Although I would hardly blame anyone for doubting at this point, the next Roc Rider novel is coming. But, until it’s here, you’re all doubtless in need of tantalizing tales to read in the meantime. Here, find some books I’ve enjoyed in recent years that I think you’ll devour with gusto.
1. “The Hunter’s Apprentice” by Lindsay Schopfer
Schopfer doesn’t disappoint with this most recent outing in the Keltin Moore series. The beasts? Bigger. The peril? Greater. The emotional stakes. Why, they’ve never been higher! But it’s all told with Lindsay’s signature down-to-earth and relatable style. If you haven’t already picked this up, do yourself a favor and get it today.
2. “The Pack” by E.C. Saulness
Want an urban fantasy about a werewolf detective? Prefer for it to be low on the romance, high on the adventure and noir mystery feel, with plenty of action? Like a gritty protagonist with a checkered past? Look no further than “The Pack”, the debut title of E.C. Saulness.
3. “For Evergreens and Aspen Trees” by A.L. Lorensen
My opinion of this wonderful novel is no way (okay, maybe in a small, insignificant way) biased by the fact that I narrated the audiobook for it. This fact doesn’t change the characters, who are wonderful to follow and have a fascinating dynamic involving lost memories and insidious curses. Nor does it make the epic fantasy setting, with its explosive magics, hidden realms, and beautiful scenery, any less explorable. And it most certainly doesn’t diminish the action scenes, which will have you gripping the book and going, “How do they get out of this one??”
4. “Huw the Bard” by Connie J. Jasperson
If you’re in the mood for a low-magic fantasy in a richly realized world, with a character whose highly personal stakes will have you swept up in how the grand conflict between political rivals impacts the everyday people in a society, you might be in the mood for “Huw the Bard”. If you’re up for a tale about the last of a noble trade, carrying the traditions of an entire culture on his shoulders as he flees to safety, you might be even more in the mood for it.
5. “His Excellency: George Washington” by Joseph J. Ellis
This non-fiction title isn’t your standard George Washington biography. The book looks at Washington not through the lens of his accomplishments, but who he was as a person. With a deep dive into his personal correspondences and diaries, the book looks at how the events of Washington’s life affected him personally, and how his personal life impacted his decisions as general and president. A very interesting read and well worth the time invested.
6. “Falling to Fly” by Todd Fahnestock
This book tells the story of fantasy author Todd Fahnestock’s journey to where he is in his writing career today. Early success in traditional publishing (which included a mentorship with one of the main Dragonlance authors) led Fahnestock on a path to being a successful and growing independent fantasy author today. It is a fast read, not only inspirational and useful for authors but also hosting a fascinating snapshot of the book industry, where it’s been over the last decade, and where it’s headed.
7. “The Mythology of Cats” by Gerald Hausman
Want to know more about cats and their place in the mythologies of the world? Curious about the symbolic significance they’ve held in different cultures over time? Yes, you are, so go get this and read it you silly goose!
Hopefully something on the list above can satisfy you until the third Roc Rider is ready. Need more recommendations? Check out the Indie Fantasy Addicts and Hidden Gems Facebook groups for more indie fantasy suggestions and reviews.
Thanks for reading! Nab a free short story, “Of Gods and Vermin”, read sneak peeks of my works in progress, and more, by signing up for my newsletter
Aaron, thank you for your kind words!