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Gatehouse #1

The Door to Canellin

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Wes is a teenager, with teenage troubles, who feels as if his world is crashing down around him. But when he discovers the house in the woods that wasn't there before, he finds himself thrust into Canellin, a world of dragons, monsters, magic, and mayhem. What's more, he discovers that his own unique talents may be the key to Canellin's salvation, and his own. Unfortunately, his only way home is halfway around the known world, in the lands controlled by an evil dragon bent on the eradication of all human life!

Wes' father, however, has his own plan: find his wayward son, and bring him home safely no matter the cost!

302 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 16, 2011

3 people are currently reading
204 people want to read

About the author

E.H. Jones

8 books10 followers
Eric Jones is a single father living in southern Indiana. He has always been interested in creative writing, but did not complete his first full length novel until his early thirties. Eric is a computer technician, and an avid reader of fantasy, sci fi, and horror novels, comic books, and the occasional pulp story. He is a movie buff, a fan of Doctor Who, and a trivia whiz on all things Superman. Totally aside from his writing aspirations, he also has a pretty decent singing voice.

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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Katy.
1,293 reviews307 followers
July 17, 2011
A fast-paced and thrilling young adult fantasy adventure, “The Door to Canellin (Gatehouse #1)” is full of action as well as providing a story that will be fun for anyone who is a fan of fantasy adventure stories. While providing plenty of action, it is not just a hack-and-slash story; it also provides plenty of character development and an interesting plot.

Wes is a typical teenage boy – sullen, emotions in a riot, devoted to doing as little as possible to get by in school and to get away with as much as possible in the rest of his life. He has also had trouble with a bully at school; and plays the trumpet in band. This day he is having a particularly bad day – the bully is giving him a hard time, his first chair seat in band has been taken from him, and his band teacher has lectured him about not putting forth enough effort. When a fellow band member is bothered by the bully at lunch, Wes loses it. They are both sent to the principal’s office, but the bully has no intention of letting things go and attacks Wes – when Wes retaliates, he ends up being suspended over the school’s Zero Tolerance policy about fighting.

Wes’s father, Paul, has been having trouble of his own, mostly at work, and when he has to leave work – again – to pick up Wes, he is threatened with losing his job if he doesn’t stop leaving work like this. Paul leaves Wes with his parents (Wes’s grandparents), and Wes, after doing many chores for them, goes out for a walk in the woods. While out there, he sees a mysterious little man, whom he follows to a hollow in which stands a ramshackle old shack – however, Wes doesn’t remember ever seeing this place before. Paul has arrived at his parents’ place in the meantime, and gone out into the woods looking for Wes, whom he finds just as Wes enters the shack. By the time Paul enters the shack, Wes is gone – and Paul follows him through a magical door to another realm – for Wes and Paul have entered the Gatehouse, from which a person can travel to many different places, realms and even planes of reality. The adventures they will each face will change them both completely.

While the initial plot upon entrance to Canellin is a bit spare, this is more than made up for during the thrilling and exciting denouement. Also, unlike many stories of this type, the characters are well-developed and their interactions are nicely realistic. Wes is portrayed as a teenage boy in all his sullenness and temper, unlike in many stories where boys his age are unrealistically mature. I found this all immensely refreshing. I think fans of fantasy and adventure, whether they are young adults or older adults, will all find something to love in this story. Also, keep a watch out in the fall of 2011 for the 2nd book in the Gatehouse series, “The Door to Justice.” I know I will be!
Profile Image for Emi.
280 reviews23 followers
June 11, 2011
As a reviewer of indie books, I come across a lot of…well, let’s just call it not-so-stellar fiction. However, on occasion I’m lucky enough to be introduced to a book that makes me stop and say, “I could totally see this in Borders. Wait a sec...why ISN’T this in Borders?!” The Door to Canellin is one of these books. Well written and fast-paced, Jones has expertly crafted a world of magic, monsters, and modern heroes that even those who are not a fan of the fantasy genre will be able to appreciate and enjoy.

At face value, The Door to Canellin’s plot isn’t anything brand-spankin’ new—a boy and his father enter through a magical Gatehouse and are transported into a medieval-like fantasy world in order to save it—but everything about this novel is so well done that it stands out among the books that I’ve read. In spirit, the concept sort of reminded me of a combination of The Chronicles of Narnia and The Hobbit. But instead of a wardrobe and a ring you get a lovable thief, double crossing dragon warriors, and a father-son relationship that’s worthy of a Disney channel movie (I say that as a compliment, mind you).

Learning about the characters was probably my favorite part of the book. The cast is large, but Jones handled all of them with love and I finished the book without feeling like anyone got left behind. Split into two parties, the different perspectives give the reader the chance to get to know everyone and relate to each individual’s life story, especially Wes and his father, Ryan. Right from the beginning, the reader can see that Ryan loves his son despite his flaws, and is willing to chase after Wes in order to make sure he's safe. Wes, in turn, learns that his father will love him no matter what, and realizes that he should work harder to reach his full potential. For a “problem child,” Wes wasn’t that annoying—a little self important and lazy, sure, but find me a teenager that isn’t before standing up to a dragon. Really though, his heart was always in the right place, and more often than not Wes was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Wes and Ryan walk away with new found love and respect, which will obviously go a long way in the sequel.

The Door to Canellin is one of those books that I could totally see sitting on the shelf next to Percy Jackson and the Olympians or the Fablehaven series. Seriously. It’s a fast read, it’s a fun read, it was well written, and it was the perfect way to kick off a fantasy series. Though the ending provides the reader with a solid conclusion (no cliffhanger, YAY!), there lingers a promise for future excitement. I honestly can’t wait to see where the Gatehouse takes Wes and Ryan next!
Profile Image for Robert.
Author 2 books25 followers
May 14, 2011
Gatehouse: The Door to Canellin follows the story of modern-day boy, Wes, who stumbles across a mysterious house in the woods behind his grandparents house. The "gatehouse" is home of doorways which lead to various worlds and universes. Wes finds himself pushed into one such doorway by the mystical dwarf-like figure, Pomander, who tells Wes he needs to slay an evil dragon to return to his world.

What follows is an entertaining and well-written story as Wes first comes to terms with the medieval environment of the `Collegium' where he finds himself, as well as the knowledge that he is capable of magic. I won't go into detail and spoil the story, but what follows is a quest undertaken by Wes and an old soldier, Gideon, who aids him in escaping the collegium to begin the quest. unknown to Wes, his father Ryan also enters the portal to Canellin, searching for him. Finding Wes had left weeks earlier, the result of time distortion between worlds, Ryan gathers his own companions and sets off after Wes.

The two story lines offer an entertaining perspective to the story, giving the reader the chance to relate to multiple characters. It also explores the father/son relationship between Ryan and Wes, giving it a modern twist in a medieval realm. Jones' narrative voice is excellent as he draws the reader into the world of Canellin, with very few typo's or grammatical errors, no more than you would find in most mass-published books. I couldn't fault it, and although the sudden power the two earthlings learn rapidly seems a bit too convenient, it was explained well and did not leave me feeling too ripped off. Perhaps a little more description here and there wouldn't have gone astray in terms of setting up a likeable world and people, as I didn't really feel a connection with the plight of the common man.

With a second book in the works, I look forward to returning to the Gatehouse.

~Robert Day
www.robertdaybooks.com
Profile Image for Jeffrey Poole.
Author 44 books228 followers
May 5, 2011
The Door to Canellin (Gatehouse) follows the story of young Wes, who is a typical teenager struggling to fit in to society, and is met with resistance everywhere he looks. While exploring behind his grandparent’s house, he discovers a mysterious house in an area of the woods that had previously been vacant. The house is a Gateway, with doors/portals leading off to many different worlds. The person in charge sends Wes to Canellin to deal with an evil dragon.

Hot on his heals, though, is Ryan, Wes’s father. Investigating the disappearance of his son, he tracks him to the dilapidated house and is sent after his son, only his arrival is two months after his son’s arrival. In that time, the son has already learned he possesses some skill with magic, and with the help of a loyal friend, has started out on his quest.

I really enjoyed this story, as I’m particularly fond of books that deal with the discovery of portals which lead to magical lands. You’ll find an evil dragon (as illustrated by the awesome cover for the book!), its loyal dragonmen, and epic battles. I was drawn to the conflict that existed in the beginning of the book between Wes and his father. Right away the reader can see that Ryan cares tremendously for his son, and is willing to follow Wes anywhere in order to make sure he’s safe. Wes, in turn, learns that a father’s love is unconditional, and together, the two of them forge a new relationship that includes trust and respect.

To anyone out there that enjoys a good fantasy story, give this one a try. You’ll not be disappointed. Eric, I truly enjoyed your story and can’t wait for the next one to come out! You’ll have to let me know when it’s ready! Good job!
Profile Image for Scott.
282 reviews49 followers
May 4, 2011
First off the cover art for this book is amazing. I was totally drawn as soon as I saw it, and happily the cover supports the story. The story follows Wes, a young boy who has some trouble in school. He is not a bad kid by any means, but he doesn't really try to reach his potential at all. This adventure begins by Wes getting suspended for fighting even though he defended another kid from getting picked on. This gets Wes into trouble and he spends the day with his grandparents doing chores for them. He eventually makes his way to the woods out back and finds the Gatehouse. From here he is transported to a whole new world (Canellin) where he is regarded as a savior. His father ends up following him into this new realm where he comes to understand his son a little bit better.

This story would be great for young adults. It explores the relationship between parents and children in a way that you empathize with both sides of the conflict. The story moves along well and there are some great supporting characters. I am completely looking forward to another book in this series!
106 reviews29 followers
January 17, 2012
I loved this! Its such a good read, for me its got everything I love about fantasy,Magic, dragons and a hero :) I read it in 3 days I couldnt stop reading. Its an easy read being YA but well written and just captures your imagination. I would recommend this book to anyone regardless of age or hardened fantasy readers who dont like cliche. I hope theres more to come for Wes and Ryan :)
Profile Image for Alanna (The Flashlight Reader).
419 reviews83 followers
June 3, 2011
The synopsis from the back cover does NOTHING for this book. It sounds good, but it doesn't even begin to hint on all of the complex and completely awesome elements found in The Door to Canellin.

To begin with, there were multiple plots intricately woven together. It was amazing to read the same story told from several characters points of view AND still be able to find the depth in each individual character. All of the plots eventually merged into the same story, which heightened the climax of the story.

Most books that I have read lately have followed a traditional plot line. Rising action, climax, falling action and resolution-- just like the books in your high school literature class. All of the elements were in this book (obviously), but it was a constant up and down, which kept me turning the pages. Just when I thought that some major catastrophic event was about to occur, the story would switch to a new character--or take a completely unexpected turn-- and start to build the tension anew. It was knuckle-biting suspense all the way through.

I'm a huge fantasy fan; I can't even pretend like I'm not. With that being said, it's no surprise that I was drawn to the magical/fantasy elements in this book. What fantasy fan can resist a maniacal dragon, wizards, and double crossing dragon warriors? Not to mention our Black Knight worthy of Arthurian legend (definitely some similarities there) and the lovable and honorable thief, Elarie. Oh, and there is Jiane-- a completely rockin' swordsWOMAN that can best the top blademasters.

As I said, I liked how everything tied together. The complex story was well thought out and orchestrated. The details certainly make this story! The ending is complete, but also sets the stage for future novels. Plus, the underlying theme of father and son relationship building was great. It didn't seem over the top or forced. It was believable, and a great coming of age story.
Profile Image for Steve Thomas.
Author 16 books43 followers
Read
February 18, 2012
Star Rating withheld, because it's not fair to rate a book when I'm clearly not its target audience.

The Door to Canellin has two protagonists: Wes and Ryan. Wes is a problem child who spends his days lashing out at anyone who gains his attention. Ryan is a down-on-his-luck single father, trying his best to keep Wes out of trouble or, failing that, to minimize the damage. Drama ensues until Wes stumbles across a magical house that sends him into a fantasy world, where it turns out his English literacy earns him unprecendented magical power. Ryan follows and finds that the world's influence has increased his aptitude for the sword. Due to some speed of time shenanigans, Wes has arrived in Cannelin weeks before his father, even though they were separated by hours in the real world.

Wes sets off to open a path home. The gateway, sadly for him, has a megomaniacal dragon sitting on it. Meanwhile, Ryan tries to catch up with his son. Along the way they face a thief, dragon-men, a very determined government official, and a slew of adventures.

When I was fourteen or fifteen, I might have loved this novel. As a jaded adult, however, I just can't get interested in some punk's journey of self-discovery and his attempts to make peace with his father. On top of that, I found the characters and their dialog to be somewhat wooden.


14-year-old Steve would have appreciated it. But Present-Steve wasn't impressed. I don't think I can really hold that against the book.
Profile Image for Edwin Stark.
Author 27 books15 followers
June 12, 2011
Ok, stop me if you heard this before. Reckless and irresponsible (but good hearted) youth is suddenly plunged into an alternate world, finds he can perform magic, embarks in an against-all-odds quest and succeeds. Yep, it sounds pretty formulaic but E.H. Jones is a skillful writer and, while the rest of us authors can mix tomato, bell peppers and onions into a decent stew, Jones goes all the way in with same elements he's able to give you an impressive Hungarian Goulash that's worthy of any gourmand's palate. I'll put out a example: there's a spot in the tale when Jones requires a super weapon for one of the protagonists to wield: he could have simply tossed in Excalibur and be done with it. Nevertheless, he give us Excalibur's twin, a weapon with its own epic background. You gotta love this sort of inventiveness. And I truly loved the final pages of this book; the villain dragon gets a deserving and twisted comeuppance that got me flabergasted for hours; it's the sort of thing I always try to come up with in my own books, thus it pleased me in such way that I think I re-read that part at least half a dozen times, just to reassure myself the book ended the way I read it first. Marvelous stuff. This book is HIGHLY recommended
Profile Image for Karen B..
457 reviews9 followers
July 11, 2011
I am not normally a sci/fi fantasy reader but this book was a wonderful delightful read.
It is well written and had enough "real life" for me to keep me going throughout. It's a YA book but I think it would appeal to adults as well.
I love the adventure, the love, the loyalty, the fight between good and evil.

Wes is a believable character as a teenager who is "coming of age".
He makes friends and learns a lot about himself and his father as they embark on an adventure filled with magic, battle and dragons.
I found echoes of The Hobbit, The Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter and nods to Arthurian legend. Wes' conflict with school and his father seem very real before he enters the little house he finds in the woods. His relationship with his father continues once he enters the world of Canellin.
It took me a while to read this book, but I think that was because I was enjoying it so much and didn't want to rush through it.
I am sure that those more familar with legends and mythology will find more references than I did but that did not detract from my reading. I think this would be a fun book for a parent and tween to read together and discuss.
Profile Image for Eliza Baum.
530 reviews34 followers
September 21, 2014
THE DOOR TO CANELLIN is one of my favorite sorts of fantasy novels--where someone from the "real" world gets sucked into a fantasy world for his/her own set of adventures. In that regard, this novel doesn't disappoint. Both Wes and his dad, Ryan, have some exciting adventures and learn a lot along the way. The narrative and ending were fun and satisfying. There's just enough magic and sword-fighting for my taste, not so much that it gets old. Those things are important, but they don't overshadow the interpersonal elements.

My only real "complaint" (and I use the word rather loosely) was the changing in point of view between Wes and Ryan. I understood why it was needed, and I liked each individually, but in some ways it was like jumping between a young adult novel and a "grown-up" novel. It couldn't quite be either, which was jarring. The feeling eased up about halfway through, when it was obvious that they were each on their own journeys (and probably because I got used to it), but it was enough that I almost thought about putting it down. I'm glad now that I didn't.

Looking forward to seeing what the sequel will have to offer.
Profile Image for Kristina Franken.
493 reviews14 followers
September 10, 2012
Over the years, I have read many young adult science fiction/fantasy books with my sons, and I truly believe this novel will make a great addition to the genre. The author skillfully paints a picture of the world of Canellin and transports us there. The characters are well-developed and, as I read, I quickly came to love them. I worried with Ryan as he feared for his son, and I commiserated with Wes as he suffered the pangs that are a part of growing up. I felt as if I lived the adventure right along with characters, which, in my mind, is the mark of a good story. I was sad as the adventure came to an end, but hold out hope as I eagerly await the adventure behind the next door.

I highly recommend this book for anyone

FTC: I received a free copy of this book and was not reimbursed in any other way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Deanna Benner.
9 reviews
September 3, 2011
I loved it!!! A Young boy and his father thrown into a strange world threw a magical doorway where dragons threaten life as the inhabitants know it.Full of magic and mystery. I can't wait until the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Literary Chanteuse.
1,055 reviews180 followers
October 29, 2013
This was Harry Potter meets Lord of the Rings. Awesome! Full of magic,dragons,battles and more yet to come with the next book. Can't wait!
Profile Image for Amanda Kern.
726 reviews8 followers
December 19, 2014
Awesome book

I can not wait till I have time to read the next book. I want to know what happens. Not only between the father and son.
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