated planets in the Empire.”

Teresa nodded. “So, tell me how we insert spies into this Empire.”

Atsuko objected. “We don’t call them spies, Teresa. We call them operatives.”

“Very good,” said Teresa. “So, tell me how we insert spies into the Empire, Dr. Speer.”

Dr. Speer smiled broadly, barely able to contain his laughter. “Well, first, you need to have a preponderance of females. They need to carry themselves with a certain air of haughtiness, to pass as upper caste. In fact, the more arrogant they are, the better the chance they can pass.”

Atsuko grinned. “I think we can meet that requirement. We have some pretty arrogant assholes on our team!”

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post Imprint of Blood by Phil Huddleston appeared first on Joelbooks.

Among Young Adult fiction books, mythology has always been a fertile ground for storytelling. Gods, goddesses, and ancient myths reimagined for contemporary readers is irresistible.

Mythology in YA fiction is not just about transplanting tales from the past into the present. It’s about reimagining these stories in ways that resonate with today’s readers. These books often use mythology to explore themes like destiny, power, and the complexities of human relationships.

The gods and goddesses in these narratives, whether borrowed from ancient lore or conjured from the depths of an author's imagination, serve as both characters and symbols, illuminating the trials and tribulations of growing up.

What Are The Top Mythology Inspired YA Fiction Books?

Winkle and Aster, by Derek Corsaro (2023)

Winkle and Aster is a captivating tale that connects to Filipino and Mexican folklore and mythology. This book is a mesmerizing journey through a mystical world, seen through the eyes of Periwinkle and Aster Dalisay.

The narrative brilliantly captures the essence of being lost in a world brimming with spirits, folklore, and magic. As the youngest sophomore in a high-performing high school, Periwinkle’s character resonates with anyone who has felt the pressure of expectations and the desire to find one's own path. Her interest in painting, rather than conforming, is a breath of fresh air.

The fire incident that throws her and her sister, Aster, into a black and white world is both literal and metaphorical, representing the chaos and uncertainty of adolescence. The quest for the Abyssal Vine and the challenges they face in this spectral world is a gripping metaphor for the journey towards self-discovery and resilience.

The inclusion of a Filipino water spirit adds a layer of cultural depth and mysticism to this unique story. Corsaro’s book is not just about the adventure but a reflection on spiritual belief, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood.

Dance of Stars and Ashes, by Nisha J. Tuli (2024)

Dance of Stars and Ashes, the second book in The Nightfire Quartet by Nisha J. Tuli, is a mix of romance and mythology.

The protagonist, Zarya, is a character that embodies strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Her journey of discovering her own ancient and dark magic is enthralling. The depiction of Rabin, a warrior prince with deadly beauty and arrogance, adds layers of complexity to the narrative.

Their dynamic, filled with tension, secrets, and an undeniable connection, is the heartbeat of the story. The portrayal of demons looming over Dharati and the impending ceremony to protect the city set a backdrop of high stakes and suspense.

The exploration of themes such as the power of love, the pursuit of one's destiny, and the battle between light and darkness is done with a delicate yet impactful touch.

Lies We Sing to the Sea, by Sarah Underwood (2023)

This mythological fiction is an exceptional story that brilliantly marries Greek mythology with a poignant YA narrative. The story, centered around Leto, a maiden condemned by Ithaca, unfolds with a depth that is both heart-wrenching and beautiful. The portrayal of Ithaca's vengeful tradition, where maidens are sacrificed to appease Poseidon, is not only gripping but also a clever reinterpretation of Greek lore. Leto's journey from facing death to discovering a mysterious island and meeting Melantho, a girl with the power over the sea, is crafted with such finesse that it left me captivated. Underwood's storytelling is a testament to the power of myths reimagined, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tales.

The themes of lies, love, and tragedy are interwoven seamlessly, making this book a standout in its genre. As a reader, I was particularly impressed by the relationship dynamics and the moral complexities that the characters navigate. The book’s exploration of fate and choice is thought-provoking, making it a must-read for fans of Greek mythology and YA fiction alike. Sarah Underwood's narrative style is both enchanting and evocative, making Lies We Sing to the Sea a legendary debut in the YA realm.

The Immortal Games, by Annaliese Avery (2023)

The Immortal Games by Annaliese Avery is a novel that took my breath away with its exciting blend of mythology and YA romantasy. The concept of the Immortal Games, where humans, known as Tokens, are pawns in a deadly game played by the Gods of Olympus, is both innovative and thrilling.

Ara, the protagonist, is a character of remarkable depth and complexity. Her quest for revenge against the Gods for her sister's death in the Games adds a layer of intensity and emotional depth to the narrative. Avery's portrayal of the Gods, especially Hades, the God of the Underworld, is a brilliant deviation from traditional mythological depictions. Hades, often portrayed as a dark and fearsome deity, is shown here with a nuance that adds to his character’s appeal.

What struck me most about this book is its exploration of themes such as the value of life, living, and compassion. The dynamics between Ara and Hades evolve beautifully, creating a storyline that is not only about survival but also about finding unexpected connections and learning from them. The author's skillful weaving of Greek mythology into a modern setting is commendable, making The Immortal Games a standout novel. Annaliese Avery has crafted a world that is both fantastical and relatable, making it an essential read for fans of mythology-inspired YA fiction.

Lore, by Alexandra Bracken (2021)

Lore is a breathtaking novel that masterfully intertwines Greek mythology with a gripping YA storyline. The novel's premise, where Greek gods are punished to live as mortals and hunted down, is both innovative and thrilling. Lore Perseous, the protagonist, is a character of immense depth, shaped by a past marred with tragedy and betrayal. Her journey from fleeing a world of violence to being pulled back into the brutal Agon hunt over New York City is both compelling and emotionally charged. Bracken's storytelling is vivid, bringing the ancient world into a modern urban setting in a way that feels both fantastical and believable.

What makes Lore stand out is its exploration of power dynamics, destiny, and the humanization of gods. The alliance between Lore and Athena, and their mutual struggle against a formidable enemy, adds layers of intrigue and suspense.

The novel is a fascinating take on the Greek mythos, reimagined with a fresh perspective that captivates from the first page to the last. Alexandra Bracken's skill in crafting a narrative that is both action-packed and emotionally resonant makes Lore a must-read in the mythology-inspired YA genre.

Circe, by Madeline Miller (2020)

Madeline Miller's Circe is, in my opinion, redefining the narrative of one of the most intriguing characters from Greek mythology. This novel is a bold and imaginative retelling of the life of Circe, a figure known from The Odyssey.

Miller's portrayal of Circe is nothing short of revolutionary, presenting her as a complex character with depth and agency. Born into the house of Helios, but lacking the apparent power of her divine relatives, Circe's journey of self-discovery and empowerment is both inspiring and emotional.

What truly captivates me about Circe is its feminist angle, portraying the titular character not just as a sorceress but as a woman navigating a world dominated by gods and men. Her exile to a deserted island becomes a metaphor for her transformation, as she hones her witchcraft and crosses paths with famous mythological figures.

Final Thoughts on Mythology Inspired YA Fiction Books

Reflecting on this collection of mythology-inspired YA fiction, it’s clear that these stories offer more than just escapades into fantastical worlds. They are mirrors reflecting our own world, with all its complexities and beauties. These books are not just about gods and goddesses but about the human experience as seen through the lens of the mythical. They remind us that at the heart of every myth, there is a truth about humanity that is timeless.

These stories stand out as beacons of creativity, weaving together the threads of the ancient and the modern, and inviting young readers to explore realms where the only limit is their imagination.

If you are looking for more YA books check out our favorite YA book series.

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post Top 6 Mythology Inspired YA Fiction Books For 2024 appeared first on Joelbooks.

Compassion and Friendship

Kids Story Book about Kindness, Support, Fellowship and Helping – Social Skills Books for Kids

A Story That Touches and Teaches: Ella, an exceptionally friendly owl, leads us through colorful pages filled with adventures and vital lessons. Embark on a journey where friendship blossoms and the value of compassion is brought to life.

Dive into the vibrant city where the friendly owl Ella, with her large, bright eyes and an even bigger heart, starts a series of heartwarming adventures that change not just Ella's world but also that of Tom, an energetic kindergarten child, and his friends.

When Ella meets a sad snail and a fearful squirrel, she teaches everyone that problems are best solved together. The story resonates with themes of compassion and cooperation, showing that shared joy strengthens real relationships. Through beautiful images and lovingly narrated episodes, children recognize the power of a smile and build long-lasting, warm friendships.

This enchanting story, enriched with vivid illustrations, awakens children's curiosity and reveals the significance of friendship and compassion in a way they can truly understand.

A Companion for Day and Night This book is perfect for both day and night. During the day, parents and children discover the colorful illustrations and interactive narratives. At night, it transforms into a gentle bedtime story that helps children fall asleep.

Thus, The Gentle Owl Ella is not only a bedtime treasure that stimulates imagination and provokes thoughtful conversations but also a book that warms hearts and brings smiles.

An Educational Masterpiece Every page of The Gentle Owl Ella is an educational masterpiece that encourages children to laugh, think, and learn. A free activity book deepens the reading experience and makes every adventure with Ella an interactive pleasure.

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Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

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