If you had the chance to remake the world, what kind of world would you choose?
When tragedy strikes Lucas Mack's young life, he desperately yearns to escape its sorrow, and takes an improbable leap through the mythical maelstrom. Rather than splashing down on the far side like his neighbors, he's transported to a magical realm where he has the power to redefine not only who he is, but the world in which he resides.
As he stumbles about trying to find his way, he meets Mia, an equally troubled fellow pilgrim. With the help of a mystical guide and an aging wizard, they navigate the enchanted land while learning to control their newfound powers. Yet this realm is more complex than they expected, with seasoned sorcerers who've been corrupted by the sinister side of magic.
Limited by natural law and seduced by magic's power, they are tested as never before. Will the gift of magic bring renewed hope or drive them to the edge of the void?
EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS a mythical fantasy adventure from David Litwack, the multiple-award-winning author whose books have received such extraordinary acclaim.
The urge to write first struck at age sixteen when working on a newsletter at a youth encampment in the woods of northern Maine. It may have been the wild night when lightning flashed at sunset followed by the northern lights rippling after dark. Or maybe it was the newsletter’s editor, a girl with eyes the color of the ocean. But he was inspired to write about the blurry line between reality and the fantastic.
Using two fingers and lots of white-out, he religiously typed five pages a day throughout college and well into his twenties. Then life intervened. He paused to raise two sons and pursue a career, in the process — and without prior plan — becoming a well-known entrepreneur in the software industry, founding several successful companies. When he found time again to daydream, the urge to write returned.
In this new stage of his life, he’s published Along the Watchtower in June, 2013 and The Daughter of the Sea and the Sky in May, 2014. His latest book, The Children of Darkness, the first of the Seekers series, a dystopian trilogy, was published in June, 2015.
David now lives in the great Northwest and anywhere else that catches his fancy. He no longer limits himself to five pages a day and is thankful every keystroke for the invention of the word processor.
I enjoyed this book. The author, David Litwack, does a beautiful job of tackling deeper, more emotional subjects/characters while also world-building in a very engaging way. This is definitely a YA book, so while I thought some moments felt a little too slow, I can see younger folks newer to fantasy really enjoying the pace and content.
I appreciated the narrative and the POV of the book. It lent itself to being able to tackle the tougher subjects more effectively. I truly believe that this book will resonate significantly with youth. The fantasy genre is such an important tool—Litwack has a promising career ahead of him, especially in the YA genre if he wants it.
I look forward to reading more from Litwack and I hope this book is able to have a positive impact on readers of YA.
What would you sacrifice to remake the world? Let’s find out in David Litwack's novel, The Maker of Worlds.
We follow the journey of Lucas, a young man haunted by the recent death of his beloved Addy. Feeling lost and adrift, Lucas contemplates passing through a mysterious portal known as the maelstrom, which appears on the lake near his home every spring. Though he had always been intrigued by it, Lucas had never taken the leap - until now, six months after Addy's passing. When Lucas finally summons the courage to pass through the mysterious maelstrom, he finds himself in a fantastical borderland, a transitional realm where magic is real. There, he meets the custodian, a peculiar man who explains to Lucas that he now possesses the ability to shape this new world through the power of his imagination and conviction. However, the custodian also warns Lucas that the enchanted land is ruled by dangerous sorcerers, and that he must be cautious in how he wields his newfound abilities.
Soon, Lucas is joined by a young woman named Mia, who has also stumbled into the borderlands through the maelstrom. Like Lucas, Mia is grieving the loss of her past life. Together, Lucas and Mia set out to explore the borderlands and hone their newfound magic, creating everything from lush gardens to cozy cottages. However, their abilities soon draw the attention of a tyrannical lord of a nearby castle, who has used his magic to abduct children from the neighboring villages. As Lucas and Mia grow in skill, they become entangled in the tyrant's schemes, forced to confront not only his malicious magic but the darkness that lies within their own hearts.
Litwack's The Maker of Worlds is a fantasy adventure that immerses the reader in a vivid magical realm, where the protagonists' growth and transformation mirror the larger struggle between light and darkness, hope and despair. Litwack's novel excels at exploring the corrupting nature of power and the sacrifices required to wield it. The breakneck pacing and vivid action sequences keep the pages turning, while the world-building immerses readers in a realm where the line between reality and fantasy blurs. Yet, the story's true strength lies in its examination of the human condition, as Lucas and Mia grapple with questions of purpose, loss, and the true meaning of hope.
What sets The Maker of Worlds apart is the author's balancing act between the grand, sweeping scope of the fantasy genre and the relatable and deeply personal struggles of the protagonists. Readers will be left pondering how far they would go to remake the world in their own image, and whether the price of such ambition is too high to bear.
Quill says: A thought-provoking fantasy adventure that examines the pitfalls of absolute power, The Maker of Worlds is a must-read for fans of immersive, character-driven fantasy.
Imagine a world where your deepest desires and wildest dreams can come true—but only if you dare to face your darkest fears. In The Maker of Worlds by David Litwack, this becomes a fascinating and thought-provoking journey as one man’s grief sends him into a world where magic is real. Still, the cost of wielding it may be higher than he ever imagined.
The central idea is that while people can create new realities, they can't escape their past. This is shown when Lucas realizes he can't bring Addy back to life in the new world despite his magical powers. The book emphasizes the importance of moving forward and building from aspirations rather than clinging to memories. The author uses a richly developed fantasy world to discuss grief, hope, and the ethical use of power. Lucas's journey through this realm, meeting characters like the custodian and Mia, highlights the complexity of using magic responsibly and the darkness that power can reveal.
One key takeaway is that creation comes from looking forward, not back. Lyra, a guide in the story, tells Lucas, “This world must be built from aspirations, not memories.” This means the character and the reader must focus on future possibilities, not past regrets. The book has big fantasy elements and personal struggles, so it’s good for fantasy fans and those who like deeper themes. It will make you think about the morality of power and move on from past hurts. How far would you go to remake your world, and what would you give up?
This book gives readers a deep look at how we can rebuild our lives after loss. As Lucas steps into the unknown, readers are left thinking about their ability to shape their future, showing that sometimes the most magical journey is the one we take within ourselves.
First off, Litwack’s writing style is an absolute delight. The way he paints Lucas Mack’s journey from tragedy to a fantastical realm is both immersive and vivid. Litwack doesn’t just describe scenes, he brings them to life. You can almost feel the magical maelstrom whisking you away alongside Lucas. One of the standout elements of the story is Litwack’s ability to blend the whimsical with the profound. The enchanted land Lucas finds himself in is described with such detail that you can almost see the shimmering spells and hear the whispers of ancient magic. Yet, it’s not just about the visuals, there’s a depth to the world building that makes the realm feel real. The characters, too, are crafted with a lot of care. Lucas and Mia’s journey isn’t just about mastering magic, it’s a tale of personal growth and overcoming inner demons. Litwack’s prose captures their struggles and triumphs in a way that feels authentic and relatable. There’s also a balance between dialogue and narrative that keeps the pacing just right.
Epic fantasy exploration of life's meaning and purpose.
Our main character is in the throes of grief when he decides to dare himself and take a risk, seeing as he feels he has nothing to lose. The result is he's thrown into a world where sorcerers and magicians rule even though none of them are native to this realm. He meets a female in similar position to him, grieving for her parents. They are brought together through the agency of one of the two helpers of these "pilgrims". A reason I have not awarded the full five stars is that although we learn of the developing relationship, insufficient detail about the depth and intimacy of this is given when compared to other relationships described. My impression was one of companionship, even with the twist at the end.
The two have moral choices to make and have to work inventively to avoid the corrupting seduction of using magical power. I liked the author's inventiveness in how they overcame the handicapping injunction to do no harm with their powers.
There is a resolution which I found satisfying although the ending sets up a credible continuation for our main characters. I would have also liked more cost to the use of magic to make it more credible and difficult for the wielders.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I read The Maker of Worlds as an allegory for life. Lucas, who has been dealing with a tragic incident in his past, jumps at a chance to go through a maelstrom and join a new world. His journey in the new world, both physical and mental, reflected how people must go through life, constantly reinventing themselves, while at the same time dealing with their past. As someone who loves fantasy and has read quite a few of them, I could see clear influences of classics like Narnia and The Wizard of Oz here. I don’t know if the author intended it to be so, but I had great fun making those connections. The book follows classic fantasy tropes, which makes it easy to read, even for someone who is not very much into the genre. Lucas, and his companion in thew world, Mia, first learn how to harness and control magic, and upon the passing of their mentor, help the village fight off their enemies. The cycle from being scared to then learning and rising to the occasion is beautifully executed. I did feel bad when they had to leave this world they had discovered and made their own behind, but then again, this is what happens in life. This is another thing I liked about the book, it did not go for a happy ending, but a realistic one, even if it was bittersweet. I did wish that the book had more showing and less telling, but all in all, it was a great story.
The Maker of Worlds by David Litwack is a deep fantasy book that brings morals and true struggles to the table. Lucas is struggling with grief as he decides to throw caution to the wind and ends up in a new world where anything is made possible for him due to magic. He finds Mia in a similar position and together they have to learn how to use their new powers, and the limits they have. It felt like a true story of Kinship between them and having dealt with a lot of loss in my life it felt accurate and uplifting as they traversed it together. The world is well written and the characters are well rounded and developed which helped with really feeling the book and sinking in to the story. I found myself wondering what I would create given their powers and how important it is to move forward and focus on the future instead of burying yourself in memories. I throughly enjoyed the deeper aspects of the book and would highly recommend to any fans of fantasy, especially if they like a deeper take away from their reads.
What would you do if you had the power to create everything you wanted?
Or, more like, if you had the chance to remake the world, what kind of world would you choose?
Lucas begs to answer this question from the very first chapter, which puts you in his first person POV as he dives into the magical maelstrom to arrive to a completely different world where he’s endowed with the potential to do magic, including changing the landscapes and whatever pleasures he fancies. Not only does this explore the potentially addictive and corrupting component of such power, but also its possibilities for good.
This book definitely introduces some well-needed novelty to the fantasy genre, not only tackling adventure but also philosophy. I do think it was a little heavy handed with the exposition in some of the chapters, especially the beginning ones, and some of the information about the enchanted lands and the magic system could be presented in a more engaging way, but overall this is a very minor observation and the book is consistent with its magical rules, plus fun to read and imagine.
After the death of Addy, Lucas’ life takes a great turn. His life is enveloped with sadness and his dreams are dark. The spring season is evident with the blooming of tulips and daffodils. A spectacle to behold but unfortunately not for Lucas. The Maker of Worlds authored by David Litwack begins with a question that is thought provoking for the reader. This sets the pace for the story hence keeps it alive and makes it unfold in a big way in the reader’s mind. It also keeps the reader engaged. I yearned for the next sentence, paragraph and chapter. Lucas decides to challenge the maelstrom which philosophers believe to be an entry to the gods. There is a lot in store for the protagonist in these enchanted lands. He meets with Mia and they experience a lot together. They also change in so many ways. In addition, the creativity in the characters and events in this story cannot go unmentioned. This is crucial considering that this is a fantasy read. I totally enjoyed reading this book!
I found The Maker of Worlds, by David Litwack, entertaining and thought-provoking. The plot features two main characters, Lucas and Mia, who meet in a new world on their quest to change their lives. A world where they grow socially and mentally, living a fairy tale.
The author did an excellent job with plot development, making the story immersive and interesting. Although the story didn't end according to my expectations and those of many readers, it depicted the reality of life as things don't always turn out as we expect. Therefore, I liked the thrill of the characters leaving the world of fantasy behind.
Moreover, I liked David's language choice and use of first-person narrative style made the story relatable, engaging, and interesting. I enjoyed reading The Maker of Worlds and I highly recommend the book to everyone who likes magic and fantasy stories.
What would you do if you had the power to remake the world to your liking? This is the dilemma Lucas faces. Following a personal loss, he struggles with finding purpose and meaning in life when stumbles through the maelstrom, a magical portal that whisks him away to another world. There he finds himself gifted with magic that allows him to create anything he can imagine.
What I loved about this book is how it often made me stop to think about myself, my imagination, and my creativity. What could I accomplish if I could start on a blank slate today? Even though this is a fantasy novel, it is filled with thought-provoking scenarios. The author's immersive style of writing catapults you alongside the main characters as they journey through a whole new world, face new challenges, friendships, and growth.
The story is well-paced with relatable characters, and a storyline that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
When trying to find a good book to read, I usually read the summary to get a feel for the novel. So, when I read the summary of The Maker of Worlds by David Litwack, I was curious, to say the least. Lucas Mack is an interesting main character, and it was quite an adventure reading from his point of view. I enjoyed his personality and how he connected with other characters. Though the pacing could be slow at times, I enjoy the way David Litwack transitions from flashbacks to the present. Not to mention the journey that Lucas goes through in this novel. His low moments and high moments were intriguing to read. It will definitely resonate with readers, especially those who have gone on a similar journey as Lucas. Overall, this was a fantastic read, and I definitely recommend this novel to fantasy lovers and young adult readers as well. I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.
What if not only you were given a second chance, but also the opportunity to change the entire world around you? That was the opportunity given to Lucas Mack in the book The Maker of Worlds. After losing his beloved Addy, Lucas falls into a deep spiral, but instead of falling into rock bottom, he gets transported to this alternate universe and then gets the opportunity of a lifetime. Would you risk it all not only for a second chance for you but for everyone? Along with Mia, an aged wizard, and a mystical guide, Lucas is tested like ever before with a magic so powerful that its beyond understanding.
The Maker of Worlds is a mystical adventure for the ages. The book was written, edited, and structured professionally. For these reasons, I am rating the book 4.5 stars.
The Maker of Worlds is a fantasy novel where the main characters travel through a portal and find they have magical powers upon reaching the other side. While learning to use their powers, they also learn how these powers give them a great responsibility to help others.
While this novel is a creative and interesting story on its own, it was the underlying theme that made me fall in love with it.
It is a story about two lost people searching for something missing in themselves. At first, a world of magic seems to fill that void. Then, the empty space is filled by helping others. Through their journey they learn to grow and find new hope.
I highly recommend this to fantasy lovers but also to anyone who needs to renew their own hope.
This novel is a fantastic addition to the fantasy genre, offering a blend of magic, adventure, and philosophical inquiry. Litwack’s storytelling captivates and challenges readers, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a deeper, more meaningful fantasy experience.
Litwack masterfully weaves a tale of adventure, self-discovery, and the ethical dilemmas posed by power. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions and complex characters, making for an engaging and thought-provoking read. As Lucas and Mia grapple with their abilities and the moral choices they must make, readers are invited to reflect on the true nature of power and its impact on humanity.
I thoroughly enjoyed this adventure, and would certainly recommend to a friend!
David Litwack's fantasy book "The Maker of the Worlds" is a captivating and thought-provoking read. The novel's title is appropriate, as assigned by the author. The protagonist, Lucas Macks, escapes from the terrible upheavals in his life by stepping into a mythical maelstrom. There are many fascinating turns and turns during his voyage in the magical world where he has the ability to remake both his own life and the rest of the world. It emphasizes the power carries responsibility and that continuing on despite joys and sorrows encountered is the core of life. Strong, endearing, and approachable characters have been skillfully created by the author. The plot moves along at a steady clip and the narrative is impactful. A much recommended read for the fantasy fans.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
As someone who is going through a hard time personally and who also loves reading fantasy, I found this book very engaging. The story was lovely and it dealt with some difficult topics. I am a huge fan of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, and to me the world building was very comparable. It explores the question how would you change the world if you could do it?
One of the things I really liked about it is that it was in first person. This really helps you feel drawn into the story and be a part of it.
As an author this is the power that we have. This was the first book I’ve read from this author but it certainly won’t be the last. I can see why so many readers enjoy his work.
I really loved the characters and for the most part, enjoyed this author's writing style. It's super creative. I liked the incorporation of the main character's dream into the story. I'm not sure if this is teen or adult fiction, but it would be suitable for either.
I just would have appreciated it more if some things were written more clearly. At times, there was a little bit of vagueness, or maybe I missed some things in the text. But overall, I found it to be a peaceful and pleasant read!
I absolutely adored the characters and the author’s imagination. I thought the magical realm he created was very interesting and detailed. I loved the corrupt side of it, too—the good and the evil.
This is a great mythical fantasy. It’s told through an interesting POV and has a wholesome feel (which I’m a huge fan of). There’s something profound about the story, too. It’s not just a fantasy quest, its character growth and I believe the finished series will end up having a deeper meaning.
Beautiful novel on the power of imagination, and friendship. The Maker of Worlds by David Litwack is a little gem that speaks to the child in you - or at least, it did to the child in me. As children, we look to the world and life through the lenses of our dreams and fantasies, we shape it even though we then lose memory of it as adults. This book reminds us that adult life doesn't have to be that "grey" - our imagination can *still* do wonders and make a difference.
This book centers around feelings of depression and loneliness. The main character years to change his reality and does so through a portal. It has some positives and negatives. It presents itself as an action fantasy novel, but it’s rather slow. However, it does a good job of world building and portraying magical lands. It also touches on sensitive topics like sadness, meaning it would probably speak to younger readers who suffer from these and need an outlet.
The author weaves a fun and engaging tale that combines magic and mystery.
The imagery in this story is just excellent. Litwack does a wonderful job conveying the emotions of the characters, as well as the impact of landscape and scenery on people and the story.
I just couldn’t stop reading, but my eyes wouldn’t stay open each night to continue.
Very enjoyable read that draws you in. And keeps you hooked.
The Maker of Worlds by David Litwack is an engaging fantasy novel which engages the reader throughout. The author does a wonderful job in helping readers escape the reality through his creative writing.
The book talks about topics including joy, sorrow and other emotions. It is a great read for summers and must be commended for the good story.
3.5 stars for this gentle fantasy that creates an amazing world and is written in beautiful prose. There's a lot of depth to the story, however the pacing is slow and lacking a thread of tension to pull this reader forward at a satisfying pace.