What do you think?
Rate this book
Daearen Realms #1
Meanmna
Seventeen-year-old Sarette has always thought of her life as average, even a bit boring. She does well in school, has a loving mother and a loyal best friend, Mathew. Of course, she has her problems as well—cold Michigan winters, a long-lost father she knows nothing about, and the lack of a boyfriend. She also has the vague sensation that she is being watched by some unseen entity, but figures that means she’s average and crazy.
Nothing could be further from the truth...
Nothing could be further from the truth...
181 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2014
143 people want to read
About the author
Emmy Gatrell
25 books612 followersEmmy is a writer, stay-at-home mom, and barbell babe. She grew up in Metro-Detroit and went to college Adrian, Michigan. After spending more than a decade in Georgia with her husband, two kids, and dogs, she decided it was still too cold for her and now splits her time between the US and Costa Rica. She loves to read, write, Zumba, travel, and spend time with her family. Emmy's love of her roots and of travel comes out in her writing as she creates a new universe in the Daearen Realms.
Emmy has published the first three books of six in the Daearen Realm series; Meanmna, Bienn-Theine, and Eitlean. Her first book, Meanmna: Book One of the Daearen Realms ranked sixth on Amazon's Best Sellers Teen & Young Adult Coming of Age Fantasy eBooks.
Emmy's new series the Lupinski Clan, Romantic Comedies with Happy Endings, releases November 2016 with Fate is a Mated Bitch.
Emmy has published the first three books of six in the Daearen Realm series; Meanmna, Bienn-Theine, and Eitlean. Her first book, Meanmna: Book One of the Daearen Realms ranked sixth on Amazon's Best Sellers Teen & Young Adult Coming of Age Fantasy eBooks.
Emmy's new series the Lupinski Clan, Romantic Comedies with Happy Endings, releases November 2016 with Fate is a Mated Bitch.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 31, 2014
I have fallen in love with this world. I wish I could have read it faster, not because I wanted it to end, but because I was so caught up in it.
Sarette is not the type of female character which would usually appeal to me. She is affectionate, loving and sincere and sometimes that can come across as cheesy or forced but Emmy Gatrell made me believe in her goodness.
The magic in this book,really does transport you literally to another world, I did not want to leave. Sarette and Elwins love story, though this seemed more of a side story to me, keeps the reader engaged, wondering what will happen to the young lovers. Whilst the main storyline of Sarette and her new world infuses wonder and excitement.
I have already downloaded book two and will definitely be buying the paperback copies of both. Emmy Gatrell is definitely an author to watch.
Sarette is not the type of female character which would usually appeal to me. She is affectionate, loving and sincere and sometimes that can come across as cheesy or forced but Emmy Gatrell made me believe in her goodness.
The magic in this book,really does transport you literally to another world, I did not want to leave. Sarette and Elwins love story, though this seemed more of a side story to me, keeps the reader engaged, wondering what will happen to the young lovers. Whilst the main storyline of Sarette and her new world infuses wonder and excitement.
I have already downloaded book two and will definitely be buying the paperback copies of both. Emmy Gatrell is definitely an author to watch.
July 3, 2016
Great introduction to a new to me author! Sarette was a normal teenager who hung out with her best friend until one day when buying a candle her world changed. She found out she's not who she thought, her best friend Mathew and his mom weren't who she thought. And the adventure begins taking her to where she now belongs. Along the way she meets both friends and foes and goes through things she never could have imagined.
WOW Just WOW! I started the book early this afternoon and finished it not to long ago, I just couldn't put it down (it helped that the kids were occupied and let me read). Loved getting to know Sarette and everyone and reading about dragonflies changing into people, well fey, was fun to read. I can't wait to find out what happens next. And just sayin I wanna a horse that can talk to me.
WOW Just WOW! I started the book early this afternoon and finished it not to long ago, I just couldn't put it down (it helped that the kids were occupied and let me read). Loved getting to know Sarette and everyone and reading about dragonflies changing into people, well fey, was fun to read. I can't wait to find out what happens next. And just sayin I wanna a horse that can talk to me.
July 28, 2016
Well written, vividly graphic, heart grasping, intoxicating and inviting...It's prodigious, fun, yet forbidden and the diversity keeps you on your toes! A must read! - Nook Books and More Blog
This world puts you on such an emotional roller coaster and bleeds into your heart. Be prepared to experience all emotions. You will not want to put this book down.
This series puts an amazing twist on such a diversity in the paranormal world. This journey has brought characters together that needed each other in so many more ways than even you would expect. There were promises made and broken, love fulfilled and betrayed. We see our heroine embarks on a journey that is totally different then her life now. She soon learns her life is nothing of what she has known and embarks on an abyss of a journey.
But wait the story doesn't stop there! It seems, no matter which direction the these characters seem to turn, someone or something is trying to come between them. Though sometimes they put it on themselves, the journey is epic as it continues to play out! The twist and turns are phenomenal. I couldn't put it down!
Questions are answered, and there are sweet tender moments that have you smiling and thinking, "It's about time!" It's still dark and fantastic journey of the characters we haven't been introduced to yet. Some of the character we thought could be trusted have turned leaving devastation in their wake.
Emmy Gatrell’s MEANMNA stands out. The story of Sarette, a seemingly average teen who is really a princess. She learns of her true heritage and then is plummeted into a new world that she never knew existed. She is about to fulfill an ancient destiny, and sucks you into to that world resonating in your heart. The characters have appeal and they are fun, lovable and believable characters, so much so you feel you are their with them.
Overall, the story has lots of twists and turns with plenty of nice surprises. It has well written sexual tension that both maintained integrity for the story but was also age appropriate. The flow of the book bleeds nicely off the page making it easier to follow the journey and not get lost in the book or bored. There's also a significant amount of action, making it a very compelling read! Great job Ms. Gatrell!
July 19, 2015
This book is so very entertaining and a wonderful world called Meanmna, that we take a journey to in this book. This book is so very creative, to create so many different feys in this world and connect them with the elements.
Sarette and her Mom has always lived close to her best friend Mathew and his Mom, since their Mothers meet while in hospital bring Sarette and Mathew into the world on the same day. Their 18th birthday is about week away when this book starts. They have no idea how much their lives will change.
Elwin has come to train and take Sarette to Meanmna to be the Queen. Elwin is suppose to train and protect her at all cost. But, his is learning that Sarette might cost him his heart. Elwin is only suppose to protect her, not fall in love a long the way.
Sarette has so much to taken and learn before she sees her kingdom. Sarette is such a great character, she maybe young, though she is smart and catches on fast. I enjoy how she can laugh at herself, and she knows exactly what it is she wants. She has fallen for Elwin, and determined that he is who she picks to be her mate.
Mathew finds out that Sarette is his cousin, and he is royal too. Mathew is fire fey. And he to has to leave, cause the realm needs both of them.
This book was so great, I really enjoyed all the different feys, and the detailed descriptions you can picture the places through this book as you read. I highly recommend to all paranormal romance readers. This book you do not want to miss. I look forward to Emmy Gatrell's next book in this series. AWESOME BOOK!!
Sarette and her Mom has always lived close to her best friend Mathew and his Mom, since their Mothers meet while in hospital bring Sarette and Mathew into the world on the same day. Their 18th birthday is about week away when this book starts. They have no idea how much their lives will change.
Elwin has come to train and take Sarette to Meanmna to be the Queen. Elwin is suppose to train and protect her at all cost. But, his is learning that Sarette might cost him his heart. Elwin is only suppose to protect her, not fall in love a long the way.
Sarette has so much to taken and learn before she sees her kingdom. Sarette is such a great character, she maybe young, though she is smart and catches on fast. I enjoy how she can laugh at herself, and she knows exactly what it is she wants. She has fallen for Elwin, and determined that he is who she picks to be her mate.
Mathew finds out that Sarette is his cousin, and he is royal too. Mathew is fire fey. And he to has to leave, cause the realm needs both of them.
This book was so great, I really enjoyed all the different feys, and the detailed descriptions you can picture the places through this book as you read. I highly recommend to all paranormal romance readers. This book you do not want to miss. I look forward to Emmy Gatrell's next book in this series. AWESOME BOOK!!
September 18, 2017
A fantastical beginning to a new paranormal series! Enter this fey world with sassy Sarette, the unexpected fey princess, and her loving guardian Elwin. This story is filled with magical imagery and fun characters with unexpected twists to keep you reading until the end.
January 28, 2015
New to Fantasy, Now I’m Hooked!
I like fantasy movies, but when I choose a book it’s never in the Y.A. Fantasy genre. The reason I opened it was because I was told that it referenced my home town of Adrian, Michigan. I’m pleased to say that what reticence I brought to opening the book quickly dissipated!
There are many familiar plot points that are staples for fantasy, but there is also a lot of freshness that keeps the reader deeply engaged. I’m ashamed to say how rare it is that I make my way to the conclusion of a book. It’s no small compliment for me to say that Ms. Gatrell’s story craft had me so riveted that I finished it in less than a day’s time!
The first person protagonist—Sarette—is a strong female protagonist. At the onset, I found her far more mature than the average 17 year old with interests and conversational qualities more akin to someone college age. Once the story got into full gear, her maturity level seemed both reasonable and believable.
I really enjoyed the use of Adrian, Michigan as a backdrop. I found the use of real landmarks, buildings, people and terrain gave a high quality dimension to the story. I would be willing to bet that those details would give a depth of believability to readers completely unfamiliar with the small city.
It’s challenging to find much to put in the “cons” column. I don’t trust reviews that are 100% rave, and am trying desperately to find a few detractions. Unfortunately for me, I can only come up with a few weak ones. 1. The two main characters seem to shower every place they go. They don’t always eat, but you can rest assured that they’re going to get clean. 2. I couldn't decide if I found the comparison to places in Daearen—the world of the fey—to 21st century US culture useful or distracting. The jury’s out.
Overall, the story has lots of twists and turns with plenty of nice surprises. It has well written sexual tension that both maintained integrity for the story but was also age appropriate for the target readership. There’s also a significant amount of action, making it a very compelling read!I’m excited to begin Book 2 immediately!
I like fantasy movies, but when I choose a book it’s never in the Y.A. Fantasy genre. The reason I opened it was because I was told that it referenced my home town of Adrian, Michigan. I’m pleased to say that what reticence I brought to opening the book quickly dissipated!
There are many familiar plot points that are staples for fantasy, but there is also a lot of freshness that keeps the reader deeply engaged. I’m ashamed to say how rare it is that I make my way to the conclusion of a book. It’s no small compliment for me to say that Ms. Gatrell’s story craft had me so riveted that I finished it in less than a day’s time!
The first person protagonist—Sarette—is a strong female protagonist. At the onset, I found her far more mature than the average 17 year old with interests and conversational qualities more akin to someone college age. Once the story got into full gear, her maturity level seemed both reasonable and believable.
I really enjoyed the use of Adrian, Michigan as a backdrop. I found the use of real landmarks, buildings, people and terrain gave a high quality dimension to the story. I would be willing to bet that those details would give a depth of believability to readers completely unfamiliar with the small city.
It’s challenging to find much to put in the “cons” column. I don’t trust reviews that are 100% rave, and am trying desperately to find a few detractions. Unfortunately for me, I can only come up with a few weak ones. 1. The two main characters seem to shower every place they go. They don’t always eat, but you can rest assured that they’re going to get clean. 2. I couldn't decide if I found the comparison to places in Daearen—the world of the fey—to 21st century US culture useful or distracting. The jury’s out.
Overall, the story has lots of twists and turns with plenty of nice surprises. It has well written sexual tension that both maintained integrity for the story but was also age appropriate for the target readership. There’s also a significant amount of action, making it a very compelling read!I’m excited to begin Book 2 immediately!
June 27, 2016
Meanmna: Book One of the Daearen Realms by Emmy Gatrell High 5 Stars
This is the first book I have read from this author and let me tell you I was Shocked. I felt like I was in the book. Ok let me explain. The book starts out centered around a town in Michigan, Adrian to be exact and I am from Adrian, Mi. Omg talk about a shocker. And all of the places in the book I have been to. AND...it even mentioned the sisters I worked for. SWEET. I think I drove my husband nuts cause I keep reading the book aloud to him at times, lol. I mean wow what are the chances that I get to read a book from where I'm from. Sigh, just wish I could go to the Fey world.
Any YA/PNR fan will absolutely LOVE THIS BOOK. The story flows so nicely and the characters are awesome. Loved Sarette's attitude about things. hehe. And Elwin, well he is just yummy.
Come meet them all, Sarette, Elwin, Mathew, Paige, Lily and a whole slew of other intriguing characters.
It's funny, humble, exciting, dangerous and swoon worthy. They will embark on a journey when Sarette is 17 to meet her father in another realm, which she had no idea of. Elwin is her guide and protector on this journey since she is actually the future Spirit Fey Queen.
I can't say enough good things about this book. This is just a Great go to book anytime.
I want to thank Emmy for asking if I would be interested in reading this book. I will keep a close eye on your writings that is for sure. I can not wait for this to come out in paperback..
Reviewer for Nook Books and More
This is the first book I have read from this author and let me tell you I was Shocked. I felt like I was in the book. Ok let me explain. The book starts out centered around a town in Michigan, Adrian to be exact and I am from Adrian, Mi. Omg talk about a shocker. And all of the places in the book I have been to. AND...it even mentioned the sisters I worked for. SWEET. I think I drove my husband nuts cause I keep reading the book aloud to him at times, lol. I mean wow what are the chances that I get to read a book from where I'm from. Sigh, just wish I could go to the Fey world.
Any YA/PNR fan will absolutely LOVE THIS BOOK. The story flows so nicely and the characters are awesome. Loved Sarette's attitude about things. hehe. And Elwin, well he is just yummy.
Come meet them all, Sarette, Elwin, Mathew, Paige, Lily and a whole slew of other intriguing characters.
It's funny, humble, exciting, dangerous and swoon worthy. They will embark on a journey when Sarette is 17 to meet her father in another realm, which she had no idea of. Elwin is her guide and protector on this journey since she is actually the future Spirit Fey Queen.
I can't say enough good things about this book. This is just a Great go to book anytime.
I want to thank Emmy for asking if I would be interested in reading this book. I will keep a close eye on your writings that is for sure. I can not wait for this to come out in paperback..
Reviewer for Nook Books and More
July 21, 2016
I'm in love!! This is my first book that I've read from Emmy Gatrell and I thank my lucky stars that I did. This book flows very well and it's not overly descriptive in any way, it's just perfect. I love who Sarrette is and the way she is when we first meet her lol. And Elwin, whew!! That's all I'll say as you'll have to read this amazing book to find out more about him haha. This book was full of action, love, laughs, sadness and wtf moments that leave you wanting more. This is a series so book 1 does end in a cliffhanger but it's so worth it. I felt like I was in this book and I was Sarrette in her crazy new life of the Fey world. If you have not read this book what are you waiting for?! Go now 1-click it. Great job Emmy Gatrell now onto book 2.
February 25, 2014
The imagery in this debut novel is compelling, gently pulling readers into a world unlike any described in other fantasy/paranormal books. While this genre has grown in popularity this book bucks trends, removing itself from formulaic, predictable story arcs choosing to create memorable characters and story-lines instead. I was so engrossed in this novel I finished it in two days, wishing that the author had finished the next installment so I could continue my journey in the land she had created.
January 31, 2014
I LOVED this book!!! It is a wonderful adventure "fantasy" that kept me on the edge of my seat! I couldn't put the book down. This book is considered "young adult".....and it is, but even if you are an "older" adult, you will find it a great read. The characters are fascinating and the adventures are richly detailed. You feel you are running for your life along with Sarette & Elwin. My heart was actually beating fast at the end of this book. Great job for a first time author.
April 26, 2014
I love YA and this book was a joy to read. While I don't normally go for fantasy, the world-building was excellent and drew me in immediately. I read the entire thing over a weekend and can't wait for the next installment. Strongly recommended for YA and fantasy fans.
July 31, 2014
Loved this book! It was well written, I didn't notice typos & wrong words being used like I tend to find. Story flowed nicely & kept me engaged! Definitely hooked me for the next book!
February 18, 2018
Meanmna is such an awesome read! I fell in love with the story and the characters right from the beginning. I loved that we didn't just get a quick introduction and then right into the other realm. The author took the time to have part of the story where it begins in Michigan. We have time to get to know some of the characters before everything changes over to the other realm.
Sarette is a normal teenager who has pretty much grown up with her mom, her best friend Matthew and his mom. She has never known her father or any other family. Everything changes when Sarette goes to purchase a new candle. Her family and her best friend's family is not who she thinks they are. A lot of secrets are revealed when she meets her swoon worthy protector Elwin.
I don't want to reveal too much of the story. I absolutely loved this story. I loved the characters and felt like I was right there in the story. I would of loved to be Sarette as she falls in love with Elwin as they start their journey to Meanmna. The characters that they meet along the way are interesting and fun, well most of them. They endure many obstacles along the way but it's nothing compared to what they find when they finally arrive at their destination.
Overall an awesome story that I didn't want to put down. This is the first book that I have read from this author and it definitely won't be my last. I recommend reading this book if you love fantasy!
Sarette is a normal teenager who has pretty much grown up with her mom, her best friend Matthew and his mom. She has never known her father or any other family. Everything changes when Sarette goes to purchase a new candle. Her family and her best friend's family is not who she thinks they are. A lot of secrets are revealed when she meets her swoon worthy protector Elwin.
I don't want to reveal too much of the story. I absolutely loved this story. I loved the characters and felt like I was right there in the story. I would of loved to be Sarette as she falls in love with Elwin as they start their journey to Meanmna. The characters that they meet along the way are interesting and fun, well most of them. They endure many obstacles along the way but it's nothing compared to what they find when they finally arrive at their destination.
Overall an awesome story that I didn't want to put down. This is the first book that I have read from this author and it definitely won't be my last. I recommend reading this book if you love fantasy!
December 7, 2017
4.5 *'s when i was only on chapter 4 i was laughing my ass off. love her inner dialogue. i love the authors writing. H and h are so cute together. i hope that they will be able to get and stay together. This story has it's far share of family drama. can't wait to read book 2.
February 8, 2019
Quite enjoyed this, but felt it was a little too young for me .
August 16, 2020
Read few pages - skipped. New Adult.
September 22, 2014
A big 4 ½ stars from me. The author did a great job, of capturing my imagination. I could see the different worlds in my mind's eye, from her descriptions. I liked Sarette, I did feel she accepted her fate, far too easily. But, who wouldn't when, it fell upon you to save the fey race. I liked the closeness she had with Matthew and when, we find out why that is, it makes sense. A lot of secrets are revealed and again, fits perfectly into the plot. I loved that she referred, to her fey family's home as La la land, every time I read that, I laughed. She loses her heart to Elwin, if I'm honest I did too. He has been watching over her, since she was little, so knows everything about her. Their loves grows, over time throughout the book, even if Elwin feels he can't be with her. I loved the interaction between these two, it was so sweet. Her magic, is stronger than anyone thought and as her journey continues, everyone they cross paths with, are intrigued by her. Yes, we do have a baddie in the form of Ray, 'boo, hiss', which leads to an amazing battle scene, which I loved. The ending was perfect and I really can't wait to read book two. I hope we have more about Matthew, I want to know what happens to him. I can imagine, the darkness is going to get worse, and they have many battles to face. I can't wait.
September 12, 2014
I believe harry potter fans much awaited greed for another series is what gave birth to meanmna: Book One of the Daearen Realms. Emmy Gatrell can now very well close her eyes and imagine herself as the next generation JK Rowling.
Welcome to the amazing magical world of Emmy lovers of magic stories. It’s a great fantasy novel and Emmy has very wisely left scope for its development in the ending. I think she was waiting to see how much the readers like it. Well I guess now she knows the readers like it enough for her to write the second one in the series.
Welcome to the amazing magical world of Emmy lovers of magic stories. It’s a great fantasy novel and Emmy has very wisely left scope for its development in the ending. I think she was waiting to see how much the readers like it. Well I guess now she knows the readers like it enough for her to write the second one in the series.
July 13, 2016
This is was a fun read. I like the names Sarette and Elwin which I believe is fitting to the story. Sarette is one sassy character. She knows what she wants and she goes after it swinging. I like how the author describe the Fey realms which is exciting and more vibrant than the other Fey realms that I've read. I was on the edge of my seat while reading Sarette journey to the Daearen Realms. I will absolutely read the second book because I can't wait to read about the type of ruler Sarette will be.
November 2, 2016
This is was a fun read. I like the names Sarette and Elwin which I believe is fitting to the story. Sarette is one sassy character. She knows what she wants and she goes after it swinging. I like how the author describe the Fey realms which is exciting and more vibrant than the other Fey realms that I've read. I was on the edge of my seat while reading Sarette journey to the Daearen Realms. I will absolutely read the second book because I can't wait to read about the type of ruler Sarette will be.
September 24, 2014
Interesting and Fast Read
I would recommend this book for all who enjoy action, romance, and royalty. The story's flow held my attention and kept my interest. I found the characters to be friendly and their interactions realistic for the genre. This would have been 5 stars if the book had been longer with more description or dialogue and if I was sure about the pronunciation of the title and some of the names of the characters.
I would recommend this book for all who enjoy action, romance, and royalty. The story's flow held my attention and kept my interest. I found the characters to be friendly and their interactions realistic for the genre. This would have been 5 stars if the book had been longer with more description or dialogue and if I was sure about the pronunciation of the title and some of the names of the characters.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews