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Seventeen-year-old Enzi Montgomery had worn the stone around her neck for years. It was set in a cheap metal fitting, nothing fancy. But it made her wonder if she was crazy. Sometimes, when she had it on, she could disappear. She couldn’t make it happen. It just worked on its own. But always at convenient times, like when she’d needed to hide again from Caleb. Maybe she'd only been imagining it; insomnia could do that to you. The nightmares had never left since that day seven years ago and she'd never really learned to cope with them. But what if she wasn’t crazy? When she finds out that someone else has been searching for the stone—someone from another world—she must decide what to do with it. Should she get rid of it? Or find out what other secrets it holds?

354 pages, Paperback

Published November 3, 2017

28 people are currently reading
172 people want to read

About the author

Savannah J. Goins

5 books47 followers
Entrepreneurial speaker and fantasy novelist Savannah J. Goins teaches creatives how to value failure, enjoy the journey, and know when they've arrived. She uses her background in dragon wrangling as an exotic animal veterinary technician to encourage and inspire audiences with entertaining stories and unforgettable lessons.

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5 stars
24 (51%)
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19 (40%)
3 stars
4 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Morgan.
5 reviews
March 15, 2019
This book was fantastic from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down until I made it to the very end. This is a series I will be keeping up with in the future and an author I will be keeping an eye on to see what other future works she comes up with.

If you’re looking for a great YA fiction/ fantasy book to read, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. It hooks you in the story quickly and keeps you wanting to read more.
Profile Image for Sabrina.
645 reviews69 followers
Want to read
July 16, 2021
Yes! Another author who's taken the time to include a content warning at the start.
Profile Image for Stacy.
260 reviews4 followers
April 7, 2018
Really good!

You can't even say for a first time author; this book is comparable to any by a seasoned author as I've ever read. Richly woven story with intricate detail draws the reader in and won't let go until the story is done. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Cy Wyss.
Author 11 books176 followers
June 10, 2018
Enzi is a seventeen year old outcast, uncomfortable in her own body ever since she was attacked and grossly scarred at the age of ten. We never really find out what happened to her, but someone named Caleb was at fault and still walks around in her town a free man. Hopefully, we’ll never meet him outside of a morgue. Enzi is a likable character, in spite of being overweight and having no obvious special talents. I wish the author had given her something besides pure pluck, like making her good at math, or an amazing artist. In spite of this lack, I found myself rooting for Enzi from the get-go, always a sign of a good story.

And, the story is very good. It kept me interested. I was hardly able to put the book down once Enzi met Gaedyn the Gwythienian. I think everyone will be a little in love with Gaedyn, not just Enzi. This is a story that’s been told before, of a special stone and it’s “Possessor,” a guardian and an unwelcome human in a fantasy land. Still, Goins tells her version with obvious love for her characters and an unusual sensitivity to their predicaments. I especially liked that Enzi suffered a particular “female problem” during her quest. I’ve never seen that in any other book with a female hero, and it’s always on my mind because (spoken or not) every woman has to deal with it. That and Goins’s general attentiveness to detail really carry the book. I recommend The Gwythienian to anyone looking for a YA adventure that’s easy to get into and hard to put down.
Profile Image for M.A. Koontz.
Author 7 books41 followers
February 14, 2019
This was an engaging story of a teenage girl, Enzi, with a most unusual necklace that holds a rock, a gift from her mother. When strange events begin to occur, she discovers her family has secrets that lead her to another world in search of answers. Yet her past and present demons may prevent her from achieving her goal, as she winds through a trail of adventure, friendship, and discovery.

The Gwythienian was a definite page-turner for me, as I found myself rooting for Enzi and her new-found friend. Packed with adventure, action, and emotion, it left this reader wanting more.
Profile Image for Shelumiel Delos Santos.
130 reviews18 followers
January 26, 2018
I received a review copy from the author which in no way swayed my opinion about the work.

The first title in a planned trilogy, The Gwythienian is an enjoyable if a bit unpolished debut.

It is about a girl named Mackenzi “Enzi” Montgomery who, in the week she turns seventeen, learns not only that her mother has been hiding a huge secret from her but also that another realm exists and is subsequently abducted and taken to it. All for the stone in her necklace. There, she meets a dragon-like creature named Gaedyen who asks her to join him in a quest. Head reeling from her mother’s betrayal and the discovery that someone she thought dead is very much alive and maybe thrilled by the idea of escaping her boring world—along with a haunting childhood trauma—for a while, she agrees. But is she ready to take on such a task? The thing about books and reading is that each encounter is very subjective. And while I think The Gwythienian leaves much to be desired, I quite liked certain parts of it and I’d be remiss not to point out that it has potential and that it might be more fitting for other readers.

Possibly my favorite aspect of the book is the dynamics between the MCs, Enzi and Gaedyen, which is delightful. There are banters and the gap between the two—the gap born out of innate differences between two different creatures—is often amusing. I also appreciate the fact that the heroine is fat and has to go on this very physical journey. That on top of her insecurities on top of her traumatic past. Really, Enzi has every reason not to agree to this, and I’m not even talking about her companion being a sentient dragon whom she just met. She has very real and very immediate concerns: the trip is physically demanding and her body isn’t used to running and long hikes. And yet, she takes up the challenge and not once is the subject brushed off. And then, there’s—and this is not a spoiler; it’s hinted at in the synopsis and the first chapter of the book—implied sexual abuse. I thought it’s handled well. It’s this constant sort of presence and, even though the ordeal happened years before the story begins, it’s evident that Enzi is still processing it.

I must say, however, that I’m not well versed in fantasy novels but the world building seems pretty solid to me. The mythology of it is accessible and easy to follow and, despite its own set of vocabulary, I had no trouble with information overload. Although, I did find the pacing odd; the book almost opens in a conflict then nothing much happens until you’re suddenly moving from one significant scene to another, all crammed towards the last half. I believe there is a compelling way to introduce the plot line and establish your characters even if there are just pages after pages of dialogue between them. Instead, there are moments in the last third of the novel that felt strained.

If you’re looking for a quick, enjoyable read, check out Savannah J. Goins' The Gwythienian.
Profile Image for Alexandra Plath.
120 reviews21 followers
April 18, 2018
*Big thanks to Savannah J. Goins for this ARC in return for an honest review!*
**Mild Spoilers Ahead- Proceed with Caution**
I had a lot of mixed feelings about this book. After reading the first few chapters I wasn’t sure I was going to like it, but Goins’ easy going and fast pace writing style made it an enjoyable read. That being said, my biggest issue was that I found it difficult to connect to the characters. I could not stand Enzi. She was whiny and negative about herself and her life. The scenes with her bullies actually made me laugh out loud because they seemed so unrealistic and unmotivated. As the story progressed and we learned more about Enzi’s dark past and trauma (which I thought was handled really well), I grew to empathize with her more, but I still found it hard to want to root for her. Despite my feelings about our protagonist, I became invested in the mystery surrounding her powers and her father. The more we learned about the necklace and it’s connection with the other realms, the more interested I became. Goins did a great job of developing the realms and their histories, and making us excited to learn more about each one. The problem was that I became more interested in the other realms than I was with Odan Terridor and the Gwythienians, a race of talking dragons. While I found the Gwythienian lore and customs intriguing, I felt no connection to them as a whole. I’ve never had an affinity for dragons, and overcoming my traditional view of what a dragon is was difficult for me, and I think it hindered my ability to fully immerse myself into their world. I appreciated the slow build in Enzi and Gaedyen, a Gwythienian’s, relationship. I found their friendship really endearing and enjoyed their banter. As their journey with the stone progressed, you could definitely see the powerful affect they had on each other’s character arcs and growth. However; I did get a little weirded out when Enzi started to develop romantic feelings towards a dragon. Despite its flaws, I did enjoy the plot and mysteries of this story. After the huge cliff-hanger ending, I am invested and want to know what the future holds for Enzi, Gaedyen and the fate of the realms.
Profile Image for Michael Decamp.
Author 9 books29 followers
June 2, 2018
The Gwythienian is an excellent Middle Grade/YA fantasy novel. Ms Goins does a wonderful job creating an alternate world that rides alongside our own world and an equally fine job of recreating the dragon concept in a way that is uniquely noble, dangerous, and adventurous, yet also sort of innocent and blundering. I mean blundering in a good way. The two key characters, Enzi and Gaedyen, blunderingly interact as they become acquainted; they are fearful of rejection, hopeful of acceptance, and anxious to be loved.
In the story, Enzi, who is turning 17, has a stone that was found among her father’s belongings. Her mother had turned it into a necklace, which Enzi wears everywhere. She has discovered that it has given her new abilities that she neither understands nor controls. Soon, she is pulled into an adventure with a dragon that carries her away from her home into new realities. Still, she has a traumatic memory that troubles her sleep and affects her self-esteem. As she fights with her own self-doubt, she is maturing and growing stronger. The question is whether she can develop fast enough to avoid the fate wished upon her by those who want her stone.
The book is a great read for a young teen, and would make a safe gift as it is devoid of obscenities and gratuitous sensuality. It is exciting and captivating. I will eagerly await the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Julia.
Author 1 book16 followers
February 10, 2019
The Gwythienian is a portal fantasy with rich world building, interesting characters, and a compelling plot. The protagonist, Enzi, is in many ways an average 17-year old girl. She has self-esteem and body image issues, is the constant target of mean girls at school, and her home life leaves a lot to be desired. But there are a few things about Enzi that sets her apart from most girls her age, like the trauma she experienced when she was younger, which has left her both physically and emotionally scarred. And then there's the thing with her father, and the stone that belonged to him, which she wears on a chain around her neck and which gives her unusual powers. With everything going on in her life, it's no surprise she takes the opportunity to flee to another world, but she's faced with challenges she couldn't have imagined. Luckily, her guide on this journey is Gaedyn, essentially a talking dragon called a Gwythienian, who lives in the realm of Odan Terridor. I wasn't sure what to expect from this friendship, but it was funny, sweet, and strangely believable. It was fascinating to watch each of their arcs play out, mutually and individually. I'm looking forward to the next book!
Profile Image for A.
592 reviews4 followers
Read
May 7, 2020
Early-teens!me would've eaten this up with a spoon, but considerably-older!me still had a pretty fun time in this adventure quest + magic stones + ~girl with a mysterious heritage~ + dragons story.

Very easy to read, with a sympathetic main character who's suffered a dark backstory (the details of what happened are never outright stated, but you can read between the lines; I thought her PTSD and arc of slowly processing her past trauma was handled well).

A+ snarky dragon companion.

Profile Image for Lauren.
430 reviews15 followers
July 9, 2021
This YA novel is complete escapism, from its fantasy realms filled with mystical creatures, to its adventurous journeys and gemstone magic. If you've ever dreamed of invisibility powers, saving the world or flying above the clouds on the back of a dragon, this one is for you.

I love the protagonist, Enzi – she's brilliantly relatable in her reactions to impossible things, and witty in her conversations. She's also a survivor of sexual abuse, and the book deals with the after-affects of trauma subtly and sensitively. It's inspiring to see her develop her bravery and confidence, and I can't wait for more character development in the next two books!

I've also got a huge soft spot for the friendly dragon, Gaedyen (and the names of characters and places in this book are all just as awesome as his is!). His backstory is so complex and secretive that I was eager to see Enzi break down his walls. The friendship between them is completely heartwarming, filled with just enough mystery to keep me hooked.

All in all, this is a great start to what I'm sure will be a fantastic series. Perfect for fantasy and YA lovers, and anyone who wants something just a little bit different.
Profile Image for Holly Davis.
Author 2 books46 followers
December 15, 2017
3.75/5! I enjoyed reading The Gwythienian and thought Savannah had really strong writing and prose. First person really suited this story and allowed me to become immersed in the world with Enzi's thoughts. I loved the flashback scenes scattered throughout the story which told of Enzi's past and helped me empathize with her. I also enjoyed the developing relationship between her and Gaedyan. There were times when I was confused because of all the new (to me) terminology and had to flip back to the vocabulary guide to remember what the term meant and how to pronounce it, but thankfully there was one I could refer to! I also became overwhelmed at times with all of the information thrown at me. However, I still enjoyed the story, plus we're left with a cliffhanger ending, like any good evil author should. ;)
Profile Image for Kristin.
167 reviews11 followers
September 23, 2019
I don’t know that I’ve ever read a book that featured dragons before this one, but it was a great intro to it! Enzi and Gaedyen are a really fun pair to watch as they journey together throughout the book. Their characters have a lot of depth and I loved the way you cake to know more about them as their travels progressed and they better got to know each other. The premise of the book kept me engaged with the lost stones, Possessors, an outcast dragon and an unlikely human girl... I’m eager to find out the answers to all the mysteries brought up along the way... which I’ll have to read the next book to find! The end of the book definitely had me up late, just to finish one... more... chapter...! And with the action right up to the very last paragraph, I’ll be waiting on pins and needles for book two’s arrival!
Profile Image for Sara.
156 reviews17 followers
June 23, 2020
Envolvente do princípio ao fim!!!

The Gwythienian é um livro de fantasia sobre Enzi, uma jovem solitária, de 17 anos, que lida com traumas pessoais enquanto tenta descobrir o mistério por trás de um colar, única recordação deixada pelo pai, e que permite-lhe desaparecer, o que a faz pensar que está a ficar louca. A uma certa altura, Enzi descobre que há mais alguém interessado no colar e é aí que começa a aventura. Quando ela conhece Gaedyen, o dragão, é como se o livro ganhasse vida e prendeu-me a atenção de tal forma, que simplesmente não consegui parar de ler ( nem digo a que horas fui dormir 🙄🙄😁😁)
É um livro fantástico, de aventura, portais no tempo, dragões ... Enfim adorei!! O final deixa-nos completamente em suspense e na ansiedade do próximo livro!! Parabéns à autora que conseguiu deixar-me completamente vidrada!! ☺️☺️💖💖
Author 15 books62 followers
September 4, 2019
The Gwythienian is a great new fantasy series that hooked me from page one. I was drawn in by the characters (human and non-human), which is what I'm always drawn to regardless of plot.
Enzi has a lot on her plate, what with a dead father, nightmares, bullying, and a weird ability to disappear. Gaedyen is also carrying a heavy load-- mostly complex family relations/heritage and being isolated. While I think I've discovered one mystery in the series, there's plenty more to keep me guessing. (It'll be interesting to find out if I'm right. :-P )
I can't wait to see what new adventures these characters experience!
1 review
Read
September 2, 2019
This sweetly told story is a page turner and full of surprises ... I want to tell you more, but I'm afraid I'll spoil it for future readers! I WILL tell you I found my favorite magical land and a magical creature I wish to be! Young or old, read this lovely story! It will remind you to imagine and dream!
1 review
July 9, 2018
Easy read, nice character development, interesting story line. Gives you characters with personal problems without forcing the problems on the reader. Makes you want to learn more about the characters' pasts and see if they can overcome or be pulled down by them.
Profile Image for Alicia.
52 reviews12 followers
May 2, 2018
I enjoyed this book! I’m interested to see where the next installment takes us.
The character development is strong and keeps the reader invested in the Possessor.
I want to see more development of the villain in book two because I love a villain backstory!

Read this if you like dragons, adventures and strong female leads!
Profile Image for Kelly Fields.
12 reviews
July 16, 2018
It started slow, but for a first time writer she really picked up the pace after a few chapters. A very good story, one with adventure, love, and suspense.
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 13 books88 followers
August 12, 2019
A fun adventure about an average girl who discovers magic and dragons! Prepare to be swept away into a fantasy world. And an ending that you won't forget!
Profile Image for Mallory.
7 reviews
January 10, 2024
I LOVED these books! I enjoyed the author's writing style and it was an adventure I needed to know how it ended!!
Profile Image for Allisha Blanco.
39 reviews3 followers
June 2, 2024
Really loved this story. A story with such fun characters but also deep story lines.
Profile Image for T.A. Beasley.
Author 7 books117 followers
October 16, 2019
The Gwythienian is a portal fantasy about a young girl dealing with personal issues while trying to find out about the mystery behind her necklace.

Enzi is a loner who hides in plain sight and tries to stay away from the guy who harmed her. She is also trying to find out what happened to her dad because she knows there is something her mother isn’t telling her. She believes it has something to do with the necklace she wears. Then Enzi finds out there is someone else looking for the necklace and this is when the adventure begins.

It isn’t clear in this first book on what happened to Enzi seven years ago, but she’s a believable character. It was easy to invest in her and root for her to get the answers she’s seeking. When she meets Gaedyn, it’s like the book comes alive and their interactions with each other kept me turning the pages. His character fascinates me.

Goin’s descriptions throughout the book helped me visualize the places they were going and what was happening to them. To me Enzi and Gaedyn make a good team. Overall this book took me on an adventure from the places, learning the characters and the action. I recommend this book to readers of portal stories and adventure.
Profile Image for Heather Venkat.
72 reviews
September 21, 2019
This was a solid debut by Savannah J. Goins! An intricate world, characters you can get emotionally attached to, and a fantasy story to invest in. This book does all of that while leaving you ready for more!
Profile Image for Stephanie Mirro.
Author 34 books243 followers
July 25, 2021
What a fantastic addition to the YA portal fantasy world! Enzi is such a realistic, relatable character who has a pretty haunting past. I can't wait to read the sequel to find out what happens next!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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