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The Djinn Entrapment
Leigh Mascolino’s The Djinn Entrapment offers a thrilling exploration into a unique realm of hidden creatures and uncharted dimensions. Our protagonist, Melody, is endowed with an extraordinary power she has guarded since childhood, a power allowing her to perceive unseen entities and glimpses from a realm beyond ours that holds implications for her everyday life.
Following the abrupt, devastating loss of her mother, Melody is confronted by her deepest dread – the Others, a group of enigmatic, perilous beings with a profound influence on her world and those dear to her. Despite swiftly resuming the rhythm of regular life, she continues to feel the ripple effects of her uncanny powers, leading her down a path to an unexpected odyssey.
The novel is a masterfully crafted piece, maintaining a smooth narrative pace and offering an engaging reading experience. Each character is meticulously fleshed out, assuming a significant role in Melody’s life, particularly as she comes to grips with an inescapable reality – she must face the Djinn. These elusive entities are implicated in her mother’s demise, and this revelation fuels Melody’s resolve to seek answers and confront these forces. As she grasps the magnitude of her quest, Melody is confronted with the substantial risks it presents and the necessity for successfully conquering her gravest fears.
Mascolino’s work shines as a sterling example of young adult fiction, effortlessly merging the exhilarating elements of the supernatural realm with quintessential coming-of-age challenges and the quotidian experiences of adolescence. This engaging read appeals to a broad spectrum of readers who relish sci-fi/adventure narratives with fantasy undertones. The dialogue is dynamic, authentic, and imbued with youthful energy, offering the reader a glimpse into the challenges of teenage life juxtaposed against Melody’s extraordinary journey to battle the Djinn.
The Djinn Entrapment is an enthralling page-turner that masterfully amalgamates elements of fantasy and adventure, drama, and a sprinkling of romance to weave a captivating narrative. I eagerly anticipate delving into more of Mascolino’s imaginative realm in her future works.
Pages: 286 | ASIN: B0C8BN8G4P
The Lost Son (Second Edition)
The Lost Son by Aidan Lucid is an engaging fantasy story that will captivate young readers with its thrilling narrative centered around the journey of Henry Simmons. Transported to a mysterious realm on his prom night, Henry, accompanied by his date Tracey, becomes entangled in a profound struggle between forces of good and evil. This enthralling tale introduces readers to a diverse array of characters, including two British-American WWII pilots, a skilled healer’s apprentice, and a young boy with aspirations of knighthood, forming an ensemble that embarks on a transformative odyssey in the mystical land of Zargothia.
The novel adeptly combines elements of time travel, fantasy, and alternate worlds, intricately weaving them into a tapestry of intrigue and adventure. Notably, it is the overarching themes of perseverance and friendship that lend a distinctive and commendable quality to the book. Despite being burdened with the weight of the “Chosen One” mantle, Henry remains a relatable protagonist, navigating the trials and tribulations of his journey with fallibility and earnest effort. His relatability is further enhanced by his positive attitude, which resonates amidst the complex decisions and conflicting emotions he grapples with throughout the narrative. Furthermore, the dynamic camaraderie shared among Henry, Hannorah, Daniel, and Tracey, the core friend group, provides delightful interludes of entertainment, adding depth and humor to the story’s vibrant action sequences.
The exposition, although informative, could have been artfully presented to enhance reader engagement. Some sections, such as the introduction to the new world and the historical “movie” depicting the conflict, occasionally inundate readers with an abundance of information, potentially overshadowing the narrative’s flow. The teenage love segments lacked the necessary chemistry to immerse readers in the characters’ romantic entanglements fully. However, it is essential to highlight that this does not detract from the book’s primary focus, allowing readers to remain immersed in its captivating storyline and overall essence.
The Lost Son by Aidan Lucid is an excellent choice for young readers seeking an enthralling and action-packed fantasy experience set within alternate worlds. The novel’s adept blend of various genres, coupled with its emphasis on perseverance and friendship, ensures an engaging and fulfilling reading adventure for its intended audience.
Pages: 257 | ASIN: B0BHJLSCBL
Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools
W.T. Kosmos’s “Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools” is a wittily crafted, real-life-inspired narrative that adeptly intertwines humor and social critique. Told from the perspective of a dedicated former teacher, the story embraces the value of an education rooted in truth and the audacity to question the status quo.
The protagonist, the spirited fourteen-year-old Blaze Union, is an embodiment of fearless resistance. Unwilling to conform to the senseless rules of her school, she dares to contest authority with remarkable valor. Her bravery extends so far that she even attempts to persuade the Prime Minister of Puddin’ Head Island himself to appoint her as the Puddin’ Head Education Minister.
W.T. Kosmos’s novel provides a stirring commentary on the current state of education in America, particularly the inexplicable trend of banning books. It is a creative, compelling indictment of these absurd practices and a testament to the author’s sharp understanding of the landscape.
“Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools” is a powerful satirical piece primarily aimed at a teenage audience. However, its message transcends age brackets. The author’s underlying theme could resonate more deeply if adults were also considered a primary audience, given the potential implications of their perspective on education.
This book stands out as a unique and imaginative work of satire, a genre where such originality is uncommon. Kosmos’s evident cleverness permeates the narrative, making it a compelling read. For those intrigued by contemporary American satire, this book serves as an outstanding resource. It invites readers into a world where ludicrous norms are questioned and intellectual bravery is celebrated.
Pages: 402 | ASIN: B0C48XBXXR
The What-if Game
No, You’re Crazy follows a teenage girl diagnosed with Cotard’s Syndrome who questions if she is mentally ill or actually clairvoyant. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve always been interested in identity. Who we think we are, how we see ourselves, and how other people see us. But, more than that, how we see the world we live in. I am especially fascinated by how our minds can warp our perception of reality, maybe to protect us from danger, to protect us from ourselves, or to give us happiness. So when I read an article about a strange disease called Cotard’s Syndrome, where the sufferer believes she’s dead, it caught my attention. I was fascinated to hear that some people are living their lives while believing they have already died.
I started to play the what-if game. What if someone thought they were dead and others believed her? Too far-fetched. Well, what if she believed she was physically dead but still spiritually alive and had special powers bestowed on her by a higher power, namely the power of clairvoyance? Okay, now I was on to something. And I began plotting a story.
I wanted to write a novel that left the reader to make many judgments. Is the teenage protagonist crazy or is there something to her wild beliefs? And who gets to decide? So, ultimately, the question is, what’s real and what isn’t?
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
I only wanted my two main characters, Ashlee and Mike, to be true to themselves. Even if Ashlee’s actions are often strange or “crazy,” they always needed to be authentic. That, to me, is the toughest part of writing fiction. Keeping everything genuine when the story itself seems astonishing.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My main goal was to write a story that touched upon the paradox that families can both hurt and heal you. The message or theme No, You’re Crazy delivers is universal and uplifting: That love offers our best chance for survival. Which means we are stronger together than alone.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I have written a cli-fi story set 25 years in the future, when climate change has caused the largest, and deadliest, migration in human history. It’s not only migrants from Latin America headed north as they flee hunger and violence. Americans, too, have joined this dangerous march into northern Canada. This novel is a harrowing portrait of survival and sacrifice that combines a page-turning thriller with a moving look at how trust and acceptance of others can be our salvation. It’s a sweeping saga of displacement, loss, and love told in the voices of eight diverse characters. When it will be available to read, of course, is a mystery even to me. This story is in the hands of several agents and publishers.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
The Fate Of The Immortal Realm
Dylan Dover: Into the Vortex follows a twelve-year-old boy who discovers he is adopted and his biological parents were not human when he finds an enchanted realm. What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
As a parent and teacher, I want to write books that not only entertain but also inspire readers to think about issues that are important in their lives. I, therefore, hope to create characters that readers can connect with and root for as they encounter challenges throughout the novels. In Dylan Dover, I wanted the protagonists to be open-minded and accepting towards others, especially those who may be different from themselves. In an immortal world full of diversity, this was an extremely important factor that was always at the forefront of my writing. In addition, I wanted the characters to display other traits that I believe are morally essential in today’s modern world including compassion, kindness and the willingness to take risks, face adversity and work co-operatively towards a common goal.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
There are many themes that are explored in this book, which I hope are relatable to readers. Family, friendships, and developing one’s identity are some of the themes that the characters grapple with as they face challenges throughout the novel. Facing adversity is also a prevalent theme throughout all six of the Dylan Dover novels. My youngest son, Dylan (no coincidence that the main character in the book shares the same name!) is currently 15 years old. He was 12 when I wrote Dylan Dover: Into The Vortex. When I created the character of Dylan Dover, it was based very much on my son except the real Dylan obviously does not have any magical powers! When I am writing, it is my son’s voice in my head and with his permission, I use many of the experiences he has had in my novels. For example, when I was writing book 5 in the series, we were right in the middle of the Covid pandemic. My son, like so many other young people, was suffering from mental health issues caused by social isolation. Dylan was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and I used his lived experiences in the novel. Dylan Dover had to face his own mental health issues in that book. I am so proud of my son for courageously talking about his challenges and working to dispel the stigmas that are often associated with mental health issues. In addition to these themes, ideas about effective leadership and social justice issues are also important in the Dylan Dover series and I hope that readers will be thinking about these concepts as they read my novels.
Where does the story go in the next book and where do you see it going in the future?
Book 2 titled Dylan Dover: Orion’s Quest, has Dylan, his newly discovered identical brothers Remy and Seth, along with their friends Thea (a wizard), Halle and Oliver (shapeshifters) and Via (a fireball) desperate to discover the secrets of the prophecy which foretold of four siblings, born on the same day, who would be blessed with extraordinary powers. They understand that if they are the ones referred to in the prophecy, then it will be their actions that shall determine the fate of the immortal realm. But if they are the siblings of the prophecy, then there must be a fourth child, a sister, still missing who has yet to be found.
In Book 2, the search for the missing sister and more clues to reveal the truths about the ancient prophecy lead Dylan, his brothers and friends on numerous adventures, crossing between the human and immortal worlds. Greek mythology becomes an important element in book 2, as Orion, the mythological Greek hunter, joins the story. New allies are revealed and alliances formed, but there are also new dangers that threaten the siblings and the existence of all immortals in both dimensions. As the siblings discover their hidden powers, they also uncover secret agendas and threats that have remained concealed until now.
Books 3 – 6 are all written and continue the saga of Dylan, his family and friends. New characters, both friends and villains, will add excitement and adventure. Greek mythology, including the characters of Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon become even more prevalent as the novels progress. The characters will be aged by several years in the last three novels, as the siblings continue to discover the depths of their extraordinary powers, including their ability to time travel, and their role in the immortal realm. New challenges and dangers will arise and the protagonists will have to learn how to harness their powers to save both the human and immortal dimensions.
The books in the Dylan Dover series are:
Book 1: Dylan Dover: Into The Vortex
Book 2: Dylan Dover: Orion’s Quest
Book 3: Dylan Dover: Players Of The Prophecy
Book 4: Dylan Dover: New Order Rising
Book 5: Dylan Dover: Awakenings
Book 6: Dylan Dover: Collateral Damage
I am hopeful that they will all find a home with a publisher very soon!
Author Links: Website | GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok
Dylan believes he is a typical twelve-year-old until he stumbles into a vortex that miraculously transports him to the immortal dimension, a parallel universe.
Dylan not only learns that he is a warlock, but he also discovers a twin brother, extraordinary powers, and a secret prophecy that seems to have Dylan and his family at its crux. Dylan, along with his brother and their new-found wizard friend Thea, begin to unravel the mystery that surrounds their birth and the danger that threatens immortals and humans alike.
In a stunning debut, Lynne Howard’s Dylan Dover: Into the Vortex casts a potent reader’s charm over all youngsters clamouring for a new supernatural hero.
Mystical Force: Volume 5 Shadows and Darkness
Weidhuner’s fifth installment in the critically acclaimed series Mystical Force Volume 5: Shadows and Darkness continues the captivating journey of Detective Shinjo and the mystical Shi-Ria. Engaged in a ceaseless battle against the forces of crime and chaos, their purpose is to maintain equilibrium in their turbulent world.
Our protagonists’ path intertwines with a dangerous and notorious gang, the Poison Starfish, during an unexpected encounter at a shuttered store. A familiar face surfaces amidst this criminal ensemble – Chiyoko, a character carved by hardships and life’s cruel jests. Her sudden appearance initiates a chaotic distraction, perilously endangering Shinjo. However, the timely intervention of Shi-Ria ensures the duo’s survival and successful arrest of the gang.
Shi-Ria’s mysterious visions of Chiyoko start to crystalize, confirming her as the prophetic figure destined to become a Koldar or a Taman Knight, previously hinted at in Weidhuner’s earlier works. As the narrative unfolds, Shinjo, Shi-Ria, and Chiyoko collectively take on the ominous Sons of the Shadow and the looming rise of Kage Dai Yokai.
Maintaining the quintessential style that fans have come to appreciate, Weidhuner crafts each character with an individual narrative, each contributing to the grand tapestry of the series. The novel zips along briskly, with a steady tone, setting the rhythm for the reader’s immersion.
The addition of Chiyoko, previously a shadowy figure in prophetic visions, brings a fresh and intriguing perspective. Yet, one may find themselves longing for more, as the novel’s brevity leaves some questions unanswered. Compared to its predecessors, which offered richer action sequences and diverse points of view, this volume might seem a bit contained.
Mystical Force Volume 5: Shadows and Darkness perseveres in weaving Shinjo and Shi-Ria’s epic as they strive for harmony and order. This book promises to be an engaging read, ideal for fans of riveting adventures, themes of found family, and a hint of an enigma.
Pages: 84 | ASIN : B0C15X2KS7
LITERARY TITAN 