Dane Thornburn and the Stanthorpe Rebellion by Matt Galanos, is a riveting addition to a fantasy action series tailored to young readers. As the fourth installment in this captivating saga, it continues to explore the life of its main character, Dane Thornburn. Within its pages, readers will encounter a tale of personal tragedy, a kingdom in turmoil, and a shocking betrayal, setting the stage for a cascade of transformative events that reverberate across the land. In the company of familiar faces like Dane’s steadfast friend, Princess Vanessa, and his ever-present rival, Duke Kavendish, the narrative unfolds against a backdrop of mysterious forces wreaking havoc throughout the kingdom. Accusations fly, fingers are pointed, and it falls upon Dane and Princess Vanessa to take the reins and become the saviors their people desperately need.

At its core, this narrative explores profound themes of friendship, resilience in the face of tragedy, and the process of coping with loss. The author adeptly portrays both male and female characters grappling with their emotions in the wake of adversity, depicting their growth and evolution as individuals. A notable strength of the book lies in its skillful handling of multiple character perspectives, including that of the chilling and enigmatic antagonist, in stark contrast to our poised and level-headed hero. The culmination of the story will undoubtedly satiate existing fans while leaving them eagerly anticipating what lies ahead in future installments. In the first half of the story, Dane consistently shines as a beacon of rationality amidst a tumultuous sea of characters navigating their emotions. This observation also applies to some of the women in positions of authority, who, despite encountering moments of emotional turmoil during crises, ultimately demonstrate impressive resilience in regaining their composure.

Dane Thornburn and the Stanthorpe Rebellion is a must-read for enthusiasts of the series and promises to keep them engaged and eager for what’s next. I recommend this book to young readers as it offers an enthralling escape into a world of adventure and discovery.

Pages: 290 | ISBN : 1922920584