The cost to Idrisa for saving her world from dark magic is high. She must return to Dumonia, the very empire she vowed never to go back to, and destroy The Tree of Life and Death. But her plan fails when Ravana intercedes and unleashes her creatures.
No amount of preparation, weaponry, or dragons will ensure their win unless Idrisa and Caliburn seal the rip in their sky, the very essences where dark magic began. As more secrets are revealed, loyalties are tested, and one way or another, an ending is on its way. Idrisa must give everything to save her world.
Born in Seoul, Korea, author Mary Ting is an international bestselling, multi-gold award-winning author. Her books span a wide range of genres, and her storytelling talents have earned a devoted legion of fans, as well as garnered critical praise. She is a diverse voice who writes diverse characters, often dealing with a catastrophic world.
Becoming an author happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother and inspired by a dream she had in high school. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, Mary retired from teaching. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.
Wow! Oh my WOW! What a ride and rush! So much has happened since Once Upon a Legend, book 1, and, to come to the end like it did! What a journey/quest these characters went through and endured! Whoa! I am still reeling with all the feels after closing the book! What a fascinating world Bestselling Author Mary Ting created! Well, I may be biased since I do love that King Arthur/Excalibur story/legend... Haha! But, wow! Just OMG Wow!
So much development and discovery for all the characters! I loved that by the last book in this trilogy, secrets, truths, and mysteries were revealed... and questions were answered! Yep! Things that want to make you go... "Hmmm 🤔." Once Upon a Realm tied up everything that had occurred and revealed since the first book. The is definitely an imaginative and enchanting take on the origins of the Excalibur/King Arthur legend.
Yup! I am still reeling with the feels. So much so that I am pretty much speechless. Not much more I can say, other than just read this trilogy! Reading the Once Upon a Legend trilogy will definitely whisk any reader away to this magical world! It has magic, intrigue, mystery, action, adventure, and a little bit of romance...Haha! Oh yeah! For sure, it is so good! So worth the read! 😁
Reviewed by Jasmine Disclaimer: We received a free ecopy for an honest review. All is my own opinion
The author did a great job writing this book. The characters were well written. I loved how you are wondering what is going to happen next the entire time you are reading the book.
Once Upon A Realm by Mary Ting is a captivating read which keeps the readers hooked till the end. It is the third book in the series. The story revolves around Idrisa, who must return to Dumonia, the empire she vowed never to go back to, and destroy The Tree of Life and Death. But her plan fails when Ravana interrupts and unleashes her creatures. More secrets are revealed, loyalties are tested, and now Idrisa must give everything to save her world.
The story is engaging and fast-paced. The author's flawless narrative makes everything vivid. The twists and turns make it an unputdownable read. The story is emotional. The ending is unexpected. I loved Idrisa's courage. Such a deeply moving fantasy read. It is a story about sacrifice, courage and destiny.
Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
In Once Upon a Realm, the stakes are higher than ever as Idrisa embarks on a perilous journey to save her world from the looming threat of dark magic. This third installment in the Once Upon a Legend series beautifully continues Idrisa's story, delivering a gripping mix of action, high fantasy, and emotional depth.
Idrisa’s return to Dumonia, an empire she vowed to never revisit, immediately sets a tense tone. The mission to destroy the Tree of Life and Death—a symbol of the life-and-death forces that fuel the world—feels monumental. But as always, nothing goes as planned, and Ravana’s intervention heightens the danger, bringing even more creatures of darkness into the mix. Ting's world-building continues to shine here, with rich details and a vibrant magical system that adds layers to the unfolding conflict.
Idrisa’s struggle isn’t just about physical survival—it’s about protecting everything she holds dear while grappling with her own doubts. The emotional weight of the story deepens as secrets come to light, and loyalties are pushed to the breaking point. Caliburn’s role in helping to seal the rip in the sky, where dark magic was born, adds complexity to their bond, and I appreciated how their relationship evolves amidst the chaos.
The dragons and magical creatures add excitement, but it’s the character growth and the sense of impending sacrifice that give this book its heart. Idrisa's determination to face her fears and give everything for her world feels especially poignant, making her a heroine you can’t help but root for. Ting does a masterful job of tying together previous plot threads while introducing unexpected twists, keeping the suspense high until the very end.
For fans of the Once Upon a Legend series, Once Upon a Realm is a satisfying and thrilling continuation. With new allies, shifting loyalties, and a powerful sense of destiny, this book delivers on every level. Idrisa's journey will keep you on the edge of your seat, and the stakes are higher than ever in this emotionally charged, magical adventure. If you love stories filled with dragons, dark magic, and a heroine fighting against all odds, this is one you won’t want to miss!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
With this book Mary draws a dangerous, dark, magical yet beautiful conclusion to the series of Once Upon A Legend.
In this part the stakes have gone higher than ever as Idrisa embarks on a journey with her companions to save the world from the threat of dark magic taking over.
Idrisa has to return to Dumonia, a place she swore never to return to, on a mission to destroy the Tree of Life and Death. A place from all the demons of Ravana comes to life. But things never go as planned, right? the same happens with Idrisa when she has to fight with Ravana on the way which not only heightens the danger but the drama and action too.
Idrisa also has to seal the rip in the sky where the dark magic was born from which adds to the complexity in their bond and the chaos it follows.
I really loved Idrisa's charachter where despite finding herself in the midst of danger, conflicts, magical creatures and beasts along with the secrets that when comes to light pushes loyalties to the breaking point she never looses her strength and determination. Her strength to not fall in the moments of doubt and betrayal is what keeps her going and inspires the readers so much.
Mary has done an exceptionally wonderful job with the climax of this series by tying all the loose ends from the previous books and adding the twists and turns till the very end to keep you the edge of your seat.
So if you love your books with magic, an exceptionally beautiful world setting, a fierce and powerful FMC who fights for the truth, saves the world fighting against all the odds, then this one is for you.
And the fantasy lovers, this is the underdog of your world.
I just finished Once Upon a Realm, and wow… this book really pulled me in from the very first page. Being the third book in the Once Upon a Legend series, I already felt connected to the characters, but this one raised the stakes in a way that was both thrilling and heartbreaking.
The story is brutal at times — battles, betrayals, and dark magic everywhere — yet it’s also deeply emotional. Idrisa’s courage and sacrifice left me in awe. You can feel the weight of her choices, especially when she returns to Dumonia, the place she swore she’d never go back to. Ravana was terrifying in every scene, and the whole cavern sequence gave me chills. On the other side, Merrick and Rocco’s banter added the perfect touch of humor and humanity when things got too heavy.
What I loved most is how Mary Ting balances epic world-building (dragons, caverns, the Tree of Life and Death, the rip in the sky) with very real emotions like loyalty, betrayal, fear, and love. It’s not just a fantasy battle — it’s about people making impossible choices for those they love.
The ending left me both exhausted and satisfied. It wasn’t the neat “happily ever after” I might have expected, but it felt right for the story. Honestly, it still feels like there’s more to come, even though this is the last book of the trilogy.
⭐ Final Thoughts: If you enjoy fantasy that mixes dragons, dark magic, and epic battles with raw human emotion and sacrifice, this series is worth picking up. Once Upon a Realm is a powerful and emotional conclusion to Idrisa’s journey, and I’d definitely recommend it to fantasy lovers.
I was hooked from the first crack in their sky. Idrisa’s sacrifice felt huge to me—she gave up everything to save her world. I could feel the weight of her return to Dumonia, the place she swore never to visit. Ravana terrified me; the birth scene in the cavern was dark and unforgettable. I felt sick and fascinated watching baby Artheo surface from that cruel stream. Caliburn and the dragons made me believe in fierce, impossible allies. The Tree of Life and Death sounded like a doom I couldn’t look away from. When Ravana’s beasts were unleashed, my heart raced with every threat they posed. I liked how loyalty and betrayal kept changing who I trusted. Artheo’s past and ambition made me uneasy—he felt dangerous and magnetic. Merrick and Rocco’s banter gave me small relief amid the tension. I admired Idrisa’s stubborn courage—she never let fear decide for her. The world-building pulled me in: caverns, palaces, dungeons—each scene lived. I was moved by the idea that sealing the rip in the sky was also sealing old wounds. The stakes felt personal, like watching friends risk everything for one last chance.
The book mixed brutal moments with tender ones and I loved that contrast. Sometimes I wanted to shake the characters and tell them not to split up. By the end I felt both exhausted and eager—this felt like only part of a larger war. For me, this story is an emotional, action-packed journey about sacrifice and destiny.
'Once Upon A Realm' is an engrossing fantasy thriller and the third book in the 'Once Upon a Legend series'. Blending adventure, fantasy and drama, the author has woven a magical tale.
The story continues from the first two books and follows the story of Idrisa, who after fleeing from Dumonia and seeking refuge with Elora in the previous book, has now returned back to Elora. She seeks to destroy the The Tree of Life and Death. But her mission doesn't go as planned and soon she is overwhelmed by creatures of darknes. Will Idrisa be able to save the world from threat of dark magic?
The book starts right where it left us, pulling us into the world of Dumonia where Idrisa must battle various magical creatures in order to seal the rip in the sky. Beyond the adventure, the book narrates Idrisa's emotional journey as she battles to protect her world. The story takes more twists and turns, as more and more secrets are revealed and alliances change, keeping you hooked till the end. The element of magic adds to the thrill of the story.
The characters are well crafted but Idrisa is undoubtedly the central to the entire story. The book does well to highlight her fears and weaknesses, along with her heroic qualities. The story continues the momentum from the previous two books, without missing a beat. The world building is excellent and the narrative is fast paced.
Overall, 'Once Upon A Realm' is a great addition to the series and if you enjoy magical fantasies, this series is just right for you.
Once Upon a Realm by Mary Ting is an absolute masterpiece and the perfect conclusion to the Once Upon a Legend trilogy. From the very first chapter, it pulls you into a whirlwind of magic, destiny, and heart-stirring adventure. Ting’s world-building is nothing short of phenomenal. She takes the roots of Arthurian mythology and breathes fresh life into it, creating a realm that feels both familiar and entirely new.
Idrisa’s journey is the emotional core of the story. Watching her grow through love, loss, and impossible choices was both inspiring and heartbreaking. Her courage and vulnerability make her one of the most memorable heroines I’ve read in fantasy. Every character feels real, every relationship layered with meaning, and by the end, it truly feels like saying goodbye to old friends.
Mary Ting masterfully balances action-packed battles with quiet, introspective moments that hit straight to the heart. The pacing is perfect, the twists are clever, and the writing is so vivid that you can almost feel the magic seeping off the page.
This finale ties the trilogy together beautifully, answering questions, deepening the lore, and leaving readers both satisfied and yearning for more. Once Upon a Realm isn’t just a fantasy tale, it’s a story about bravery, destiny, and the power of the heart.
If you love immersive worlds, rich mythology, and emotionally charged storytelling, this trilogy is an absolute must-read. I’m still reeling from the ending, and I already miss these characters dearly. Mary Ting has truly delivered an unforgettable conclusion!
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞: "I’ve loved you since we were kids. I tried so damn hard to get you to love me back, and just when I’d thought you might return my affection, he enters our lives and takes you away from me."
𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬? This series was personally recommended to me by a fellow reader and that’s why I decided to begin this fantasy journey.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: I really like the overall presentation of the book. The cover is absolutely gorgeous and along with the title, it complements the storyline perfectly. I do feel that the inclusion of some character art could have further elevated the appeal.
𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧: ✓ This is book three of the Once Upon A Legend series and continues the storyline in a seamless way. Indrisa must return to Dumonia to destroy the Tree of Life and Death, but the journey is far from simple. ✓ I was hooked till the very end. The storyline is highly engaging, and this installment did not disappoint me in the slightest. It was truly difficult to put the book down. ✓ The character development has been handled well, allowing the cast to grow naturally with the story. ✓ While the narration could have been slightly faster, I still appreciated the detail and consistency throughout. ✓ With powerful FMCs, dragons, dark magic, betrayal, and twists, this series offers everything a fantasy reader could hope for. ✓ Overall, it’s a gripping, and adventurous continuation that fantasy lovers will not want to miss.
From the very first chapter, Once Upon a Realm swept me into a whirlwind of magic, danger, and discovery. Mary Ting has built a world that feels both familiar through its Arthurian inspiration and yet entirely new with her imaginative spin. Every page carried tension, emotion, and a sense of urgency that made it impossible to put the book down.
What stood out most for me was the way the characters evolved throughout the trilogy. By the conclusion of this installment, their growth felt earned and meaningful. Secrets unraveled, long-held mysteries found their answers, and every revelation added depth to the story. Ting’s ability to balance heart-pounding action with heartfelt emotion is impressive, and it left me thinking about the characters long after finishing.
This book is rich with atmosphere, blending fantasy, mythology, and a spark of romance in a way that feels seamless. The battles are gripping, the twists are clever, and the emotional stakes keep climbing. By the time I reached the final chapters, I was holding my breath, fully invested in how everything would resolve.
If you are looking for a fantasy story that combines legendary lore with fresh imagination, this trilogy delivers. It has everything: adventure, betrayal, magic, destiny, and a heroine you cannot help but cheer for. Once Upon a Realm is not just a satisfying finale, it is an epic conclusion that ties everything together beautifully.
"Once Upon a Realm" by Mary Ting is a magnificent and high-stakes conclusion to the Once Upon a Legend trilogy, delivering a spectacular blend of Arthurian legend, high fantasy, and heartfelt emotional depth. This installment picks up seamlessly, plunging the reader back into a world where the cost of salvation is steep and the line between ally and enemy is constantly blurred.
One of the trilogy’s greatest strengths, which shines brightly in this final book, is the natural and authentic character development. Idrisa's growth feels fully earned and meaningful as she grapples with her fears, weaknesses, and destiny. The entire cast, from the central protagonist to characters like Ravana, Caliburn, and Artheo, complete their arcs in a satisfying way. They truly feel like old friends, making the inevitable betrayals and sacrifices even more impactful and emotionally resonant.
If you are seeking a fantasy trilogy that combines legendary lore with fresh, imaginative twists, "Once Upon a Realm" delivers an apt and thrilling conclusion. It is a deeply moving story about sacrifice, courage, and destiny that wraps up all the storylines from the previous books in a seamless, high-momentum fashion.
Highly recommended for fans of epic high fantasy, Arthurian retellings, and stories with strong female leads. You will be hooked by the magic and left thinking about the characters long after the final page
“Once Upon a Realm” is the breathtaking finale that the Once Upon a Legend trilogy truly deserved. The satisfaction of watching good triumph over evil is exactly what I was waiting for and yet, I couldn’t help but wonder if it was really the end or just another beginning in disguise.
The story clarifies long-buried mysteries, merging dramatic action, emotional reunions, and a battle that tries the protagonists' last ounce of courage. Idrisa and Merrick eventually achieving their happily ever after felt so well-earned, though not without sadness, as the deaths of beloved people added a bittersweet edge to the ending that lingered far after the last page was turned.
The way Mary Ting ties the story to the King Arthur legends with the Ladies of the Lake and the Excalibur-inspired sword, it completely took my breath away. Her world-building, mythology, and storytelling are richer than ever in this finale. Every character fought fiercely to restore balance to their world, and those moments of unity and sacrifice were everything a fantasy reader could hope for.
My heart warmed at the family reunions that provided the ideal emotional closure after years apart. "Once Upon a Realm" offers equal parts magic, bravery, and optimism. A tale of fate coming full circle, love enduring, and good triumphing. Every fan of fantasy who longs for emotional adventure must read this book.
Mary Ting’s Once Upon a Realm is the third book in the series from the world of Dumonia, yet again. This book is a roller coaster ride for the readers that keeps them on the edge of their seats till the very end to bring peace over Dumonia.
The book takes the readers into a world where courage and sacrifice define destiny. The cost to Idrisa for saving her world from dark magic is high. She must return to Dumonia, the very empire she vowed never to go back to, and destroy the Tree of Life and Death. But her plan fails when Ravana intercedes and unleashes her creatures. No amount of preparation, weaponry, or dragons will ensure their win unless Idrisa and Caliburn seal the rip in their sky — the very essence where dark magic began. Slowly, the world of Dumonia is being consumed by the dark magic and its roots. Before it gets too late, Ravana has to be destroyed, restoring harmony to the land.
Ting plays with her words, mixing emotions and tensions throughout the book. This book may be tough to comprehend if you haven’t indulged in the previous books. The chapters and characters may seem a bit too confusing and heavy for a first-time reader. But once you get the crux of the fantasy world you would thoroughly love it.
Once Upon a Realm is a powerful blend of myth, magic, and humanity — a story where hope endures even when the cost is everything.
Once Upon A Realm (Once Upon A Legend Book 3) by Mary Ting is a gripping, fast-paced sequel in a fantasy series that masterfully fuses savage combat, as well as, sweet moments of loyalty and love. Idrisa's return to Dumnonia, a place she swore she would never see again sets us up for a mission to destroy the Tree of Life and Death. With Caliburn, Idrisa confronts Ravana's horrifying beasts, Artheo's all-consuming ambition and the unmitigated pain of sacrifice. Ting's balance between epic world-building; caverns, castles, dragons, etc; and the intimate struggles of characters brings the stakes to a personal level. Courage, betrayal and impossible choices propel the action of the story and last throughout the end of the novel. Idrisa's emotional sacrifice as well as the camaraderie with characters like Merrick and Rocco gives heart to the intense action. The end is surprising and intense and particularly exciting because it is difficult to predict how it will unfold. It also is exhausting and will leave readers wanting more! Ting has delivered an extraordinary third installment that every epic fantasy fan should read. With a compelling mix of sacrifice, destiny, and high-stakes battles, Once Upon A Realm is an emotional and action-packed fantasy that will leave you wanting more.
This book picks up right where the second book left off. Idrisa and her team of heroes find out that there are still more layers to the mystery of what happened 18 years ago that set the empire off on the dark path they must now try to survive.
The action is non-stop and jumps between the viewpoints of the different groups of Blood Plague survivors as they search for allies to defeat Ravenna and seal the portal that is destroying their world. My heart broke for the loved ones who fell in battle. Idrisa, Merrick and the orphans go through so much trying to right the unimaginable evil that was brought forth by the sacrifice of hundreds of infants years ago.
So many players end up in the ultimate battle for their world, both humans and creatures, that it was truly an ensemble cast. They way Mary Ting weaves together alliances and enmities was so well done I could not put this book down. I was truly rooting for the whole kingdom to get a happily-ever-after.
I wholeheartedly recommend this series to all fans of fantasy, both YA and adult.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
🔖 “Some sacrifices shatter you, but they also save everything you love.”
The third book in this series absolutely gripped me. By now, the characters feel like family, and it broke my heart to see some of them not make it through the brutal battles. 💔
This story is brutal, emotional, and full of sacrifice. From the first crack in the sky, I was hooked. Idrisa’s sacrifice shook me, Ravana’s presence terrified me, and Artheo’s ambition kept me uneasy. The cavern birth scene, the dragons, the Tree of Life and Death — unforgettable. 🐉🌑
What I loved most is how the book mixed brutality with tender, emotional moments. The loyalty, betrayals, courage, and impossible choices made the journey feel real. Merrick and Rocco’s banter gave me relief amid all the tension, while Idrisa’s courage inspired me deeply.
The ending — unexpected and powerful — left me exhausted yet eager, like this is only part of a much larger war. ⚔️
⭐ Final Thoughts: An emotional, action-packed journey about sacrifice, destiny, and the cost of saving a world.
This third book in the Once Upon a Legend series masterfully continues Idrisa's story, offering a thrilling blend of action, high fantasy, and emotional depth.
Idrisa's return to Dumonia, an empire she had swore never to visit again, quickly sets a tense tone. The mission to destroy the Tree of Life and Death, which represents the world's life-and-death powers, feels tremendous. But, as often, nothing goes as planned, and Ravana's intervention adds to the danger by sending in even more creatures of darkness. Ting's world-building shines through here, with rich details and a vivid magical system that adds dimensions to the battle.
I appreciated how devotion and betrayal continually changed who I trusted. Artheo's past and ambition made me uneasy—he was both scary and magnetic. Merrick and Rocco's joking provided some solace amid the tension.
Mary Ting will take you to a high and then build you back up with another character. In the end all will be the way it is supposed to be, with a huge WOW moment. I absolutely loved this series.
Once Upon A Realm is the third book in the Once Upon a Legend series and continues Idrisa's story with even more adventure, emotion, and magic. This book had me hooked from page one.
Mary ting built a really amazing fantasy world, usually it takes me time to grasp a fantasy world because it’s often too complex to understand, but with this series, I never had that problem
Each character shaped the story in its own way and their growth throughout the series made this book even better.
I loved how the author balanced mystery, action, romance, history, mythology and emotion in the book so beautifully. The mythology sections of the book were so rich and the pace of the book is also good it’s never slow, so you won’t be able to put it down once you pick it up.
I loved all the twists and turns and the conclusion left me speechless and utterly in love with this series. Overall I enjoyed the book and it's a definite 5star read. A rich, complex fantasy that fans of mythology, action and mystery will really enjoy. I will highly recommend it
This part of the series was brutal, emotional, and unforgettable. From the very first crack in the sky, I was pulled in and couldn’t stop reading. Idrisa’s sacrifice hit me hard, it felt so heavy and selfless that I carried it with me even after finishing. Her return to Dumonia had so much weight, and Ravana’s darkness honestly terrified me in every scene. The cavern birth scene was one I’ll never forget, and Artheo’s ambition kept me uneasy the whole time, like danger was always near.
What I loved most was how the book mixed brutality with tender, human moments. Merrick and Rocco’s banter gave me small breaths of relief when things got too intense, while Idrisa’s courage constantly inspired me. The dragons, the Tree of Life and Death, the betrayals and shifting loyalties—everything felt alive. The ending left me both heartbroken and hopeful, a powerful close to this part of the journey.
Once Upon A Realm is the third book in the Once Upon a Legend series and continues Idrisa’s story with even more adventure, emotion, and magic. The story begins right where the previous one ended, taking readers back into the world of Dumonia, a place Idrisa once promised never to return to.
This time, she must face powerful magical creatures and find a way to save her world while trying to destroy the Tree of Life and Death. The plot is filled with twists, secrets, and unexpected turns that keep you engaged till the end.
Idrisa’s courage and emotions shine throughout the story. She feels real, with both strengths and fears that make her journey even more meaningful. The writing flows smoothly, the world-building feels vivid, and the pace keeps the excitement alive from start to finish.
It’s a story of bravery, destiny, and sacrifice, ending on an emotional and satisfying note. If you enjoy magical adventures with heartfelt characters, Once Upon A Realm is definitely worth reading.
"Once Upon A Realm" by Mary Ting is the thrilling third installment in the Once Upon A Legend series. The story follows Idrisa, a brave and determined heroine, as she navigates a world of magic, politics, and ancient prophecies.
The book features a richly detailed world with magical creatures, ancient lore, and a complex history that draws readers in.
Idrisa's journey is particularly well-received, showcasing her bravery, determination, and growth amidst adversity.
The story is fast-paced, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers hooked.
Overall Assessment "Once Upon A Realm" is a captivating fantasy novel that concludes the Once Upon A Legend series on a high note. With its engaging characters, immersive world-building, and thrilling plot, it's a must-read for fans of young adult fantasy.
I'm still reeling from the conclusion of "Once Upon a Realm" by Mary Ting. Idrisa's journey has been an emotional rollercoaster, and I'm so invested in her story. Ting's world-building is phenomenal, blending Arthurian mythology with fresh twists and surprises. The characters feel like old friends, and their growth throughout the trilogy is both authentic and heartbreaking. The pacing is expertly handled, with action-packed battles and quiet moments of introspection. I loved watching Idrisa navigate the complexities of her world and her own heart. The writing is evocative and immersive, making it easy to get lost in the world. If you're looking for a fantasy series that will capture your heart and imagination, look no further. This trilogy is a must-read, and I'm already missing the characters and world.
The book "Once Upon A Realm" by Mary Ting is the finale of the series, and what a conclusion it is. It's a fantastic fantasy novel centered on the character Idrisa, who faces a high cost to save her world from dark magic. Idrisa must return to Dumonia, an empire she had vowed never to revisit, to destroy the Tree of Life and Death, a symbol of the forces that fuel life and death.
The story is filled with new allies, unexpected heroes, dragons, and magical creatures, with intense action and emotional stakes. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and courage as Idrisa battles not only for survival but also to protect everything she holds dear. The narrative features complex character development. Idrisa's journey is both thrilling and emotionally charged, making this a compelling read for fans of the genre.
Once Upon a Realm shows the story filled with magic, danger, and discovery. The author explores magical elements with a space for romance, adventures and horrors.
The fantasy elements are captivating. The characters are capable of blending magic and dark thrills. “Ravana had stormed in on a black alicorn creature from her dark magic…” the characters portray the thrilling rescues and adventures.
Idrisa’s return to Dumonia is interesting as she vowed never to return there. The plot revolves around fantasy, and the pace is supported by romance.
The book is exciting, not just for fantasy elements but for interesting mythological details. The book has 44 chapters. Each chapter covers a character and the story.
“Sage never wanted to go through the pain again.”- The book introduces wars and their scary effects. Overall, the book is lengthy but interesting.
I was extremely eager to read the 3rd book in the “Once upon a legend” series by author Mary Ting.
This book follows the previous two with great world-building, delving more into the highly charged emotions of all the characters. Idrisa is back amidst action as she battles the dark creatures and their mistress Ravana in Dumonia. The Dracans feature extensively throughout the book, and they definitely raise the book’s aura points😌
The writing style, as always, is flowy and descriptive. The book is quite detailed about all the characters and their various stances. Twists are as good as the first two books, but special mention goes to the Epilogue. The author has cleverly ingrained this series with popular lore. What is it, you ask? I would suggest you read the whole series and find out the connection!
This is a fun and exciting fantasy story. It has magic, adventure, and strong characters. Idrisa, the main character, is brave and tries to save her world from darkness. The book has many surprises and keeps you interested until the end. If you like stories about magic and heroes, you will enjoy this book.
A young girl named Idrisa has to defend her world against a strong and sinister magic. She attempts to do this by going back to a kingdom she left behind and destroying a magical tree that governs life and death. However, matters worsen when Ravana, an enemy, unleashes terrible beasts.
Idrisa has to mend the broken sky and unearth secrets with her buddy Caliburn's assistance. Everything has been presented in an amazing way. You all should definitely try this.
'Once Upon A Realm' by Mary Ting is the third and final book in the Once upon a Legend series. We get to see more of Idrisa’s life. The adventurous journey kept me going. The story was still as engaging as the previous two books. I loved her character in the previous two books, and loved it in this one too. Her journey feels real and very relatable. The world building is awesome.
In this part, we get to see Indrisa’s return to Dumonia. If you are someone who loves reading fantasy filled with magic, dragons and even dark magic, pick this one! This time she returns to destroy the Tree of Life and Death.
So, to sum up, it was a pretty good read. It's better if you read the first two books and then this one. It was medium paced. The twists and turns were good.
"Once Upon A Legend" by Mary Ting is a beautiful mix of fantasy, romance, and mythology.
Set in the mystical world of Dumnonia, the story follows Idrisa, an orphan unknowingly chosen by destiny, and Prince Merrick, who’s grieving his mother’s death and uncovering dark secrets within his family. Their fates intertwine as they face betrayal, prophecy, and the powerful sword, Calibur.
The world-building is rich, filled with faes, magic, and breathtaking adventures. I really loved how the author blended emotions with action—it felt like reading a mix of Game of Thrones and Arthurian legend. The pacing slows a bit in parts, but the story’s heart and imagination make it completely worth reading.
The characters were just as amazing as they've been since the beginning.
The storyline was incredible!! Oh boy did this book suck me into the pages but it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The characters and their adventures kept me turning the page to find out more. I loved the different POV's within the story so that we got a look into the heads of each of the characters. And that ending....it was perfection. I am happy about this ending, yet I am sad that this is the final book. All those characters will live in my heart forever and will never be forgotten. I highly recommend this read.