The Precocious Boy

by Jeffery J Mattson

Stuck in the quaint storybook village of Saint Galdramour for the summer, with his grandmother and her shop of dusty antiques, Jack is homesick and longing for friends until he meets an enthusiastic boy named Finn. Together they investigate the mysterious disappearance of his grandfather Henry, a renowned fairy hunter who after a decade gone suddenly appears only to vanish again. His grandmother fears witches are to blame. While searching for clues Jack has an unusual encounter in the woods and is bestowed with the title of King of the Fairies, however unbeknownst to him, the honour comes with a great many strings attached. The Grimalkins, a magical race of cats, introduce Jack to the dark and troubled world of fairies, a ruined kingdom where magic is fading and it isn’t clear who is to blame. For centuries they have protected humans from the creatures that scurry beneath us, from the perils that linger in the shadows and from forces beyond our perception. However it soon becomes evident that the Grimalkins may have grown too pampered and lazy and aren’t up to the challenge of protecting the world from witches anymore. The devious gloomfairies of the Unhallowed Court, the vengeful forest spirits of the Undergloom, and the great and powerful Oberon himself, all seek to keep Jack from his goal. With time running out Jack must find his grandfather in the land of the fairies before the midsummer solstice is upon them and the witches descend upon the village.

UK English version

294 pages, Paperback

Published August 7, 2023

Reviews

[Farah G · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Jack reluctantly arrives to spend the summer with his grandmother, there isn't much to be excited about in the village where she lives, or her rundown antiques shop.

Nor is he happy about the fact that his grandfather has disappeared under mysterious circumstances, his grandmother blaming it on witches!

So Jack is relieved when he finally finds a friend of his own age in a boy named Finn. The fact that the latter is willing to help him figure out what actually happened to his grandfather is an additional bonus.

But neither of the boys has any idea just what a hornets nest they have stepped into. Very soon they are caught up in a perilous adventure involving fairies, witches, and various other magical creatures - none of whom they really know how to handle! How can the duo possibly hope to emerge unscathed from this adventure?

The characters of Jack and Finn are well drawn, and this story sees quite a bit of action. It isn't for everyone, but the narrative would probably best fit readers who are looking for a fantasy adventure featuring a whole slew of magical beings.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review

[Abigail L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This captivating first installment in the Fablestone Series, weaves an enchanting tapestry of adventure, magic, and friendship. Set in the idyllic village of Saint Galdramour, the story introduces us to Jack, a young boy whose summer takes an unexpected turn when he befriends Finn and becomes entangled in the mystery of his grandfather's disappearance. Mattson's storytelling prowess shines as he paints a vivid world filled with magical creatures and a realm on the brink of collapse.

The novel effortlessly draws readers into Jack's journey, from his initial homesickness to his unexpected encounter with the world of fairies. The intricate web of alliances, rivalries, and treacherous intentions keeps the pages turning, and Jack's transformation from a curious boy to a heroic figure is skillfully portrayed. Mattson's imaginative prose and intricate world-building create an immersive experience that will captivate readers of all ages

[Ben Buckingham · Rating 4 out of 5]

The best descriptor I can think of for this book is charming. Jack's adventures of fairies and witches alongside his quirky grandmother and his clever cat pester were a delight to read.

When he is sent to stay with his grandmother for the summer in her small village in France, Jack gets significantly more than he bargained for when he realizes that fairies and fae are real, and that witches have returned to try and destroy it.

I think Jeffery Mattson has done a remarkable job with the first installment of this series. His world is inventive and fun, filled with surprises and a bright array of characters. And lots of cats. I am excited to see where Jack's adventures continue to take us.

I will say the book does skew slightly younger on the YA scale than I had expected for a 14 year old protagonist, but Jack is a delight, and this book was a whole lot of fun.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, I was hooked by the exciting world of Saint Galdramour and the mysteries that unfold. Imagine stumbling upon a hidden realm of fairies, magical cats, and otherworldly beings – that's exactly what happens to Jack, our brave and curious hero.

This book had me turning pages late into the night, as I followed Jack's quest to find his missing grandfather and uncover the secrets of the fairy world. The characters are so vividly crafted, and I couldn't help but root for Jack as he faced challenges from all sides – witches, forest spirits, and even a mischievous cat race. Mattson's writing style is engaging and imaginative, making every twist and turn feel like a new discovery.

[Amey Alejo · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I didn't enjoy this story myself, this series seems perfect for young teens looking for a fantasy story that has relatable elements to it

Although some of the side characters are pretty one note, the main characters are well thought out and are full of life

(Although it could do with being looked through again for spelling mistakes and wording errors since there are a few spots where sentences seem to just be missing words that end up making it not make sense)