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Ian's Realm Saga #1
Deception Peak
Deception Peak is now Book 1 in the Ian's Realm Saga.
AISN: B01HHOM1XU
ISBN: 978-0692976128
Part 1. Deception Peak
Ian's Realm Saga, is a young adult adventure fantasy about a teenager, Ian Wilson, who follows his father, Alex, through a portal that magically appears on their computer screen while they are creating a game engine. They travel into a deceptively beautiful Realm, where horses run wild, the wind sings prophetic melodies, and their computer avatar (Xylon) comes to life. But when the two are separated, Ian is abducted by a tribe of dragon worshipers. In his struggle to be released, he causes chaos in the village and is banished into the wilderness with two other residents. They come upon a group of people who live for the sole purpose to destroy the dragon. They agree to help Ian find his father deep in the caves of the dragon's lair.
Alex is found, but not without sacrifice, causing a deepened relationship between Ian and the Kaempern leader, Amleth.
Alex and Ian ride for the portal home with the dragon at their heels. Alex, his father stops in his tracks and goes back with the intent to slay the dragon, sending his son to the portal to wait for him with the instructions that if he doesn't return by morning, go home without him. Alex never returns.
Part 2 Dragon Shield
Integrity isn't something you do, it's who you are," Aren tells the confused Ian in The Dragon Shield.
Now a young man, Ian returns to the magical Realm to fight against the tyranny that has befallen his friends. But the Realm is a different place, the forest is dying, the Kaemperns have lost the shield that protected them from the dragon, and Ian has a hard time proving his allegiance when trouble follows him through the portal. His struggle to do right buries him in confusion when he's confronted with a young boy who wields a powerful magical dagger which summons the dragon.
Part 3 Rubies and Robbers
"I will not let fear weaken us, not now" -says Ian as he dives into the cold waters of Moor Cove to find the escapees.
Ian has proven his abilities as a warrior and now the most dangerous battle begins, the battle against the power of evil. Ian must unravel the secrets of the mountain and discern whom his real enemy is, the enemy both without and within. He tackles with the twelve-year-old boy who seems to hold the fate of the entire Realm in his hands, and yet the pressing Songs of Wisdom call for compassion in his dealings. Ian leads his men in the fight against the powers of darkness. But he must also be willing to sacrifice everything he ever hoped to have in order to save those he loves.
AISN: B01HHOM1XU
ISBN: 978-0692976128
Part 1. Deception Peak
Ian's Realm Saga, is a young adult adventure fantasy about a teenager, Ian Wilson, who follows his father, Alex, through a portal that magically appears on their computer screen while they are creating a game engine. They travel into a deceptively beautiful Realm, where horses run wild, the wind sings prophetic melodies, and their computer avatar (Xylon) comes to life. But when the two are separated, Ian is abducted by a tribe of dragon worshipers. In his struggle to be released, he causes chaos in the village and is banished into the wilderness with two other residents. They come upon a group of people who live for the sole purpose to destroy the dragon. They agree to help Ian find his father deep in the caves of the dragon's lair.
Alex is found, but not without sacrifice, causing a deepened relationship between Ian and the Kaempern leader, Amleth.
Alex and Ian ride for the portal home with the dragon at their heels. Alex, his father stops in his tracks and goes back with the intent to slay the dragon, sending his son to the portal to wait for him with the instructions that if he doesn't return by morning, go home without him. Alex never returns.
Part 2 Dragon Shield
Integrity isn't something you do, it's who you are," Aren tells the confused Ian in The Dragon Shield.
Now a young man, Ian returns to the magical Realm to fight against the tyranny that has befallen his friends. But the Realm is a different place, the forest is dying, the Kaemperns have lost the shield that protected them from the dragon, and Ian has a hard time proving his allegiance when trouble follows him through the portal. His struggle to do right buries him in confusion when he's confronted with a young boy who wields a powerful magical dagger which summons the dragon.
Part 3 Rubies and Robbers
"I will not let fear weaken us, not now" -says Ian as he dives into the cold waters of Moor Cove to find the escapees.
Ian has proven his abilities as a warrior and now the most dangerous battle begins, the battle against the power of evil. Ian must unravel the secrets of the mountain and discern whom his real enemy is, the enemy both without and within. He tackles with the twelve-year-old boy who seems to hold the fate of the entire Realm in his hands, and yet the pressing Songs of Wisdom call for compassion in his dealings. Ian leads his men in the fight against the powers of darkness. But he must also be willing to sacrifice everything he ever hoped to have in order to save those he loves.
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
228 pages, Paperback
First published August 19, 2012
4 people are currently reading
616 people want to read
About the author
D.L. Gardner
53 books183 followersWith a passion for a good wholesome story, Gardner dives into the adult and young adult fantasy genres. She is both a best selling author and an award winning illustrator who lives in the Pacific Northwest, USA. Dabbling in screenwriting, she's won screenings and a trophy for some of her film projects.
She loves a tale that ignites imaginations, strengthens friendships, spurs courage and applauds honor. Though she targets her stories for young adults, her books are enjoyed by all ages.
D.L. Gardner is a columnist for the science fiction and fantasy publication Amazing Stories Magazine
http://amazingstoriesmag.com/2017/10/...
Librarian Note: Also writes under the pen name Dianne Lynn Gardner.
She loves a tale that ignites imaginations, strengthens friendships, spurs courage and applauds honor. Though she targets her stories for young adults, her books are enjoyed by all ages.
D.L. Gardner is a columnist for the science fiction and fantasy publication Amazing Stories Magazine
http://amazingstoriesmag.com/2017/10/...
Librarian Note: Also writes under the pen name Dianne Lynn Gardner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 25, 2013
I want to rush out right now and buy this for my discerning reader and petulant twelve-year-old my wonderful 12 year-old son Liam.
This is a child who is reading at college level and has been since he was 9. It is a constant struggle keeping him in books because it seems these days so many series skip from first chapter books and fly right through the Wonder Years, right past GO and forget the not all the boys play sports or video games, some of these boys read. There are only so many times a child can read Harry Potter or the Warrior Cat Series. Sure, there are books out there written for boys, but as I said, discerning… book snob.. petulant? With such a small pile to choose from, plus being über picky when it comes to what he reads. He read Anchihiiroo – Origin of an Antihero (Toonopolis Shorts, #1) by J.Rodden and though he said it was to short (umm yes Liam, it is a short story) he liked it, in fact he gave it five moose poo’s! (which is a five-star rating in any 12-year old boys mind because at this age forget about bow ties, moose poo is cool), but he was not interested in reading anything else in the series. He needs meat on his bones, he is not Henry Jones (oh and BTW never teach your children old Choir songs you sang when you were in school, especially jazz ones. This is one of his favorite to sing when he decides he does not want to eat what is for dinner or is in the shower or just plain old in high-speed monkey-doodle mode tunes and .. OK maybe you should because it is hilarious every time I hear him sing it!)
Having said and shared all of that, he is also a child who read Ender’s Game, (over one weekend mind you, he would not put it down even when eating, and glared if we even suggested it.) got all hyper, jumped up and down and did a fist pump and a tiny bit of jazz hand action, turned around three times and said with open arms, dropping to his knees (I am not exaggerating here, and yes obviously this is my child) and clasped his hands in front of his chest giving me his best begging for it look and said
“More… mother dear, give me MORE!”
To which I promptly and with aplomb gave him Speaker for the Dead to which he replied with one raised eyebrow, “Hmmmm? Mom, ummm the dead don’t talk, this is not like that stupid movie is it?” OK so he gets to watch weird and bad movies with me, but let us get to the point, the second in the Ender series was just to old for him subject wise, even the title had him going “meh” He got about a third of the way through and set it aside. When I asked him about it he shrugged his shoulders and said, “I just don’t get Ender’s new gig anymore, he is to old for me. I will finish it later.” As in, he will pick it up in a few years and get it. His brother, who is going to be 23 did the same thing at about the same age and at 14 finished the series and re-read it several times. My point is, where are the wonderful books I remember reading as a petulant discerning book snob of 12? We had them in spades! But I was girl…wait I still am I think but I digress. Sure there are the classics, and Liam has read them all. He has a beautiful collection of leather-bound books he has read over and over, especially Tale of Two Cities and Treasure Island.
Deception Peak is a book that will be part of his Christmas pile of plunder this year. This child is going to adore it and the series will be in his favorite pile. He still has typical tendencies of regular 12-year olds, loves video games – (the child is also scary good at them because of his dexterity level. Did you know that dexterity is directly linked to your comprehension and reading skills as a child. Seriously go google it) tells bathroom flavored humor like a pro, and likes to ride his bike over homemade ramps. This book is written at just the perfect pace for a kids his age to stay intrigued and hooked, it does not get muddled down with details, it keeps you holding your breath at the right moments and reads like a classic fantasy. The story structure for the fantasy aspect is somewhat like one of those good old fashioned RPG games on the computer. Liam loves those games and will get all the video game innuendoes and subtleties veiling a very hard lesson being taught for not only the child protagonist, Ian in the story, but also his father Alex. I would highly recommend this book to single fathers to read along with their sons. I get goose bumps when I think of some of the haunting songs the author uses as story breaks throughout the tale.
“Brave on little soldier, brave into the night
Your journeys before you, your song’s in the light
For many you seek and many you save
Though darkness surrounds you, and powers are great
Though night overcomes the sweetness of day
Brave on through despair, Press on in the fight
The tunnel of grieving, imprisoned by might
The worst will be over and darkness will ebb
You will aft find your way, and wake up in your bed”
pgs. 55-56 — Deception Peak -Dianne Lynne Gardner ©2012
Ian is a child I did not really like at first, yes he is a teenager and yes he has had it hard. His mother died and it seems as if his father was barely hanging by a thread he was so wrapped up in his grief. He is a bit, but he was not the kid in school that is always picked on, but just a smart kid that mouthed off, had a flippant attitude and drew beautifully rendered swords in the corners of his in textbooks. Yep, typical geek behavior I would have to say. His father ran a foundry and made medieval armory, he also was a video game designer. It seems to me this was a project which i to be for both of them, Ian is very artistic (text-book – drawing of swords yada yada?). What more could a boy want? Yet he is typical in the fact some of it is taken a bit for granted. Not a totally typical teenager, he has an obvious deep and abiding love and respect for his father, but is continually having inner dialogues questioning his fathers actions. This turns out to be another great story device making it so appropriate and one that should be used in a classroom setting for reading. It really is written with such intelligent and incredibly woven seamless segues. Oh if she was an SCA’er she would be in the Order of the Winged Harp where all great Bards reside!
Right from the start of Deception Peak, you can see there is a lot of love between father and son, but there is also a sense of distance. There is more talking at each other instead of to each other, almost going through the motions, wanting to connect and needing too but never actually making it. The novel starts off with a dream of Ian’s. It is a perfect prologue for what is to come in this awesome tale. But what happens in the next chapter was a complete surprise to me! I was totally taken back by his father’s irresponsible and child-like actions. If it were Ian it would be understandable, being it would have been the actions of a reckless youth. But for a father to thrust his son into this world which started off as rendering a 3D portal engine as a project for father and son, to exploring a world literally within a computer, or at least the computer program created a “portal” to this world, or …. a “window” (I had to giggle a lot when I read this and tittered a bit more when I read it glowed blue, Liam is going to think this is SO cool! He is a Windows™ man!), had my head spinning a bit. I ended up going back and re-reading the first three chapters and felt a bit better about it. Though, that was me, don’t take that as a ding, my brain was not functioning to clearly, I think I fell asleep mid-chapter on that one, anyway moving along.
With trepidation on Ian’s part, and having nightmares or weird prophetic dreams with more quest like songs being song in the air when he is awake and asleep, they enter the portal and begin to explore a little more each day. They even find horses and ride being able to explore more and more. Ian is still not sure what to think of all of this. (oh and by this point I really could not put it down. If I had not been feeling off physically and falling asleep in my book all the time, which is cool with books like this because I just keep going in my own version). The real action starts when Alex decides they are going camping for the weekend, and not just a few hours. By this time, the learn from one of the characters Ian ever rendered while beginning the video game project, there is a dragon (Yes Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dave there is a Dragon!). A big, bad scary dragon, and Ian? He does not want anything to do with it. Smart lad as it turns out. His father? Not so much so… To go any further would be doing spoilers, and you all know me, Sweeties, I do not do spoilers.
Parents of boys, and of adventurous girls of the age range from 12 up, because let’s face it I loved the story. Yes it is YA and it is not written for me. This is not a book written for soccer mom’s and labeled young-adult fiction, this is a book for kids of middle school and up who want a good hearty fantasy read. Who like meat on their bones and want dragons, and swords and quests, OH MY! Just in time for Christmas. We are debating Paperwhites for the kids and I may have to load this on them if we decide to do so. But he is getting a hard copy, because only in the hard copy do you get the beautiful illustrations our author has done.
This is a child who is reading at college level and has been since he was 9. It is a constant struggle keeping him in books because it seems these days so many series skip from first chapter books and fly right through the Wonder Years, right past GO and forget the not all the boys play sports or video games, some of these boys read. There are only so many times a child can read Harry Potter or the Warrior Cat Series. Sure, there are books out there written for boys, but as I said, discerning… book snob.. petulant? With such a small pile to choose from, plus being über picky when it comes to what he reads. He read Anchihiiroo – Origin of an Antihero (Toonopolis Shorts, #1) by J.Rodden and though he said it was to short (umm yes Liam, it is a short story) he liked it, in fact he gave it five moose poo’s! (which is a five-star rating in any 12-year old boys mind because at this age forget about bow ties, moose poo is cool), but he was not interested in reading anything else in the series. He needs meat on his bones, he is not Henry Jones (oh and BTW never teach your children old Choir songs you sang when you were in school, especially jazz ones. This is one of his favorite to sing when he decides he does not want to eat what is for dinner or is in the shower or just plain old in high-speed monkey-doodle mode tunes and .. OK maybe you should because it is hilarious every time I hear him sing it!)
Having said and shared all of that, he is also a child who read Ender’s Game, (over one weekend mind you, he would not put it down even when eating, and glared if we even suggested it.) got all hyper, jumped up and down and did a fist pump and a tiny bit of jazz hand action, turned around three times and said with open arms, dropping to his knees (I am not exaggerating here, and yes obviously this is my child) and clasped his hands in front of his chest giving me his best begging for it look and said
“More… mother dear, give me MORE!”
To which I promptly and with aplomb gave him Speaker for the Dead to which he replied with one raised eyebrow, “Hmmmm? Mom, ummm the dead don’t talk, this is not like that stupid movie is it?” OK so he gets to watch weird and bad movies with me, but let us get to the point, the second in the Ender series was just to old for him subject wise, even the title had him going “meh” He got about a third of the way through and set it aside. When I asked him about it he shrugged his shoulders and said, “I just don’t get Ender’s new gig anymore, he is to old for me. I will finish it later.” As in, he will pick it up in a few years and get it. His brother, who is going to be 23 did the same thing at about the same age and at 14 finished the series and re-read it several times. My point is, where are the wonderful books I remember reading as a petulant discerning book snob of 12? We had them in spades! But I was girl…wait I still am I think but I digress. Sure there are the classics, and Liam has read them all. He has a beautiful collection of leather-bound books he has read over and over, especially Tale of Two Cities and Treasure Island.
Deception Peak is a book that will be part of his Christmas pile of plunder this year. This child is going to adore it and the series will be in his favorite pile. He still has typical tendencies of regular 12-year olds, loves video games – (the child is also scary good at them because of his dexterity level. Did you know that dexterity is directly linked to your comprehension and reading skills as a child. Seriously go google it) tells bathroom flavored humor like a pro, and likes to ride his bike over homemade ramps. This book is written at just the perfect pace for a kids his age to stay intrigued and hooked, it does not get muddled down with details, it keeps you holding your breath at the right moments and reads like a classic fantasy. The story structure for the fantasy aspect is somewhat like one of those good old fashioned RPG games on the computer. Liam loves those games and will get all the video game innuendoes and subtleties veiling a very hard lesson being taught for not only the child protagonist, Ian in the story, but also his father Alex. I would highly recommend this book to single fathers to read along with their sons. I get goose bumps when I think of some of the haunting songs the author uses as story breaks throughout the tale.
“Brave on little soldier, brave into the night
Your journeys before you, your song’s in the light
For many you seek and many you save
Though darkness surrounds you, and powers are great
Though night overcomes the sweetness of day
Brave on through despair, Press on in the fight
The tunnel of grieving, imprisoned by might
The worst will be over and darkness will ebb
You will aft find your way, and wake up in your bed”
pgs. 55-56 — Deception Peak -Dianne Lynne Gardner ©2012
Ian is a child I did not really like at first, yes he is a teenager and yes he has had it hard. His mother died and it seems as if his father was barely hanging by a thread he was so wrapped up in his grief. He is a bit, but he was not the kid in school that is always picked on, but just a smart kid that mouthed off, had a flippant attitude and drew beautifully rendered swords in the corners of his in textbooks. Yep, typical geek behavior I would have to say. His father ran a foundry and made medieval armory, he also was a video game designer. It seems to me this was a project which i to be for both of them, Ian is very artistic (text-book – drawing of swords yada yada?). What more could a boy want? Yet he is typical in the fact some of it is taken a bit for granted. Not a totally typical teenager, he has an obvious deep and abiding love and respect for his father, but is continually having inner dialogues questioning his fathers actions. This turns out to be another great story device making it so appropriate and one that should be used in a classroom setting for reading. It really is written with such intelligent and incredibly woven seamless segues. Oh if she was an SCA’er she would be in the Order of the Winged Harp where all great Bards reside!
Right from the start of Deception Peak, you can see there is a lot of love between father and son, but there is also a sense of distance. There is more talking at each other instead of to each other, almost going through the motions, wanting to connect and needing too but never actually making it. The novel starts off with a dream of Ian’s. It is a perfect prologue for what is to come in this awesome tale. But what happens in the next chapter was a complete surprise to me! I was totally taken back by his father’s irresponsible and child-like actions. If it were Ian it would be understandable, being it would have been the actions of a reckless youth. But for a father to thrust his son into this world which started off as rendering a 3D portal engine as a project for father and son, to exploring a world literally within a computer, or at least the computer program created a “portal” to this world, or …. a “window” (I had to giggle a lot when I read this and tittered a bit more when I read it glowed blue, Liam is going to think this is SO cool! He is a Windows™ man!), had my head spinning a bit. I ended up going back and re-reading the first three chapters and felt a bit better about it. Though, that was me, don’t take that as a ding, my brain was not functioning to clearly, I think I fell asleep mid-chapter on that one, anyway moving along.
With trepidation on Ian’s part, and having nightmares or weird prophetic dreams with more quest like songs being song in the air when he is awake and asleep, they enter the portal and begin to explore a little more each day. They even find horses and ride being able to explore more and more. Ian is still not sure what to think of all of this. (oh and by this point I really could not put it down. If I had not been feeling off physically and falling asleep in my book all the time, which is cool with books like this because I just keep going in my own version). The real action starts when Alex decides they are going camping for the weekend, and not just a few hours. By this time, the learn from one of the characters Ian ever rendered while beginning the video game project, there is a dragon (Yes Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dave there is a Dragon!). A big, bad scary dragon, and Ian? He does not want anything to do with it. Smart lad as it turns out. His father? Not so much so… To go any further would be doing spoilers, and you all know me, Sweeties, I do not do spoilers.
Parents of boys, and of adventurous girls of the age range from 12 up, because let’s face it I loved the story. Yes it is YA and it is not written for me. This is not a book written for soccer mom’s and labeled young-adult fiction, this is a book for kids of middle school and up who want a good hearty fantasy read. Who like meat on their bones and want dragons, and swords and quests, OH MY! Just in time for Christmas. We are debating Paperwhites for the kids and I may have to load this on them if we decide to do so. But he is getting a hard copy, because only in the hard copy do you get the beautiful illustrations our author has done.
June 11, 2013
This creative fantasy should be popular with young boys and girls or anyone who is looking for a real escape or adventure. It serves very good messages such as learning to take risks, be a free thinker, be brave and keep an open mind among other life lessons. This is a story of friendship and loyalty as well as courage and wisdom in the most divine sense.
Where it was all going to lead became a real mystery. This story of survival kept me wondering what would happen next. For me, someone who does not welcome change, I feared Alex and Ian were never going to make it home. But would they? You might have to read on to find out!
"Within seconds, the light show vanished and Ian opened one eye. What he had experienced was not at all what he had expected. No unusual sensations fizzled through his body. He hadn't felt like he was plummeting in an elevator, or blasting through space like in a rocket ship. It didn't even feel like he might be racing down an escape chute on an airplane. No jet sounds, or hums, or buzzes, rattled in his ears."
Where it was all going to lead became a real mystery. This story of survival kept me wondering what would happen next. For me, someone who does not welcome change, I feared Alex and Ian were never going to make it home. But would they? You might have to read on to find out!
"Within seconds, the light show vanished and Ian opened one eye. What he had experienced was not at all what he had expected. No unusual sensations fizzled through his body. He hadn't felt like he was plummeting in an elevator, or blasting through space like in a rocket ship. It didn't even feel like he might be racing down an escape chute on an airplane. No jet sounds, or hums, or buzzes, rattled in his ears."
February 5, 2013
Dianne Lynn Gardner just might be the next John White, and Ian’s Realm the new Anthropos. With pleasingly consistent writing, enjoyably flawed teen characters, and a world that blends real-world emotions with intriguing imagination, the Ian's Realm novels are perfectly tuned to a middle grade male audience and highly recommended.
Ian is a very ordinary, lonely young man. Motherless, with a fascinating but socially inept father, a love for computers and swords, and teachers who simply don’t understand him, he finds himself stuck doing a project with… a girl. Escaping to another world instead might be the best solution all around, except Ian’s really more down-to-earth than that and would rather just get on with the job. Unfortunately, Dad’s not so practical. And where Dad goes Ian's bound to follow.
Details are very pleasingly imagined in this middle grade fantasy, from the way Ian enters his strange new world, to the way the denizens view him, to the mysteries of song and prophecy. Poems with great rhythm and vivid lyrics fit the story perfectly, and create no sense of imposition when they're encountered--a rare treat.
I really enjoyed this novel--lost the point of view once in a while, but it wasn't a problem in a book that's smoothly written, intriguing, and built onto just the right level of detail. The characters are great. The dad’s a mystery. And the future must surely promise more books to come. Deception Peak is a novel complete in itself that stands alone perfectly. But there’s so much depth waiting to be filled (and prophecy to be fulfilled)
Disclosure: I was lucky enough to receive an ecopy as a gift.
Ian is a very ordinary, lonely young man. Motherless, with a fascinating but socially inept father, a love for computers and swords, and teachers who simply don’t understand him, he finds himself stuck doing a project with… a girl. Escaping to another world instead might be the best solution all around, except Ian’s really more down-to-earth than that and would rather just get on with the job. Unfortunately, Dad’s not so practical. And where Dad goes Ian's bound to follow.
Details are very pleasingly imagined in this middle grade fantasy, from the way Ian enters his strange new world, to the way the denizens view him, to the mysteries of song and prophecy. Poems with great rhythm and vivid lyrics fit the story perfectly, and create no sense of imposition when they're encountered--a rare treat.
I really enjoyed this novel--lost the point of view once in a while, but it wasn't a problem in a book that's smoothly written, intriguing, and built onto just the right level of detail. The characters are great. The dad’s a mystery. And the future must surely promise more books to come. Deception Peak is a novel complete in itself that stands alone perfectly. But there’s so much depth waiting to be filled (and prophecy to be fulfilled)
Disclosure: I was lucky enough to receive an ecopy as a gift.
June 10, 2014
Deception Peak is a fantasy about a boy named Ian and his father Alex who stumble into a magical realm via a portal opened from their computer. Once there, they learn of a world terrorized by a dragon and populated by a group of Dragon worshippers, and another group (Kaemperns) who hate the dragon and the other people too.
I realize this book is for very young YA (age 11 or so), but I am still judging it by its quality. And for that, I would say it is pretty mediocre. This is a classic fantasy where a boy gets thrown into another world and grows, etc. before coming home. This story follows that formula, but the execution is horrible. First off, there is a magic portal caused by their video game programming and it is controlled by a TV remote. I would have had a better time suspending my belief it was completely magic and did not involve a computer and a TV remote. Once in this world, Ian is the voice of reason, while Alex is a completely wreckless idiot. Of course Alex just spends his time telling Ian to not be such a wuss. I feel sorry for Ian here having a father like that. And then... Ian has to spend the entire book trying to rescue his father from his own stupidity.
Furthermore, Ian has little to no character growth here. He stumbles through the novel complaining and whining continuously until he meets the Kaemperns, who rescue him and his father while suffering great loss. Ultimately out of all of the characters in the book, they are all pretty despicable and I didn't care about a single one except the Kaemperns, who didn't show up until near the end (not counting the introduction). Also, his father definitely has no growth except his thinking that maybe it was a bad idea to come there in the first place (duh!)
There is also no romance in this story. Ian initially travels with his friend Abby, who is afraid will tell his story to everyone. Really? A friend would do that? And why would she tell someone a ridiculous story about a computer portal to another world? They would laugh her out of the place. But anyway, the author doesn't keep Abby for long before sending her out of the story and forgetting about her (aka useless character). Then he meets another girl, Brita, who would rather be with Ian's kidnapper and guard.
So overall, the entire book was Ian complaining and Alex being missing in action, while Ian stays with some horrible people, and then leaves and finds some better people to do everything for him. The End.
NOTE: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
I realize this book is for very young YA (age 11 or so), but I am still judging it by its quality. And for that, I would say it is pretty mediocre. This is a classic fantasy where a boy gets thrown into another world and grows, etc. before coming home. This story follows that formula, but the execution is horrible. First off, there is a magic portal caused by their video game programming and it is controlled by a TV remote. I would have had a better time suspending my belief it was completely magic and did not involve a computer and a TV remote. Once in this world, Ian is the voice of reason, while Alex is a completely wreckless idiot. Of course Alex just spends his time telling Ian to not be such a wuss. I feel sorry for Ian here having a father like that. And then... Ian has to spend the entire book trying to rescue his father from his own stupidity.
Furthermore, Ian has little to no character growth here. He stumbles through the novel complaining and whining continuously until he meets the Kaemperns, who rescue him and his father while suffering great loss. Ultimately out of all of the characters in the book, they are all pretty despicable and I didn't care about a single one except the Kaemperns, who didn't show up until near the end (not counting the introduction). Also, his father definitely has no growth except his thinking that maybe it was a bad idea to come there in the first place (duh!)
There is also no romance in this story. Ian initially travels with his friend Abby, who is afraid will tell his story to everyone. Really? A friend would do that? And why would she tell someone a ridiculous story about a computer portal to another world? They would laugh her out of the place. But anyway, the author doesn't keep Abby for long before sending her out of the story and forgetting about her (aka useless character). Then he meets another girl, Brita, who would rather be with Ian's kidnapper and guard.
So overall, the entire book was Ian complaining and Alex being missing in action, while Ian stays with some horrible people, and then leaves and finds some better people to do everything for him. The End.
NOTE: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2013
This novel was part of a monthly read in my group on Goodreads. A free copy was provided for my review.
This was a fun read. Deception Peak wasn’t your typical fantasy being that it had elements of science fiction involved. It is geared toward young adults, mostly male, but I think fantasy fans at any age would enjoy this.
The story starts out introducing us to Ian who is a typical teenage boy is living with his father Alex. Ian’s mother is deceased leaving Alex to raise his son on his own, which causes a lot of emotional issues for Ian. He has no self-confidence, and his sense of security is very lacking. Ian returns home from school one day to discover that the computer program he and his father had been working on had somehow magically come to life. Against his wishes Alex, Ian’s father convinces Ian that they should travel to this new world and explore. Eventually Ian agrees only because he doesn’t want to be left behind and with the use of a magical blue circle, and a remote, Ian and his father enter the computer and are transported to a whole new world. Things are fine at first and the pair make a few trips in and out of this strange realm, but that tragically changes. Father and son travel deeper into the realm than they have ever been and discover there are far worse things to be afraid of then wolves and bears. It is not until Alex disappears in the mountains that Ian finally makes contact with the inhabitants of the Realm. Now alone it is up to him to find his missing father and learn to survive with his new companions. It becomes the toughest trial of his life and the beginning of an adventure to find his dad and their way home.
I liked the characters in this book, all except Alex. I thought his lack of judgement and just all out cluelessness when it came to his son was very frustrating. He continually put Ian in harm’s way and didn’t seem to care much about Ian opinions. Ian on the other hand grew as a character. He started off very shy, whiny and recluse, but he grows up a lot and becomes the person he wants to be.
Deception Peak is the first in this series and I will be reading the next ones. The storyline is solid and I’m very interested to see what happens next. Great job Dianne.
This was a fun read. Deception Peak wasn’t your typical fantasy being that it had elements of science fiction involved. It is geared toward young adults, mostly male, but I think fantasy fans at any age would enjoy this.
The story starts out introducing us to Ian who is a typical teenage boy is living with his father Alex. Ian’s mother is deceased leaving Alex to raise his son on his own, which causes a lot of emotional issues for Ian. He has no self-confidence, and his sense of security is very lacking. Ian returns home from school one day to discover that the computer program he and his father had been working on had somehow magically come to life. Against his wishes Alex, Ian’s father convinces Ian that they should travel to this new world and explore. Eventually Ian agrees only because he doesn’t want to be left behind and with the use of a magical blue circle, and a remote, Ian and his father enter the computer and are transported to a whole new world. Things are fine at first and the pair make a few trips in and out of this strange realm, but that tragically changes. Father and son travel deeper into the realm than they have ever been and discover there are far worse things to be afraid of then wolves and bears. It is not until Alex disappears in the mountains that Ian finally makes contact with the inhabitants of the Realm. Now alone it is up to him to find his missing father and learn to survive with his new companions. It becomes the toughest trial of his life and the beginning of an adventure to find his dad and their way home.
I liked the characters in this book, all except Alex. I thought his lack of judgement and just all out cluelessness when it came to his son was very frustrating. He continually put Ian in harm’s way and didn’t seem to care much about Ian opinions. Ian on the other hand grew as a character. He started off very shy, whiny and recluse, but he grows up a lot and becomes the person he wants to be.
Deception Peak is the first in this series and I will be reading the next ones. The storyline is solid and I’m very interested to see what happens next. Great job Dianne.
October 2, 2012
Deception Peak
By: Dianne Lynn Gardner
Dragons, heroes, Grandmamma telling urban Legends to the little children gathered at her knee around the fire…..their looks of fright as she told them such things that scare them enough to cover their faces…..
A boy named Amleth’s, determined to find a way to not only find his father….but to rid his people and their town from the dragon that is a constant part of their everyday life, and the subject of the urban legends with which Grandmamma speaks of often as well as the whole town…..
I truly love the feel of this novel…. The adventurous flow that takes you through myths, legends, magic and otherworld feel…..
It took me back to my childhood and all the books like ( The Wizard of OZ, Alice through the Looking Glass, Peter Pan ) and many more….This novel will take you to far away enchanted places, where adventure, evil, good, and lots of overcoming adversity….. Fighting the good fight through an action packed journey…..
Author Dianne Lynn Gardner has in a most triumphant and excellently written novel, brought to life the enchantment of old…..with a wondrous air of adventure for generations to come…. A timeless Classic……
Gracias for allowing me to visit my childhood once again, sonrisa….. A novel to cherish for all ages till the end of time and beyond……
Reviewed By: De Ann “Native” Townes Jr. Author of (Peer Inside My Soul and See Me)
Note: I was given a copy for reviewing purposes only (WaAr)
By: Dianne Lynn Gardner
Dragons, heroes, Grandmamma telling urban Legends to the little children gathered at her knee around the fire…..their looks of fright as she told them such things that scare them enough to cover their faces…..
A boy named Amleth’s, determined to find a way to not only find his father….but to rid his people and their town from the dragon that is a constant part of their everyday life, and the subject of the urban legends with which Grandmamma speaks of often as well as the whole town…..
I truly love the feel of this novel…. The adventurous flow that takes you through myths, legends, magic and otherworld feel…..
It took me back to my childhood and all the books like ( The Wizard of OZ, Alice through the Looking Glass, Peter Pan ) and many more….This novel will take you to far away enchanted places, where adventure, evil, good, and lots of overcoming adversity….. Fighting the good fight through an action packed journey…..
Author Dianne Lynn Gardner has in a most triumphant and excellently written novel, brought to life the enchantment of old…..with a wondrous air of adventure for generations to come…. A timeless Classic……
Gracias for allowing me to visit my childhood once again, sonrisa….. A novel to cherish for all ages till the end of time and beyond……
Reviewed By: De Ann “Native” Townes Jr. Author of (Peer Inside My Soul and See Me)
Note: I was given a copy for reviewing purposes only (WaAr)
September 4, 2012
I received this book as a copy for review, but I would gladly pay for it as well. Deception Peak tells the story of Ian Wilson, a teenager who follows his dad into their computer into the Realm, an alternate universe of sorts. When Ian's dad is lost and Ian himself is captured, he must risk everything to save his dad and begin to find their way home.
The first thing I want to say is what a great storyteller Ms. Gardner is. I loved the imagery of the landscapes, of both Ian's world and the Realm. I loved the way the story flowed. Pretty much, I loved everything about this book.
Ian is a shy teenager at first with his dad as his only friend. I felt for him. Having very few friend growing up, I understood how he felt. Even today, I believe this book is a great book for teens everywhere, including boys. I can't wait for my children to be a couple years older so I can share this wonderful book with them.
Fantasy is not one of my favorite genres to read, but with books like Deception Peak, it's quickly moving up my top ten. The story is insightful, heartbreaking, familiar, adventurous... and it has a dragon! The Realm is very well crafted, from the landscape to the politics of the two tribes within. Even those who are not huge fantasy lovers will find something to love and relate to in this novel.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this trilogy!
The first thing I want to say is what a great storyteller Ms. Gardner is. I loved the imagery of the landscapes, of both Ian's world and the Realm. I loved the way the story flowed. Pretty much, I loved everything about this book.
Ian is a shy teenager at first with his dad as his only friend. I felt for him. Having very few friend growing up, I understood how he felt. Even today, I believe this book is a great book for teens everywhere, including boys. I can't wait for my children to be a couple years older so I can share this wonderful book with them.
Fantasy is not one of my favorite genres to read, but with books like Deception Peak, it's quickly moving up my top ten. The story is insightful, heartbreaking, familiar, adventurous... and it has a dragon! The Realm is very well crafted, from the landscape to the politics of the two tribes within. Even those who are not huge fantasy lovers will find something to love and relate to in this novel.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this trilogy!
January 12, 2015
This was an awesome work of science fiction and fantasy! Dianne is a superb writer and I was thouroughly engrossed in Ian's story! Her world building and imagery is wonderful and makes this story leap from the pages. I was definitely caught up and amazed with the realm Dianne had created. She writes with great description and fluidity. The story begins with an old tale that speaks of magic and dragons. It tells of a man that will come from through the window and rid the land of the dragon that plagues it. This sets the perfect stage for Ian's journey and before you know it, both Ian and his dad have been sucked through their computer screen and into a different realm! The premise for Deception Peak is original and exciting! I liked the fact that you are continuously transported back and forth between Ian's real life and the realm they have created. It keeps you on your toes and surging forward to find out what will happen next. I also enjoyed how it focuses on the father, son relationship between Ian and Alex. I am definitely glad this is going to be a trilogy! I look forward to reading the next adventure Dianne has in store for us! Ian's Realm is a perfect read for young adults, especially teen boys who enjoy fantasy and a bit of science fiction. This book comes highly recommended by me!
October 18, 2012
First off I want to say how much I enjoyed reading this book, it was given to me by First Rule Publicity for this blog tour and I loved reading it.
Deception Peak is a story full of great characters and incredible descriptions. I really love how this story flowed right off the pages and into the room I was reading it. It was if the characters were right in front of me playing out what Dianne Gardner had wrote. The characters are so realistic in this book that I felt as if I could really relate to them. It's not every day that I find a book that can play out in my head like a movie.
I also really loved the history in this book as well, the history of the land and the characters also made me feel like I really knew them. I love books that tell the back stories to characters and the land they are in. It helps to make the story more understandable and Deception Peak didn't let me down on this aspect of the story.
I did get lost in this story a few times and had to reread something a few times, but it didn't take away from this story.
I also really loved the artwork with this book, its fantastic and beautiful. I love books that have amazing artwork in them.
As a whole, Deception Peak is a fantastic story and a great start to this series.
Deception Peak is a story full of great characters and incredible descriptions. I really love how this story flowed right off the pages and into the room I was reading it. It was if the characters were right in front of me playing out what Dianne Gardner had wrote. The characters are so realistic in this book that I felt as if I could really relate to them. It's not every day that I find a book that can play out in my head like a movie.
I also really loved the history in this book as well, the history of the land and the characters also made me feel like I really knew them. I love books that tell the back stories to characters and the land they are in. It helps to make the story more understandable and Deception Peak didn't let me down on this aspect of the story.
I did get lost in this story a few times and had to reread something a few times, but it didn't take away from this story.
I also really loved the artwork with this book, its fantastic and beautiful. I love books that have amazing artwork in them.
As a whole, Deception Peak is a fantastic story and a great start to this series.
November 4, 2012
This was an exciting and fun adventure story aimed at a younger YA male audience. It was enjoyable as an adult female reader, but I can see how it is aimed for a different audience.
Ian is a relatable character. His attitude toward school and girls seemed realistic, and while the adventures he has are unusual, his reactions and emotions are not. They felt reasonable and realistic.
I was a bit disappointed in Alex, Ian’s father. He seemed so out to lunch when it came to anything related to reality. It was hard to like or respect him as a character because he was so distant and one dimensional.
The world is very well developed in both history and geography. The descriptions flow smoothly and give an easy to imagine picture of the settings. The history between the Meneks and the Kamperns was complex, yet relatively easy to understand. I felt a bit lost in a few places, but overall it was nicely explained.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read. It is definitely the start of a series, but was a complete story that served as a great introduction to the characters, setting, and overall series plot. I would recommend this to younger YA boy readers.
Ian is a relatable character. His attitude toward school and girls seemed realistic, and while the adventures he has are unusual, his reactions and emotions are not. They felt reasonable and realistic.
I was a bit disappointed in Alex, Ian’s father. He seemed so out to lunch when it came to anything related to reality. It was hard to like or respect him as a character because he was so distant and one dimensional.
The world is very well developed in both history and geography. The descriptions flow smoothly and give an easy to imagine picture of the settings. The history between the Meneks and the Kamperns was complex, yet relatively easy to understand. I felt a bit lost in a few places, but overall it was nicely explained.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read. It is definitely the start of a series, but was a complete story that served as a great introduction to the characters, setting, and overall series plot. I would recommend this to younger YA boy readers.
June 21, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I don’t remember why I bought it on Audible, since I did so a long time ago. I decided to listen to it now as part of a challenge on Habitica to fulfill the “Read a book by an author new to you” part of the challenge.
A 15 year old boy and his father stumble upon the entrance to a different world through their computer and there get separated and when this happens the boy realizes this world isn’t just benign but has some very dark and dangerous aspects to it.
I loved how the relationships between the characters grew and evolved.
I enjoyed the audio book quite a bit, the narrator is good, but reads perhaps a tad slow. I was able to listen to it at x1.5, which usually annoys me. The music used to illustrate the strangeness of the place is quite lovely, a type of music I really enjoy - women’s voices in harmony - being a singer myself. It was a bit weird so fast though. Unfortunately, I didn’t hear any credit for the music. I’ll have to see if I can find it on Audible, because it was really nice. I expect it is available for free somewhere.
A 15 year old boy and his father stumble upon the entrance to a different world through their computer and there get separated and when this happens the boy realizes this world isn’t just benign but has some very dark and dangerous aspects to it.
I loved how the relationships between the characters grew and evolved.
I enjoyed the audio book quite a bit, the narrator is good, but reads perhaps a tad slow. I was able to listen to it at x1.5, which usually annoys me. The music used to illustrate the strangeness of the place is quite lovely, a type of music I really enjoy - women’s voices in harmony - being a singer myself. It was a bit weird so fast though. Unfortunately, I didn’t hear any credit for the music. I’ll have to see if I can find it on Audible, because it was really nice. I expect it is available for free somewhere.
September 18, 2012
The author does a wonderful job of taking you to a world you do not want to leave. You can sense everything Ian does from smell to seeing. While trying to save his dad from the fantasy world Ian gets help from the villagers in doing so he over comes his fears to face a dragon. He also learns he is worth something as a son and as a friend.
A wonderful read for anyone one. My son wants to read this book. The illustrations are wonderful and the story takes you in. The message is helpful for kids who have a low self esteem. A wonderful read.
A wonderful read for anyone one. My son wants to read this book. The illustrations are wonderful and the story takes you in. The message is helpful for kids who have a low self esteem. A wonderful read.
January 26, 2013
Awesome Book! I loved the coming of age story of Ian. He travels through time in a port hole on his computer and you are whisked away into the magical world that transcends all space and time. A wonderful story about the development of courage and the real true meaning of friendship.
The visions the author paints for you, make you feel as if you can taste, smell, and feel every sight, sound and emotion. The pictures throughout the book were an unexpected breath of fresh air. A must read for young and old alike.
The visions the author paints for you, make you feel as if you can taste, smell, and feel every sight, sound and emotion. The pictures throughout the book were an unexpected breath of fresh air. A must read for young and old alike.
December 17, 2012
Deception Peak by Dianne Lynn Gardner was a great, quick read. I actually won it in a contest, received it a few days later and finished it the day I got it. The characters, especially Ian, are very relatable, especially through their flaws.
I am amazed at the talent of Dianne, not only with the writing but with the artwork of hers that is sprinkled throughout this book. It's seriously breathtaking. I wish those pictures were in color.
Overall a very nice read. I look forward to the rest of the series.
I am amazed at the talent of Dianne, not only with the writing but with the artwork of hers that is sprinkled throughout this book. It's seriously breathtaking. I wish those pictures were in color.
Overall a very nice read. I look forward to the rest of the series.
December 28, 2012
Today I finished reading Deception Peak, by Dianne Gardner. A very engaging story about a father and his son who enter a fantasy world through a computer-generated portal. The detail with which the world was painted, and the depth of the characters, drew me right into the story. For me, the book served as a great beginning to what should be an exciting series.
September 23, 2012
I was gifted a copy of this book by fbe author. Ian had no idea returning home from school that his computer would turn into a portal. This is a great read about a journey a father and son take together. Great quick read!
September 19, 2012
This is an amazing book, the way I felt like I was being moved in and out of different worlds or realms was awesome, had me not wanting to put the book down. So much discription and I felt like I was right there with them in this adventure..Can't wait for another one....Awesome JOB....
January 14, 2013
Read this book in one seating. Couldn't put the book down once I started reading this. WOW! Dianne Gardner uses exceptional craft in the writing of this book. She has woven many stories into this one with such wisdom. Can't wait for the next one.
August 22, 2012
You can read my full review here :) http://deceptionpeakreview.blogspot.c...
April 14, 2013
It's a wonderful story about how good and evil are lived out in our lives. Evil can capture us without our knowledge or consent and we can defend it's lifestyle, thinking we are good people.
November 21, 2012
Couldn't put it down... loved the characters. If I had young adults I would definitely get this book for them to read... this may be the next Harry Potter!!!
May 28, 2013
Very well written, hard to put down book! You don't have to be a young adult to enjoy this.
July 7, 2020
I remember really liking this book when I read it! It was entertaining and thrilling!
December 30, 2025
So bad. The writing was a struggle, the formatting of the book was a nightmare, and the story was unremarkable.
April 12, 2013
I received this book from the author to give an honest review.
This is a great book that I honestly would have my son read when he gets older and can understand the book. Being as he is six he would probably look at me crazy and wonder why there are no pictures of the dragon lol. That being said I would recommend this book to younger kids, as there is an adventure written within this book that they may enjoy.
I had a problem with Ian being rude to Abbi ( I may have miss spelled her name as my kindle needs to charge so I can not go back and check right quick) even when she did not do anything but be curious. He seemed to be extremely short and I found that kind of bothersome.
Ian is taken on a journey to find his father and ends up not only kidnapped but he ends up making friends something he has never really had before. Ian and his father end up making a portal which takes them to another world that leads not only to adventure but danger unlike they have ever known. Ian is ever so cautious while his father Alex is wanting to explore this new world they have enter into. Along the way Alex and Ian are separated and Ian wants nothing more than to go home, but first he must find his father.
There seem to be two different tribes that live in this world, one being the Meneks who are in constant fear of the master and his punishments and are pretty much being held captive. While the Kaemperns want nothing more than to free them and live in peace with their families together.
Will they ever live in peace? Will Ian truly understand what he must do?
You just have to read to find out.
I would have liked to have known if time stood still when Ian and his father Alex entered into the world. Other than that it was a great story filled with an adventure, a dragon, friendship.
This is a great book that I honestly would have my son read when he gets older and can understand the book. Being as he is six he would probably look at me crazy and wonder why there are no pictures of the dragon lol. That being said I would recommend this book to younger kids, as there is an adventure written within this book that they may enjoy.
I had a problem with Ian being rude to Abbi ( I may have miss spelled her name as my kindle needs to charge so I can not go back and check right quick) even when she did not do anything but be curious. He seemed to be extremely short and I found that kind of bothersome.
Ian is taken on a journey to find his father and ends up not only kidnapped but he ends up making friends something he has never really had before. Ian and his father end up making a portal which takes them to another world that leads not only to adventure but danger unlike they have ever known. Ian is ever so cautious while his father Alex is wanting to explore this new world they have enter into. Along the way Alex and Ian are separated and Ian wants nothing more than to go home, but first he must find his father.
There seem to be two different tribes that live in this world, one being the Meneks who are in constant fear of the master and his punishments and are pretty much being held captive. While the Kaemperns want nothing more than to free them and live in peace with their families together.
Will they ever live in peace? Will Ian truly understand what he must do?
You just have to read to find out.
I would have liked to have known if time stood still when Ian and his father Alex entered into the world. Other than that it was a great story filled with an adventure, a dragon, friendship.
February 18, 2013
Ever wonder what you would do if you could visit another Realm with just a click? What you think and what happens to Alex and Ian Wilson are undoubtedly two different scenarios.
Widower Alex Wilson is left to raise his brilliant son, Ian, alone. Concentrating on their work, Alex and Ian live in a world pretty much all their own. A world which is a mixture of medieval and digital, and the two collide while father and son are working on a new program. A program which enables them to visit another realm entirely. In this new place, they find danger, betrayal, friendship, and adventure.
Deception Peak was a delight to read. It was quite wonderful to see role reversals in Alex and Ian, where Alex is the adventure-hungry one and Ian is the ever-cautious one. However, their adventures in the new Realm are far from fun. Separated on the cliffs of Deception Peak, Ian must endure the cruel Meneks in hopes of finding a way to escape them and find his father. Will he be able to do it? Will the skills his father taught him be enough?
Filled with pristine imagery, believable characters, and frustrating interactions, it is not hard to follow this tale of heart-break and reunion. As mentioned before, I like the role reversal where the father is more adventure-prone and the son is more cautious, however his trepidation is understood given that he has already lost one parent. His following reactions to viewed intrusions on his relationship with his father are both understandable but annoying, which says that the portrayal was well done. And with everything that Ian endures, this reader will admit to tearing up a bit at the end when events unfold.
This first of a trilogy is truly recommended!
Widower Alex Wilson is left to raise his brilliant son, Ian, alone. Concentrating on their work, Alex and Ian live in a world pretty much all their own. A world which is a mixture of medieval and digital, and the two collide while father and son are working on a new program. A program which enables them to visit another realm entirely. In this new place, they find danger, betrayal, friendship, and adventure.
Deception Peak was a delight to read. It was quite wonderful to see role reversals in Alex and Ian, where Alex is the adventure-hungry one and Ian is the ever-cautious one. However, their adventures in the new Realm are far from fun. Separated on the cliffs of Deception Peak, Ian must endure the cruel Meneks in hopes of finding a way to escape them and find his father. Will he be able to do it? Will the skills his father taught him be enough?
Filled with pristine imagery, believable characters, and frustrating interactions, it is not hard to follow this tale of heart-break and reunion. As mentioned before, I like the role reversal where the father is more adventure-prone and the son is more cautious, however his trepidation is understood given that he has already lost one parent. His following reactions to viewed intrusions on his relationship with his father are both understandable but annoying, which says that the portrayal was well done. And with everything that Ian endures, this reader will admit to tearing up a bit at the end when events unfold.
This first of a trilogy is truly recommended!
April 4, 2014
Being a teen is tough – especially when you’re caught up in a world you know nothing about while your dad’s lost somewhere. The challenge of school and every day life will never be the same.
I’ve been excited to read Ian’s story since I first heard about his characters and “Deception Peak” did not disappoint. The story is adventurous and a pleasure to read, painting very real images with both words and beautiful visual art created by the author. I absolutely adore stories that pull you into a character and rumble around in their head with their highs and woes, like the internal struggles and growth Ian experiences. The story has consistent movement with plenty of action the reader gets to experience via Ian.
I enjoyed the contemporary elements and the ties to the real world throughout, making sure it’s never truly astray. Particularly touching is the father-son aspect which draws me in even more because it reminds me of my own family, where my father and brother share an interest in technology and working on projects together. It’s like being home.
The kindness shown by Amleth and others caught my heart, providing a lovely balance to other characters who aren’t as kind. I’m also a sucker for the varying emotions involved in the story, making the characters real like they should be in any great adventure. Sometimes the world is up and sometimes it’s down, but Ian keeps going. He has pluck and courage, yet there is certainly a lot of potential for him to grow! He faces several hefty lessons but his heart is in the right place, all of which is valuable to our youth who are reading and learning about the world and who they can be. I look forward to see how Ian progresses.
I’ve been excited to read Ian’s story since I first heard about his characters and “Deception Peak” did not disappoint. The story is adventurous and a pleasure to read, painting very real images with both words and beautiful visual art created by the author. I absolutely adore stories that pull you into a character and rumble around in their head with their highs and woes, like the internal struggles and growth Ian experiences. The story has consistent movement with plenty of action the reader gets to experience via Ian.
I enjoyed the contemporary elements and the ties to the real world throughout, making sure it’s never truly astray. Particularly touching is the father-son aspect which draws me in even more because it reminds me of my own family, where my father and brother share an interest in technology and working on projects together. It’s like being home.
The kindness shown by Amleth and others caught my heart, providing a lovely balance to other characters who aren’t as kind. I’m also a sucker for the varying emotions involved in the story, making the characters real like they should be in any great adventure. Sometimes the world is up and sometimes it’s down, but Ian keeps going. He has pluck and courage, yet there is certainly a lot of potential for him to grow! He faces several hefty lessons but his heart is in the right place, all of which is valuable to our youth who are reading and learning about the world and who they can be. I look forward to see how Ian progresses.
September 13, 2012
Violence/Romance: Both are present, but nothing is that graphic. Various characters have relationships with the opposite gender, some more intense than others--but nothing gets out of hand. There is a dragon which shoots fireballs. Characters get injured, occasionally severely. They also get knocked out on a few occasions. The dragon creates visions to lead people astray, and those scenes can be a little spooky (at least to me).
Spirituality: Ian stays with a group of people called the Meneks for a while, who worship the dragon and call it their master. If the dragon sets their town on fire, they determine whom it is mad at and in turn either keeps a close eye on them or banishes them. They need to fight to keep it content with them. Whereas, the Kaemperns (people rejected by the Meneks) believe in a god that typically takes the physical form of wind, and they also pray. There are prophesies in the book, as well as a voice that randomly appears and sings songs.
What I liked: I love how, in this book, the main relationship is that of Ian and his father. So often, positive, real, and admiral parent-child relationships are forgotten in books. Sure, they both have their issues, but they love each other despite them. There is forgiveness, and people try to regain trust. Serious efforts are made to maintain relationships, and characters are consistently persevering towards their goals. There is also a lot of inner meaning.
What I didn't like: ?
Rating: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Spirituality: Ian stays with a group of people called the Meneks for a while, who worship the dragon and call it their master. If the dragon sets their town on fire, they determine whom it is mad at and in turn either keeps a close eye on them or banishes them. They need to fight to keep it content with them. Whereas, the Kaemperns (people rejected by the Meneks) believe in a god that typically takes the physical form of wind, and they also pray. There are prophesies in the book, as well as a voice that randomly appears and sings songs.
What I liked: I love how, in this book, the main relationship is that of Ian and his father. So often, positive, real, and admiral parent-child relationships are forgotten in books. Sure, they both have their issues, but they love each other despite them. There is forgiveness, and people try to regain trust. Serious efforts are made to maintain relationships, and characters are consistently persevering towards their goals. There is also a lot of inner meaning.
What I didn't like: ?
Rating: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
October 22, 2012
3.5 stars
I think it was fate reading this book. I saw it twice around, and then it was available for tour, it was like screaming "read me!". I'm so happy i did!
You know you are about to read a good book, when the first words you are "The dragon"...okay kidding. Still, the books starts in an entirely exciting and mysterious dream and you know you won't put the book down if you don't finish it. It's a story every gamer would love. Who doesn't want to get into a game right? And that is a big reason, it's so easily to connect with the story. Personally, i imagined myself doing that some times so actually reading about it, felt real and got me "woo woo". Action, magic, adventure, a dragon are the main elements of the book and with Gardner's simple but captivating writing all comes to life.
If i had a problem that would be my connection with the character. All of them are likeable and interesting to follow for different reasons but you only get to really know Ian. Of course he is the hero of the story, and i kind his POV. He is clever, brave but sometimes he shock and mouth gets the best of him. Still, there are characters like his father Alex that i would love to read more about them and connect more with them too. Because no matter what, it seems like everyone has a part to play.
In the end it was a book i quite enjoyed. Gone in one read, and not only because it was a little small.
I think it was fate reading this book. I saw it twice around, and then it was available for tour, it was like screaming "read me!". I'm so happy i did!
You know you are about to read a good book, when the first words you are "The dragon"...okay kidding. Still, the books starts in an entirely exciting and mysterious dream and you know you won't put the book down if you don't finish it. It's a story every gamer would love. Who doesn't want to get into a game right? And that is a big reason, it's so easily to connect with the story. Personally, i imagined myself doing that some times so actually reading about it, felt real and got me "woo woo". Action, magic, adventure, a dragon are the main elements of the book and with Gardner's simple but captivating writing all comes to life.
If i had a problem that would be my connection with the character. All of them are likeable and interesting to follow for different reasons but you only get to really know Ian. Of course he is the hero of the story, and i kind his POV. He is clever, brave but sometimes he shock and mouth gets the best of him. Still, there are characters like his father Alex that i would love to read more about them and connect more with them too. Because no matter what, it seems like everyone has a part to play.
In the end it was a book i quite enjoyed. Gone in one read, and not only because it was a little small.
October 6, 2012
I won this book through First Reads, so first a thank you to the author for the opportunity to read her work. Deception Peak is a fantasy adventure story that introduces us to Ian Wilson and the alternate realm that he and his father discover within their computer game. The plot takes us through their discovery of the Realm, their initial explorations and ultimately to the mountain itself, Deception Peak. It is here that their paths split and Ian is forced to deal with his capture by the peoples who live at the base of the mountain and who worship the evil dragon that resides there. Ian's own character goes through a myriad of changes and as a reader we get to see him grow emotionally.
I was a little irritated by the protagonist at first. He was very whiny and seemed a little too reluctant towards being in this wonderful new world for a boy that seemed to enjoy the outdoors so much. In retrospect, most of his outbursts were forgotten as he did step up and become more of a hero in the story. Only minor editing errors were found and nothing that made the story skip.
Overall I did enjoy this beginning to what is to be a trilogy of adventures in Ian's Realm. I would recommend this book to middle-grade readers and up.
I was a little irritated by the protagonist at first. He was very whiny and seemed a little too reluctant towards being in this wonderful new world for a boy that seemed to enjoy the outdoors so much. In retrospect, most of his outbursts were forgotten as he did step up and become more of a hero in the story. Only minor editing errors were found and nothing that made the story skip.
Overall I did enjoy this beginning to what is to be a trilogy of adventures in Ian's Realm. I would recommend this book to middle-grade readers and up.
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