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The Alpine Dragon Legends
Over two centuries ago, dragons ruled the skies and lurked in the deepest caverns of the Alpine Mountains. These legendary beasts, steeped in mystery, carried ancient wisdom from forgotten ages. Now, for the first time in generations, they are forced to cross paths with humankind once again. Can these vastly different creatures find a way to coexist, or will power and fear spark an unstoppable clash?
The Alpine Dragon Legends by August E. Allen contains three enchanting tales that unfold like timeless legends, each feeling like a story whispered by firelight on a crisp spring night. The writing is rich, weaving mystery and grandeur into every word. The setting alone had me hooked, and the stunning illustrations, detailed dragons, intricate maps, and more bring the world to life in breathtaking fashion.
Unlike the usual dragon tales filled with endless battles and destruction, these stories take a different path. They’re about courage, empathy, and the power of understanding. Instead of swords clashing, the focus is on choices that shape not just individuals but entire worlds. I loved the message of caring for the planet and finding strength in compassion rather than conquest.
I was completely captivated and found myself wishing for more. The stories move at an exhilarating pace, making them easy to devour in one sitting, but I would have loved the chance to linger longer in those moments of connection between humans and dragons. Vincent’s journey to free Rhygar from his curse was mesmerizing. I could have followed it for many more pages. Saphyrax’s struggle between protection and understanding was deeply compelling, and I wanted to explore even more of his choices. The world feels vast and rich, leaving just enough mystery to spark the imagination, and I can only hope there are more stories waiting to be told.
With an unforgettable setting and lyrical storytelling, The Alpine Dragon Legends is perfect for readers aged 8-12 who adore fairy tales, myths, and, of course, dragons. Whether devoured in one sitting or revisited time and again, this is a book meant to be shared, remembered, and carried along on your adventures.
Pages: 123 | ASIN : B0DVGX4NT1
Entertaining and Uplifting
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The Aswan Device follows two sisters whose father creates a parallel reality disrupting their own, and they must rely on each other to save their world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am not really sure. Much of this story was written while I sat down at my computer with the intention of creating a sequel that would be both entertaining and uplifting for young people, and I allowed the words to flow through me and onto the page. The real work for me came in the editing and trying to make sense of what I’d typed.
That being said, I am a huge Star Wars and Marvels Universe fan, so inspiration could have been drawn from these amazing works.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
From my travels. . .
I first learned about the concept of inner-earth beings on a bus tour to Reno, Nevada twenty-three years ago. Our bus stopped at a park with large stone circles where they believed inner-earth beings were close to the surface. This inspired me to dig further.
The folklore of many First Nations cultures depicts their ancestors living within the earth. For example, the Hopi origin story has it that the Hopis used to live beneath the earth and emerged from the Grand Canyon. I traveled to the Grand Canyon to experience this place of wonder for myself. The Grand Canyon plunges so far below that it is easy to envision ancient people emerging from its depths.
The intra-earth city, Mu, in The Intra-Earth Chronicles;Book II:The Aswan Device, was modeled after places I’d seen on my travels to both Egypt and Peru; Mu is nestled on a mesa surrounded by mountains and jungle much like Machu Picchu in Peru and has pyramids like the great pyramids of Egypt.
The inspiration for Aswan, the luminous orange planet, came from my love of Planet Jupiter.
I am also a fan of the History Channel’s Ancient Aliens, and there is an episode about the possibility of advanced civilizations existing beneath the earth’s crust. There’s a lot of great inspiration for Sci-fi writers from that television show.
The multiple settings became more detailed and complex in this second installment of the series!
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away by the magical powers of characters. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
I had so many characters in so many different settings, in order to develop each character and place fully, I couldn’t spend too much time on any one character’s magical powers. I hope I succeeded in that delicate balance! 😊
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
I haven’t begun Book III yet, but I have a feeling that Sasha, Adrianne, the two Aswan Cadets, and Desoto will travel to other planets within the galaxy to experience how they are governed and have achieved peace and co-exist within the greater system of galaxies. Their travels will also lead them back to our own planet to study many more peaceful Intra-earth Civilizations.
Sasha and Adrianne will learn more about the Prophecy and will have to choose whether to accept or deny their destiny of becoming Lords of the Twelve Worlds.
My intent is that this will be an exciting and uplifting adventure filled with humor. 🙂
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
During his escape from the intra-earth, Tartarus disrupts Mu’s spinning magnetic power source, causing explosive bursts of energy to erupt onto the surface. This disruption tears the fabric of time and creates a doorway into a parallel reality. In this new reality, Tartarus reinstates the nuclear machine and positions himself as Earth’s savior in place of the sisters. With unlimited power and resources at his disposal, will Sasha and Adrianne ever be able to stop him?
In The Aswan Device by Kara Jacobson, we experience a fast-paced fantasy adventure where love and friendship prove to be the strongest weapons of all.
The Intra-Earth Chronicles; Book II: The Aswan Device
Deep within the Earth’s core lies a world of astonishing beauty and relentless strife, where two sisters, Adrianne and Sasha, bear the burden of a fractured kingdom and a legacy marred by betrayal. Their father, Tartarus, deposed yet dangerous, shatters their fragile peace by stealing a device designed to heal their fractured world. Forced into a perilous quest, Adrianne and Sasha confront not only external threats but also the unspoken tensions that threaten to divide them. Adrianne, impulsive and eager to prove herself, wrestles with her fiery temper and desire to escape Sasha’s shadow. Meanwhile, Sasha, steady and wise, strives to hold their tenuous alliance together. As they traverse dangerous landscapes and a parallel Earth where Tartarus has claimed dominion, their resilience shines. Yet the question looms: can their bond withstand the trials ahead, or will their differences tear them apart at the moment they need each other most?
The Aswan Device by Kara Jacobson is an extraordinary fusion of mythology, science fiction, and family drama, weaving a story that is both thrilling and deeply emotional. Set in an intricately crafted subterranean world, the novel follows royal sisters Adrianne and Sasha as they grapple with their father’s dark legacy while navigating the crumbling societies above and below ground. Their mission to recover the stolen nuclear device, a symbol of hope and survival, tests their love, rivalry, and endurance.
Jacobson balances adventure with emotional depth, creating a narrative that resonates with readers. The reimagining of Tartarus, blending ancient mythology with futuristic elements, immediately captivates, and the seamless integration of these themes into a high-stakes narrative is nothing short of brilliant. The juxtaposition of mythological resonance with cutting-edge technology crafts a storyscape that is both unique and compelling.
The protagonists, Adrianne and Sasha, stand out as vivid, multidimensional characters. Adrianne’s fiery determination and Sasha’s empathetic wisdom create a sibling dynamic that is as relatable as it is engaging. Their interactions capture the essence of siblinghood, brimming with frustration, humor, and unwavering loyalty. Tartarus, as the antagonist, is a commanding presence—a complex figure whose ambition and moral decay echo timeless themes of power and corruption. The supporting cast further enriches the narrative, offering moments of levity and depth, while the interplay among characters ensures readers are emotionally invested in their journeys. Jacobson’s technical expertise shines through her lush world-building and evocative prose.
For fans of Rick Riordan and the Percy Jackson series, The Aswan Device is an absolute must-read. With its fast-paced adventure, rich character development, and thematic complexity, it stands as a standout entry in the genre. Perfect for young adult and middle-grade readers, this book’s blend of science fiction, fantasy, and mythology ensures an unforgettable experience. Whether drawn to epic quests, futuristic worlds, or the intricate dynamics of sibling relationships, readers will find The Aswan Device to be an engaging and deeply satisfying journey.
Pages: 185 | ASIN : B0DK26ZY5S
I Created the Books I Wanted to Read
The Guardians: Rise of the Phantom follows the guardians entrusted with protecting the realm of Felina, who must take action to protect it from a new dark enemy that has unleashed destruction and chaos on the peaceful world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As an avid reader, I began noticing how there weren’t any specific books available in the niche genre I wanted, so I created one. I first began writing this book when I was 12, and I didn’t fully know where to go with it. My mom and I have brainstormed for hours every day since then to create this entire world. So, I guess my mom was partly the inspiration, and the other inspiration was my own curiosity and excitement about the world my characters would live in.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
My inspiration actually came from another story, a novella that I had dictated to my mother when I was nine. That story had a setup where there were these cat people who needed to protect the world from ruthless dogs. Writing this book, I decided to take the its concept and evolve it to meet with my target audience.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Being 12, 13, and now 14, I truly didn’t care about themes. I wanted to write an exciting book people couldn’t put down. Over these few years, my mom and I talked about all the ways in which each character’s life could play out. Moral dilemmas, hard choices, and taking sadness in stride became common topics where we would explore characterization from a deep level. As I got to know my characters, since they kind of became their own being at one point, I could see they had things to learn and experience for themselves, and that is the origination of this book’s themes.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
The story in the next book introduces the much-anticipated Phantom and the Guardian Coralees, along with her underwater dwelling Mizus. Together with her help, Alada, Tierra, and Birch are able to gather new intel on the beast’s glitching abilities, and the Phantom’s lair. Meanwhile, the Phantom continues to prepare for the start of war. Readers will be transported to his lair and what comes of that is the unfurling of a history long forgotten.
There are six books in the series. One book will be published and released every December. More books may be added to the series.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Yet, the attack was only the beginning. As the smoke cleared, a chilling message appeared on a large boulder: You are now under the command of the Phantom. With this dark threat looming over the land, Alada and Tierra knew they had to protect Felina. Rallying their courage, Alada and Tierra prepared to warn the other villages… until Birch, a trophy-toting nobody with more enthusiasm than skill, insisted on tagging along. Fantastic. Because that’s exactly what they needed.
Children of the Ancient Heroes: Dreams and Nightmares
Children of the Ancient Heroes: Dreams and Nightmares, by Russell J. Fellows, whisks readers on an enchanting adventure through an alternate world with Tirza and Eli at its heart. Thirteen-year-old Tirza yearns for a life touched by magic. Her days feel routine, filled with reading, hanging out with her best friend, and caring for her little brother, Eli. Everything changes when their parents start remodeling an old bookstore. As the siblings stumble upon a forbidden book of childhood legends, reality bends. Tirza and Eli are swept into a realm bursting with magic, where legends breathe, friendships form, and danger lurks around every corner. The story leaps into high gear as Tirza and Eli find themselves entangled in a perilous plot against the benevolent Queen Penelope. In this realm, the stakes are high—two worlds depend on the courage of these young adventurers. Tirza dreams of becoming the hero she’s always read about, but Eli remains hesitant. Their journey through the magical dimension teems with whimsical and fierce encounters, their sibling dynamic adding a refreshing layer of realism and emotional depth to the fantastical narrative.
Fellows has created a rich tapestry of characters. The brave duo Merry and Ziglin fight with unwavering dedication to defend their queen and homeland, while the enigmatic Illuma weaves in and out of the shadows on missions cloaked in mystery. Queen Penelope stands as a beacon of kindness tinged with sorrow, hinting at a deeper story waiting to be unveiled. In contrast, the villains paint a picture of darkness. Ravena, while sometimes coming off as trying too hard to be menacing, still adds a sense of danger, and the soul-eater Xaphad chills the pages with whispered threats. Tirza and Eli feel authentic, ordinary children suddenly thrust into a fantastical realm where their choices matter more than ever. The grounded nature of their bond, particularly Tirza’s big-sister protectiveness and Eli’s cautious outlook, breathes life into their journey, making readers root for them every step of the way.
Beyond the magic and adventure, the novel dives into surprisingly deep themes. It tackles the “problem of evil” and explores the complex interplay between personal choice and divine intervention, adding layers of philosophical reflection to an otherwise lighthearted narrative. The sprinkling of Tolkien references adds a fun nod to fans of classic fantasy, enriching the story’s worldbuilding with a sense of homage and wonder.
Children of the Ancient Heroes: Dreams and Nightmares is a delightful, thought-provoking read that promises much for the series to come. With its blend of fantasy violence, themes of mortality and kidnapping, and philosophical musings, it’s perfect for readers aged 10 and up who love to explore magical realms. The tale ends on a note that whets the appetite for future adventures, setting the stage for a series filled with intrigue, heart, and a dash of philosophical pondering.
Pages: 193 | ASIN : B0DFX8ZQNQ
The Missing (Raven, Romda and Ravai Book 3)
In The Missing (Raven, Romda, and Ravai), Dave Maruszewski delivers a thrilling blend of mystery and horror that pulls you in from page one. The story follows Romda, Ravai, and Raven, seasoned heroes weary from battling a powerful lich, as they take on what seems like a straightforward assignment. But this is no ordinary missing persons case—one-third of an entire town has vanished. As they investigate the mysterious town of Ashton, with its unassuming residents and eerie undertones, they discover dark secrets lurking beneath the surface.
Maruszewski has crafted a fun, fast-paced adventure that’s hard to put down. The suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat; it’s one of those stories that you breeze through in a single day, eager to unravel the mystery. The world-building is remarkable, rich in detail, and fully immersive. Ashton, although one of the oldest towns in the kingdom, feels both strange and familiar, with a multi-dimensional atmosphere grounded in reality. What stands out most is how well Maruszewski merges horror with mystery. The writing is clear, modern, and easy to read, making it accessible to a broad audience. One of the most enjoyable aspects of this book is the banter and rapport between the main characters. Raven, Romda, and Ravai play off each other with humor and camaraderie, and Maruszewski’s dialogue captures their dynamic beautifully. Ravai’s carefree approach adds a bit of lightness, as shown in scenes where he’s more interested in eating or teasing Raven than focusing on their mission. These lighter moments make the story engaging, giving you a reason to root for each of them, even as things get dark. Despite the daunting task, their interactions kept me hooked.
The Missing delivers a beautifully constructed world and a compelling mystery that’s engaging from start to finish. Maruszewski’s storytelling shines, making it an exciting and satisfying read. For anyone looking for an adventure that blends intrigue with a touch of darkness, this book is a fantastic choice. Highly recommended!
Pages: 94 | ASIN : B0DGV6DZV6
On The Wings of Wishes
Ash, a magic seeker, spends her days searching for enchantment and hunting fairies, convinced that magic is the only thing that can solve her problems. As she continues her quest, she begins to discover that magic is everywhere, often found in the most unexpected places. But just as she starts to unravel these mysteries, disaster strikes. A Category 5 hurricane threatens her village, putting not only her family but her entire community at risk. Ash finds herself wondering if there’s enough magic to save everything she holds dear.
In On the Wings of Wishes: True Magic Still Lives, Angel Dunworth invites readers into a world brimming with magic, offering a story that feels timeless and appeals to readers of all ages. The book effortlessly taps into that childhood sense of wonder, where an ordinary girl can become a hero, and magic can be found in the most unlikely places. The journey Ash embarks on is one that feels familiar yet fresh—it’s not about being a superhero but about being a regular girl trying to save her home and the fragile state of her parents’ relationship. What stands out most is how Dunworth uses this magical narrative as a metaphor for a broken home. Seeing the world through Ash’s eyes, a child frightened that her world might fall apart, adds a layer of emotional depth to the story. Despite her fear, she discovers hope and magic along the way, which makes the book not just a tale of adventure but one of resilience and belief in the unseen. Dunworth captures that delicate balance of fear and wonder, making it easy for both children and adults to relate to the emotions and lessons within the story. I absolutely enjoyed the writing style. It’s beautifully simple, with a flow that’s easy to follow, making it accessible for younger readers while still captivating for adults. The language used is charming and fits perfectly with the magical tone of the story. The characters, including Ash, don’t feel fully fleshed out, so you don’t get the chance to truly connect with them on a deeper level. This lack of development sometimes keeps the reader at a distance from the story’s emotional core.
On the Wings of Wishes is a delightful read, filled with heart and imagination. It’s perfect for readers who long to recapture that childhood sense of wonder or for young readers ready to lose themselves in a world where magic is real, and hope is always just around the corner. Angel Dunworth has crafted a lovely, whimsical story that reminds us all that true magic still lives even in the darkest moments.
Pages: 107 | ASIN : B0D9GLX5X6
An Alien Took My Cheese
An Alien Took My Cheese hooks young readers right from the start. Owen wakes up one morning, only to discover his favorite snack has vanished without a trace. But who—or what—could be behind this? As the story moves forward, the possibility of an alien culprit comes into focus. With his loyal dog Clover by his side, Owen dives into a thrilling adventure, determined to solve the mystery of the missing cheese. What he finds along the way, though, is something he never expected.
Janice Hostetter spins a tale that sparks curiosity and lively discussion, especially during story time. Humor and suspense blend seamlessly, pulling readers in and holding their attention tight. The idea of an alien thief adds a fun and imaginative twist, keeping the story vibrant and fresh. Owen’s close bond with Clover brings warmth to the narrative, turning their quest into more than just a hunt for stolen cheese—it becomes a touching story of friendship. The interactive nature of the book shines through as Owen picks up clues around the house, inviting readers to join the detective work. Bright, engaging illustrations amplify the experience, urging young minds to dive deeper into the story and ask questions. The sensory details Hostetter weaves in—like the stench in the garage, the clatter of mysterious noises, and the eerie green slime—make the tale come alive. These vivid elements not only enhance the story but also offer a subtle educational layer, perfect for helping children explore their senses.
This story moves at a brisk pace, perfect for young readers who love a good mix of humor and adventure. The quick tempo keeps the energy high, ensuring kids remain captivated from start to finish. With its blend of comedy, heartwarming moments, and surprising twists, An Alien Took My Cheese stands out as a must-read for any child eager for a mystery full of delightful surprises.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D7WZ4STT
