Entry Title: Shades of Death

Author: S. Thomas Bailey

Judge Number: 82

Entry Category: Genre Fiction

Books are evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 meaning “needs improvement” and 5 meaning “outstanding”. This scale is strictly to provide a point of reference, it is not a cumulative score and does not reflect ranking.

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Structure and Organization: 5

Grammar: 5

Production Quality and Cover Design: 5

Plot (if applicable): 5

Character Development (if applicable): 5

Judges Commentary*:

SHADES OF DEATH: THE GAUNTLET RUNNER BOOK II by S. Thomas Bailey is an intriguing story written by a skilled author who really cares about history. Those who enjoy serious yet entertaining historical fiction with epic conflicts that reflect the times would do well to read this novel.

The cover conveys in an excellent manner the situation and setting. Though illustrations are less common than costumed models on most of today’s covers, the artwork is lovely and will attract readers’ attention.

I like that the author includes endorsements on the back cover along with the plot teaser. Inclusion of the web site address also lends a great air of professionalism.

Inside, the layout is impressive and makes the appearance of the pages look more expensive than a book you’d read and then toss. It was great to see even more praises straightaway.

The maps are wonderful. Excellent author photo and bio. I appreciated seeing recommendations for other sources where readers could learn more.

The story is well written and entertaining. I am confident the author knows his topic, cares about it, and has put in more than the requisite research. I could pass this book along to any historian without risk of embarrassment that I had recommended a careless novel.

Great job!

*Commentary may be quoted as: “Judge, Writer’s Digest 21st Annual Self-Published Book Awards”

Great feedback! Please share with your friends and make a note for the fast approaching Holiday Season.
Thanks!