I’ve been trying to build some earlier buzz for The Name and the Key, and that includes submitting it to some sites that offer editorial reviews for a more reasonable price than say, Kirkus Reviews.

The first place I submitted to was Reader’s Favorite, which I had learned about through my MFA mentor Scott A. Johnson, whose book Through The Witch’s Stone was a book award winner (bronze) with Reader’s Favorite. They do editorial reviews, review exchanges, book giveaways, and of course, have a contest.

My review came back and it’s 5 stars! I’m just going to share an excerpt of it with you:

Kristina Elyse Butke’s The Name and the Key is a memorable book. The premise of the story offers a philosophical concept combined with fantasy and the supernatural. The writing is atmospheric, with descriptive and almost moody prose that pulls you into a dark and mysterious world without losing sight of the characters. Lily’s reactions are realistic, especially her guilt and the way trauma affects her everyday habits. The magic system is intriguing, particularly the idea that knowing a thing’s true name grants one power over it. It reminds me of the concept of true/real names, and this adds philosophical depth to the story without turning it into a lecture. The relationship between Lily and Andresh also gives warmth and tension, balancing the darker themes. Overall, it’s a thoughtful yet haunting fantasy that focuses less on spectacle and more on emotion, identity, and the lingering weight of loss. I would definitely recommend this book.

The reviewer, Miche Arendse, was very generous and I am so thankful for the positive review. If you want to read the whole thing, click here.

I have submitted The Name and the Key to two more places for editorial reviews — American Writing Awards (where I was a finalist last time) and then Literary Titan. I’m absolutely terrified to see what they’ll think, because everyone’s opinion is going to be different.

Truth be told, even thought The Name and the Key has been my baby forever, this is a new iteration, and it counts as my sophomore work. There’s a fear with writers that the sophomore effort won’t do as well as the debut–this is also called a sophomore slump–but if this first review is any indication, The Name and the Key is on the right track.

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Want to help me out? I’m recruiting reviewers through my ARC team! Get early access to The Name and the Key with some fun bonuses just for signing up. Register here.