Review of Tim's Timeless Treasures and Reviews The Chosen by Stephanie J Bardy

This month I am facing a CHOICE; three titles remain from the package of Dark Myth Publications and Zombie Works books that I recently received. Naturally, my eyes drifted toward the book that sits at the top of the pile. It just so happens to be The CHOSEN (see what I did there) by the wonderfully talented Stephanie (aka Lupa) J. Bardy. First published in December of 2020, I vaguely recall reading a version of this story in earlier issues of The World of Myth Magazine. An examination of the book, beyond the most dramatic and atmospheric of covers, confirms within the first pages that, yes indeed, the chapters have appeared before in issues 61 through to 81 of The World of Myth (with the occasionally missed issue… Life, Lupa, am I right?), this though is the first time the story has been woven together like a fine tapestry and packaged so perfectly for we, the readers, to (well) read in full. Before I get to the heart of my review (promising no spoilers) I just wanted to mention you can buy The Chosen on Myth Mart for US$9.99 plus sales tax and delivery in paperback, or US$0.99 to download a copy. Do it. Do it now. You won't be disappointed, and here is why…
This book is written by a master storyteller. From the beginning I was hooked on the tale of Celeste and Merrik, their battle against the diabolical Ren Daul (pure evil personified), and the trials they must go through, risking everything to save each other and their world. Do they survive? Do the powers of good overcome the darkness? Well, I'm not telling (no spoilers… remember?). You'll need to read this amazing story to find out for yourselves.
The pacing is masterful. I devoured it in one sitting. Not because I had the time, but because I found I needed to make the time. The story is so good. In these busy times where life always seems to find a way to get in the way, this was a rare moment in which I made the decision to let the dishes, washing, writing (yes WRITING), and everything else simply wait. I needed to know what happened next. The twists and turns, the big reveals, the way that this author has created two protagonists of equal value and importance, and one wicked villain who we actually get to learn so much about. There is nothing two dimensional here. Everyone gets their fair share of the spotlight, and the story flows like a flooding river.
This is the book every fantasy fan has got to read! Magic, battles, a mystical trio, and the power of love. I cannot recommend The Chosen highly enough. Bardy knows how to write. And if, for a moment, you think to yourself "Why buy the book when I can just read it all online for free?" can I remind you that there is something special about holding this book in your hands and flicking though chapter after chapter. The glossy cover, the weight of something magical, living the adventure with this couple, discovering the thrilling conclusion. Celeste, The Huntress, mysterious and mystical, and Merrik, The Warrior, so strong and brave, they are the perfect combination of protagonist. Paired against Ren Daul, the ultimate bad guy, well, I for one found this to be utter perfection.
It should therefore not surprise you that I give The Chosen a solid five out of five glorious stars. To be honest, I feel it deserves more. So, jump online and claim your copy. You can thank me later.