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Kianola
Nole, an eighth-grader who’s quiet, shy, and often overlooked by his classmates, discovers an unexpected side of himself in the virtual world of Enix. In this realm, he evolves from an awkward boy into a courageous hero, confronting mythical beasts and diving headfirst into thrilling adventures. Each triumph in Enix sparks a newfound confidence in him—a spark that he carries back into the real world, where he faces relentless bullies, an unspoken crush, and the daunting everyday challenges of middle school. Yet, the central question remains: Can this digital bravery withstand the trials waiting for him beyond the screen?
In Kianola, Nathan Roth crafts a touching, resonant story centered around Nole’s journey of self-discovery. The narrative pulls you right into the life of this timid eighth-grader, making his brave virtual escapades feel familiar and surprisingly uplifting. Roth’s vivid descriptions of Enix’s fantastical realm draw you in, making it easy to imagine standing beside Nole as he learns that the victories he earns in a game may shape the way he faces his reality. What stands out in Kianola is Roth’s nuanced portrayal of gaming not as mere escapism but as a space where Nole unearths parts of himself he never knew existed. The blend of real and virtual worlds is seamless, creating a singular, compelling journey that mirrors many young people’s struggles: dealing with bullies, navigating first crushes, and yearning to belong. Enix isn’t just a game; it’s a crucible where Nole’s courage is tested and forged, and Roth’s heartfelt crafting of this world gives it depth and resonance. The novel doesn’t shy away from meaningful themes. It touches on identity, courage, and the quiet struggle for self-confidence that many young readers will find relatable. Roth’s approach to these themes is refreshing—he presents Nole’s challenges with honesty and a light touch, never veering into melodrama. Each of Nole’s interactions, whether with his friends, family, or himself, unfolds naturally. We see how the smallest encounters can leave a lasting impact, shaping who he becomes. Roth reminds us that courage can be found in unexpected places and that even lessons learned in fantasy worlds can hold true in real life. Roth’s writing style strikes the perfect balance: engaging, straightforward, easy to connect with, yet rich enough to make Enix come alive. He brings just the right amount of detail to keep the fantasy realm exciting while grounding the story in the genuine, relatable experiences of middle school life. The dialogue flows effortlessly, making Nole’s world feel authentic and compelling. Roth creates a fast-paced yet meaningful narrative, where readers will find themselves cheering Nole on as he learns to face his fears, whether on-screen or off.
Kianola is a must-read for middle-grade readers, young gamers, or anyone who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit in. With relatable themes, engaging storytelling, and a protagonist you can’t help but root for, this book is a wonderful recommendation. For those who have ever wondered if the courage found behind a screen can translate into real-life bravery, Kianola offers a story that might just provide an answer.
Pages: 649 | ASIN : B0DH7T3V51
The Guardians of Earth
Guardians of Earth by Oriane Livingston is an eco-fantasy tale that combines myth, magic, and environmental activism. We follow Oona, a young girl who discovers that Earth is in grave danger, largely due to humanity’s actions and a sinister cosmic force known as the Dark Planet. Guided by Eterna, the spirit of Earth, Oona must rally her courage and inner powers to protect Earth’s balance. She’s joined by two other young guardians, Aqiwo and Nawal, as they navigate a world filled with talking animals, wise spirits, and ancient mysteries. Their mission is monumental. They must restore the sacred connection between humans and nature or risk losing the Earth forever.
Livingston’s writing has a beautiful and almost cinematic quality. She describes scenes with an awe-inspiring vibrancy, painting the natural world as though it’s a sacred tapestry. One passage that stood out to me is when Eterna, the spirit of Earth, speaks to Oona amid a lavender sky filled with giant lilac squirrels and fragrant blossoms. It’s so imaginative and surreal that I felt completely transported. Livingston doesn’t just show us nature’s beauty, she imbues it with a mystical glow. The writing is lush and evocative, yet at times, I felt like it leaned heavily on description.
Another aspect of the book that I liked is the powerful environmental message. Oona’s journey is driven by the need to reconnect humanity with Earth. This theme resonates strongly today, especially when we see Earth being harmed by pollution, deforestation, and climate change. One intense moment occurs when Oona witnesses majestic sequoias being cut down with the sap flowing like blood. The sorrow she feels as she watches helplessly is a reminder of the destructive impact humanity can have. Livingston’s clear passion for environmental activism shines here, making the book not just a fantasy but also a wake-up call.
Oona’s character is relatable and engaging. She’s young, curious, and brave but also vulnerable. Her connection to her mother and her struggles with her family add a touching depth to her character. The scene where her father dismisses her achievements hit me hard. It felt real and painfully relatable. It’s also a story about a girl finding her inner strength despite family issues and self-doubt.
Guardians of Earth is a unique and beautifully crafted tale that I’d recommend to anyone who loves stories where magic meets environmentalism. If you’re looking for a story that combines the wonder of fantasy with a heartfelt call to action, this one is worth diving into.
Pages: 164 | ASIN : B0DKG4RXQS
Spiritual Warfare
Kalani: Shadows of Destiny follows two people living in a world of immortals with advanced technology on separate journeys of self-discovery that unravel and challenge their concepts of reality and faith. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup for Kalani: Shadows of Destiny was inspired by my own journey of navigating faith and personal resilience, and I wanted to explore these themes in a sci-fi fantasy setting. Imagine a Christian Star Wars where the battle to remain faithful to God’s will has become an action adventure that defies age boundaries. Through the eyes of Desiree and Zach, we experience how eternal struggles intertwine with the mortal experience, and I wanted readers to feel the gravity of spiritual warfare on an epic, cosmic scale. With this inspiration, the story aims to connect on an emotional level, evoking the timeless challenge of belief amid adversity.
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?
The world of Kalani started with an image of a radiant, spiritual afterlife juxtaposed with dystopian elements, where immortals live with advanced technology yet face profound emotional and moral challenges. As I wrote, the setting evolved to represent an “eternal spring” on the surface, masking a world where characters constantly confront moral and spiritual darkness. Kalani grew into a realm where landscapes and tech reflect the inner spiritual states of the characters—a place both awe-inspiring and challenging, where destiny feels tangible.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes in Kalani reflect the emotional battles many of us face: resilience, faith, the tension between hope and despair, and finding purpose through sacrifice. Desiree’s journey, for instance, explores the sense of worthiness and self-discovery, reflecting my own experiences in foster care and growing up with complex feelings of unworthiness. There’s also the theme of spiritual warfare, where each character’s struggle represents the Biblical idea that our battles are not just physical but also spiritual. The Army of Magnar and the Army of Awry symbolize forces of good and evil in a tangible, cosmic conflict, and I wanted this to mirror how people today face unseen but profound battles for their souls.
What will your next novel be about, and what will the whole series encompass?
The Fostering Worlds series will span three books, each diving deeper into the cosmic struggle between Magnar and Awry’s armies. The next novel will see Desiree and Zach further develop their spiritual gifts and confront darker forces that test their faith to the limit. Over the series, I’m excited to explore how these battles shape their character and how each choice brings them closer to—or farther from—their divine purpose. Ultimately, the series is about hope, redemption, and learning to see one’s worth through a divine lens.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
As they set off on separate journeys, their stories become ones of self-discovery that unravels and challenges their concepts of realty and faith. Each torn between letting their past go, in order to accept an unknown destiny.
Kalani: Shadows of Destiny is the premiere novel in the science-fiction Fostering Worlds series. It is a gripping tale of love, sacrifice, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Get ready to be transported to a world of breathtaking landscapes, heart-pounding adventures, and emotionally driven characters that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Join Desiree and Zach as they embark on the ultimate test of faith.
Survival and Love
The Journey follows a beloved family pet who becomes lost on a family trip and must find a way back home with the help of some unexpected friends. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration was my surrounding relationships, their lifestyles and as well as mines.
What were some ideas that were important for you to personify in your characters?
Survival and love, I wanted that to shine through above anything else.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Bravery, good verses evil love.
What is the next story that you’re writing and when will it be published?
The Journey is going to be a series with book number too coming soon.
Author Links: Website
A Storm of Immortality
J. Wint’s A Storm of Immortality pulls readers into a dark and immersive dystopian world where hope teeters on the brink, resting in the hands of humans with unimaginable and feared powers. The novel captivates from the first page, plunging readers into a society forced underground, where survival demands conformity, silence, and rigid adherence to suffocating rules. Wint constructs this world with remarkable skill, painting the cave-bound existence in hues of tension and shadows, where even a whisper of difference can mean ruin. At the center of this fraught environment stands Brindall, a young man carrying the weight of his family’s survival on his shoulders. By day, he toils as a miner, serves in the militia, and follows every regulation imposed by his society. This community’s entire reality unfolds within a labyrinth of caves, a place where freedom feels like a dream and safety remains tethered to the darkness underground. Life leaves little room for rebellion or hope, and as The Day of the Nail approaches, Brindall’s anxiety peaks. This test, a measure to prove young people harbor no dangerous powers, threatens everything he holds dear. One mistake, one unexpected display of ability, and his life and his family’s could be forfeit.
Wint crafts a relentless atmosphere of suspense, where the stakes only climb higher. Brindall emerges as a fierce and charismatic protagonist. He exudes natural leadership, yet he is more than the typical warrior figure. Compassion and strength define him, a compelling mix that drives his journey. Faced with challenge after challenge, Brindall relies on an inner power he’s hidden his whole life. But he doesn’t battle alone. Soon, he finds himself among a group of extraordinary individuals, each wielding the same forbidden abilities. What starts as a collection of strangers soon forms a bond deeper than any he’s known, a chosen family united in the fight for freedom.
The narrative balances heart-pounding action with moments of genuine connection. As Brindall’s team of allies trains, strategizes, and faces the ever-looming threat of oppression, dark forces lurk, manipulating reality and blurring the lines between truth and illusion. Wint’s writing keeps readers spellbound, with a pace that flows seamlessly, never feeling rushed or dragging. The author’s skillful narration brings to life a story rich with complexity, and as each chapter unfolds, the world becomes more intricate and captivating. Characters grow, transforming in confidence and power as they confront their own limits.
A Storm of Immortality delivers everything a fan of dystopian fiction could crave: unrelenting action, a deep sense of mystery, chosen beings grappling with newfound strength, fierce conflicts, and the bonds of true friendship forged in the fires of adversity. The novel calls to mind the best of the dystopian wave of the 2010s, while standing out with its own unique flavor. Brindall’s journey feels fresh yet timeless, and the potential for more stories in this world brims with promise. Wint has crafted a compelling tale that holds readers tightly, leaving them eager for the next installment. This is a story executed with precision, heart, and a clear vision of what makes dystopian fiction unforgettable.
Pages: 342 | ISBN : 1736302981
The Dark Prince of Lazera
In the enchanting realm of Zormonia, young Simina lives a modest life with her father, her days brightened only by the myths, legends, and fairytales she clings to for escape. When she stumbles upon the story of the Dark Prince of Lazera and begins to believe in its truth, her life takes an unexpected and magical turn. Suddenly, Simina finds herself pulled into an adventure that could rival her wildest dreams, where growing up and keeping her sense of wonder are equally vital parts of her journey.
From the beginning, Croxton creates an immersive world. The descriptions are lush, particularly in passages where Simina is captivated by the natural beauty of her surroundings. Scenes where she escapes into the library or races through the woods with her friend Ernest breathe life into her character. These moments felt vividly alive, making it easy to empathize with Simina’s yearning for adventure. Croxton’s descriptions are immersive without becoming overwhelming, keeping the world grounded while retaining a sense of wonder.
The narrative does slow down in parts, particularly during Simina’s inner monologues about legends and beliefs. While I feel these reflections are insightful, they occasionally repeat, making it seem as though the story hovers without advancing. That said, these introspective passages also highlight Simina’s innocence and the book’s theme of belief in the unbelievable, setting up the later dramatic events effectively.
The character of the Dark Prince, when he finally appears, is skillfully crafted to be both captivating and unsettling. The mix of intrigue and unease that Simina feels upon meeting him is one of the book’s strongest moments. It brought to life her inner conflict, amplifying the stakes in her journey. His portrayal, coupled with Simina’s curiosity and fear, creates a dynamic tension that propels the story forward, keeping readers hooked to see what might happen next.
The Dark Prince of Lazera would be a delightful read for young adults and adults who cherish whimsical tales and a blend of folklore, adventure, and self-discovery. Croxton’s debut successfully explores timeless themes with a fresh, inviting narrative, making it ideal for those who enjoy richly imagined worlds without overly complex language. For readers who seek a gentle escape with a sprinkle of magic, this book is a perfect fit.
Pages: 273 | ASIN : B0BM4BXQ4B
Leaping Beauty
In Leaping Beauty, Rebecca Fox transports readers into a world brimming with fantasy, intrigue, and a touch of mystery. Red Felian, the last princess of a crumbling kingdom, is cursed, her strength slowly drained by a spell that keeps her imprisoned within the palace walls. But Red, a symbol of resilience and courage, refuses to let her fate be sealed. With only days left to live, she breaks free, determined to explore the world beyond and uncover the truth behind her parents’ disappearance. Outside the palace, Red encounters a kingdom rife with peril—shadowy forests, corrupt guards, and a ruthless nobleman’s son who’s hellbent on capturing her. Yet, she remains unwavering in her quest. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she meets Robbie, a captivating and enigmatic traveler whose involvement complicates her already dangerous mission. With time slipping away and threats looming, Red must seize control of her destiny before it’s too late.
Fox masterfully captures readers from the first page, blending elements of fantasy and mystery in an enticing narrative. The story opens with Red boldly declaring her intent to follow in her father’s footsteps on a dangerous quest to find her missing mother. The dialogue is crisp, immediately pulling readers into a world of fog-drenched castles, vanishing royalty, and legendary adventures. Red’s character, with her fierce determination and quiet resolve, is the beating heart of this tale. She reminds us that even the most unlikely hero can challenge destiny.
Unlike traditional tales of epic quests, Leaping Beauty takes a fresh approach, showcasing how quests are not always filled with triumph and glory. They can be a test of endurance, a theme that Fox explores beautifully. Red’s discoveries reveal that courage isn’t just about fighting battles but about pushing through uncertainty and loss. The novel’s atmosphere is rich with tension and symbolism. The persistent rain that falls after the Queen’s disappearance mirrors the kingdom’s grief, while the creeping fog that winds through the castle grounds hints at the uncertainty of the journey ahead. Red spends her time poring over ancient texts in the castle’s vast library, searching for answers to her mother’s vanishing and the strange fog engulfing her world. These scenes add depth, showing that Leaping Beauty isn’t just a fantasy tale but an exploration of familial duty, perseverance, and the battle between hope and despair. As the story builds to its thrilling conclusion, readers are treated to a heart-pounding moment of truth. Red and her companions face the mystery that has haunted them, leading to a surprising and emotional climax. The eerie atmosphere, combined with moments of humor and camaraderie, strikes a perfect balance. Fox weaves together the fantastical and the human, reminding us that in a world of magic and danger, it’s the strength of friendships and human connection that ultimately triumphs.
Leaping Beauty is a must-read for fans of epic quests, magical realism, and character-driven stories. It invites readers into a world where bravery is defined not just by vanquishing monsters but by holding onto hope even when the path forward is uncertain. The journey itself, and the bonds formed along the way, make this story both thought-provoking and deeply resonant.
Pages: 442 | ISBN : 1739356101
Ghost Train
Ghost Train by Natalie Anna Jacobsen is a spellbinding Japanese fantasy novel that feels like stepping into a vivid dream. Set in 1877 during the Meiji Restoration, it artfully blends history, folklore, and fantasy, evoking the feel of an immersive film. At its heart is Maru Hosokawa, a samurai’s daughter, who must confront the literal and figurative ghosts of her past. As trains slice through Kyoto’s ancient landscape and foreign influences permeate Japanese society, Maru’s world transforms. Her journey intertwines with spirits, yokai, and a mischievous kitsune, all of whom pull her deeper into a mystery that mirrors the shifting world around her. Jacobsen’s use of rich imagery and cultural references conjures a time when belief in the supernatural wasn’t mere myth but an everyday reality. The narrative creates a vivid world where readers can almost feel the steam from locomotives and hear the whispers of ghosts drifting in the wind.
The novel introduces us to Maru’s struggle as she encounters the haunting “ghost train,” powered by spirits resisting Japan’s relentless modernization. Torn between her family’s traditional values and the encroaching new world, Maru must confront her inner demons and accept her grief, waiting for her father to restore her life to what it once was. The themes of loss and adaptation are deeply woven into the story, making Maru’s journey as emotional as it is mysterious. Imagining this book feels like picturing a Studio Ghibli film set during the Meiji era, layered with legends, ghosts, and an atmosphere that is simultaneously cozy and haunting. It brings to life a 19th-century Kyoto where tradition and modernity collide in the most magical way. Jacobsen’s imagery is breathtaking. Every detail feels like a love letter to Japan, honoring its culture and history while capturing the tension of a society caught between the old and the new. You can almost hear the ghost train’s eerie whistle slicing through the mist and feel the weight of spirits whispering around Maru. The meticulous research is apparent throughout the book, turning every description into a celebration of Japan’s rich past and its haunting folklore. The novel feels perfect for a chilly evening, blending fantasy with the real-world issues of modernization and the impact of Westernization on traditional cultures. It’s not only a captivating fantasy but also a moving exploration of cultural transition. Admittedly, Ghost Train can be challenging to dive into initially. The frequent use of Japanese proverbs, historical references, and folklore may feel dense for those unfamiliar with the culture. Yet, this complexity adds an undeniable authenticity. It’s like being invited into a secret world, and the effort to understand it only enriches the reading experience. For fans of Japanese literature and fantasy, this book is a treasure. The prose is elegant, and the story unfolds with a graceful, almost lyrical beauty.
What truly stands out is how alive the story feels. The city of Kyoto emerges as a character in its own right, breathing and evolving in response to the events around it. The slow pacing may deter some readers, but it complements the book’s atmospheric, detail-rich storytelling. This isn’t a sprint; it’s a deliberate, immersive journey where magic lives in the nuances. For those who enjoy slow-burning fantasies with richly developed settings, Ghost Train promises a hauntingly beautiful ride through a world where the past and present dance with spirits and legends.
Pages: 417 | ASIN : B0DHSXH8FM
LITERARY TITAN 