Kianola

by Nathan Roth

Have you ever wanted to escape your reality?

Nole is your average awkward middle schooler. Shy. Nerdy. Overlooked. The kind of boy girls ask out on dares while his crushes date his peers.

Everything changes when his dad brings home a copy of Enix, an online fantasy game full of swords, magic and monsters. In Enix, every day is an exciting adventure, the kind of place you never want to leave. But for Nole, it’s something a chance to start over.

Online, Nole transforms into someone a leader, a hero, and someone surrounded by friends. In Enix, he’s everything he’s not in the real world. For the first time, he feels like he belongs.

But no matter how amazing Enix is, it’s just a game. And at the end of the day, Nole has to log out.

What happens when the lines between two worlds blur? And how do you choose where you truly belong?

Packed with fast-paced action and heartfelt moments, this LitRPG adventure delivers thrilling battles alongside a powerful message of love, selflessness, and resilience. Imagine Ready Player One meets Diary of a Wimpy Kid, brought to life with the captivating style of Sword Art Online.

Read what people are saying about Kianola:

"Roth does a seamless job of weaving a narrative that shows friendships and romance in the real world and the gaming universe" The US Review of Books

"A compelling story about finding one's voice and learning to face life's challenges with authenticity and bravery" Reader's Favorite

"Educational and empowerment strengths aside, Kianola is quite simply a rollicking quest through self-improvement, friendship-building, and adventure" Midwest Book Review

"A messy, heartfelt exploration of adolescence, identity, and the allure of online worlds" Independent Book Review

"A must-read for middle-grade readers, young gamers, or anyone who has ever felt like they don't quite fit in" Literary Titan

"Let me tell you, this book had a hold on me, and I was the first to be surprised" Amanda

"If I could give this more than five stars I would" Sandra

"The kind of book that takes you by surprise" Alexandra

"I absolutely loved this book. It is a heartfelt ode to middle schoolers everywhere" Debbie

"I absolutely adored this story. It was so relatable even as an adult" Katie

"Looking forward to more from Mr. Roth" Angela

"I didn’t realize that I would be completely absorbed in a matter of minutes" Shannen

"Surprisingly enjoyable story, especially for someone who doesn't game" Sharon

Genres: Teen

649 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2024

Reviews

[CarlitasFox · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating tale
What an enthralling and brave story! “Kianola” is the perfect fusion of real life with fantasy. The tale revolves around Nole, an introverted child who becomes a brave fighter in a brand-new world full of myths, quests and unexpected adventures.
Nathan Roth has penned a page-turning novel with themes of friendship, courage, self-discovery and imagination. I liked the way Nole changed along the chapters, how his confidence grew and felt brave to fulfil his quest in a land where anything can happen. When I started reading, I immediately felt immersed in the character’s adventures, in the places where everything occurs and that was thanks to the writing style and description of the author. It’s a very entertaining, highly recommended novel.

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 – 4 stars
This engaging journey captures the experience of navigating two worlds, making it a compelling read for young adults. Adolescence is a time filled with unique challenges that can often feel overwhelming, particularly for those who are shy. Themes of bullying, drama, self-confidence, emerging relationships, friendships, and the complexities of school dynamics are all explored. Many young people find refuge in online gaming, and this story highlights that escape.
Noel, a typical shy boy, immerses himself in the vibrant online world of Enix, where his avatar embodies bravery and strength. Through his experiences in this game, he embarks on a valuable journey of self-discovery and personal growth. With the support of his family, Noel learns to transfer the confidence he gains in Enix into his real-life interactions, demonstrating the powerful connections between virtual experiences and personal development.

[Betsy Melano · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story about a shy boy who is working through the challenge of teenage life. Nola finds a way to “escape” from the real life challenges by creating an alternate world where Nola is has great friendships and courage to become a hero. I enjoyed reading this story with my son which brought out some discussions about life. The author did a great job creating the world and characters.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nole, an eighth-grader who’s quiet, shy, and often overlooked by his classmates, discovers an unexpected side of himself in the virtual world of Enix. In this realm, he evolves from an awkward boy into a courageous hero, confronting mythical beasts and diving headfirst into thrilling adventures. Each triumph in Enix sparks a newfound confidence in him—a spark that he carries back into the real world, where he faces relentless bullies, an unspoken crush, and the daunting everyday challenges of middle school. Yet, the central question remains: Can this digital bravery withstand the trials waiting for him beyond the screen?

In Kianola, Nathan Roth crafts a touching, resonant story centered around Nole’s journey of self-discovery. The narrative pulls you right into the life of this timid eighth-grader, making his brave virtual escapades feel familiar and surprisingly uplifting. Roth’s vivid descriptions of Enix’s fantastical realm draw you in, making it easy to imagine standing beside Nole as he learns that the victories he earns in a game may shape the way he faces his reality. What stands out in Kianola is Roth’s nuanced portrayal of gaming not as mere escapism but as a space where Nole unearths parts of himself he never knew existed. The blend of real and virtual worlds is seamless, creating a singular, compelling journey that mirrors many young people's struggles: dealing with bullies, navigating first crushes, and yearning to belong. Enix isn’t just a game; it’s a crucible where Nole's courage is tested and forged, and Roth’s heartfelt crafting of this world gives it depth and resonance. The novel doesn’t shy away from meaningful themes. It touches on identity, courage, and the quiet struggle for self-confidence that many young readers will find relatable. Roth’s approach to these themes is refreshing—he presents Nole’s challenges with honesty and a light touch, never veering into melodrama. Each of Nole’s interactions, whether with his friends, family, or himself, unfolds naturally. We see how the smallest encounters can leave a lasting impact, shaping who he becomes. Roth reminds us that courage can be found in unexpected places and that even lessons learned in fantasy worlds can hold true in real life. Roth’s writing style strikes the perfect balance: engaging, straightforward, easy to connect with, yet rich enough to make Enix come alive. He brings just the right amount of detail to keep the fantasy realm exciting while grounding the story in the genuine, relatable experiences of middle school life. The dialogue flows effortlessly, making Nole’s world feel authentic and compelling. Roth creates a fast-paced yet meaningful narrative, where readers will find themselves cheering Nole on as he learns to face his fears, whether on-screen or off.

Kianola is a must-read for middle-grade readers, young gamers, or anyone who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit in. With relatable themes, engaging storytelling, and a protagonist you can’t help but root for, this book is a wonderful recommendation. For those who have ever wondered if the courage found behind a screen can translate into real-life bravery, Kianola offers a story that might just provide an answer.

[Joanne Ellis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nathan Roth’s Kianola is a heartfelt and imaginative coming-of-age tale that masterfully intertwines the struggles of adolescence with the allure of a fantastical digital escape. For anyone who has ever found solace in a fictional world during life’s toughest moments, this book will feel like a personal journey, brimming with nostalgia and emotional resonance.

At the heart of the story is Nole, an eighth-grade introvert navigating the social minefield of middle school. Bullied and burdened with insecurities, Nole struggles to find his place in a world where he feels unseen. His refuge is Enix, a rich and immersive online fantasy realm where he transforms into Kianola, a fearless adventurer. In Enix, he discovers a sense of agency and courage that eludes him in real life. But the real question is whether the confidence and lessons he gains in this digital universe can empower him to face the challenges waiting in the real world.

Roth excels at capturing the duality of Nole’s existence. The contrast between the dull, sometimes painful realities of middle school and the vibrant, action-packed world of Enix is striking. The vivid descriptions of the game’s landscapes, quests, and characters immerse readers in Nole’s second life, making it easy to understand why he clings so tightly to this escape. At the same time, Roth sensitively portrays the real-life struggles of adolescence, from the sting of unrequited crushes to the suffocating weight of self-doubt.

Nole’s journey is not just about slaying monsters or leveling up; it’s about growth, friendship, and self-discovery. The supporting characters, both in-game and in real life, are pivotal to his transformation. His interactions with in-game allies and real-world peers show him that bravery isn’t just about defeating enemies—it’s also about being vulnerable, standing up for oneself, and finding the courage to connect with others.

What makes Kianola particularly compelling is its relatability. While set in the context of a fantasy game, the themes of identity, self-worth, and overcoming fear are universal. Roth captures the awkwardness and intensity of middle school with authenticity, ensuring that readers of all ages can empathize with Nole’s struggles and triumphs.

The pacing of the story is balanced, seamlessly shifting between Nole’s two worlds. The action-packed sequences in Enix are thrilling, but it’s the quieter, more introspective moments in the real world that give the story its emotional depth. Roth’s prose is engaging and often poignant, striking a perfect balance between humor, heartache, and hope.

Kianola is a beautiful reminder of the power of imagination and the importance of resilience. It’s a story that encourages readers to embrace their true selves and find strength in the connections they make along the way. Whether you’re a gamer, a fan of coming-of-age stories, or simply someone who enjoys a heartfelt narrative, Kianola is a journey worth taking.

[Mariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kianola
By Nathan Roth

I received a complimentary copy from Rowanvale Books and am voluntarily leaving my review.

“Kianola” by Nathan Roth is an inspiring, imaginative tale that masterfully blends the thrill of adventure with heartfelt themes of self-discovery, friendship, and courage. This story pulls you right into the journey of Nole, a shy eighth-grader who embarks on a life-changing adventure.

In real life, Nole struggles with bullies, insecurities, and navigating the challenges of middle school. But everything changes when he discovers the virtual world of Enix—a stunning digital realm filled with mythical creatures, thrilling quests, and opportunities for heroism. Here, Nole evolves from a quiet, overlooked boy into a courageous fighter, finding strengths he never knew he had.

Nathan Roth’s writing is incredibly immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring Enix to life in dazzling detail. The world-building is captivating, and Roth expertly balances action-packed moments with quieter, emotional beats that deepen the story. Nole’s transformation feels natural and relatable, as he learns that the bravery he finds in a game can help him face his fears in the real world.

What sets Kianola apart is its meaningful exploration of themes like identity, resilience, and the power of friendship. Nole’s relationships—whether with his friends, family, or himself—are written with depth and authenticity. Even his parents are portrayed as loving but imperfect, making them feel real and grounded.

The quests and battles in Enix are thrilling, but what resonates most is Nole’s growth as a person. Readers will cheer him on as he faces challenges both online and offline, discovering that courage isn’t about never being afraid—it’s about acting despite fear.

Kianola is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt unsure of their place in the world. It’s a testament to the power of imagination, the strength of friendship, and the ability to find your voice—even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you. Nathan Roth has created a truly unforgettable story that will stay with readers long after the final page. Highly recommended!

[Mia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finally! Have been reading this book for around 8 months. Yes you heard me right, I usually finish a book in a few hours or within a day, but I picked this one to try something different from what I normally read. I’m really glad I did because it turned out to be an enjoyable read. It wasn’t disappointing at all, though I did feel a few parts dragged on a bit.

With 600+ pages, the story takes its time. Some of the scenes in the game world from the book felt a bit stretched. Like scenes of “level up, new gadget” kept coming again and again. While many scenes suits well with middle school contents, other moments especially romantic ones, sometimes feel a little too mature for the character’s age.

Nole is a shy kid who struggles to find his place in his middle school. He often finds himself escaping into the online gaming universe of Enix, where he can become a playable character, connect with other gamers and join in some of the quests. But back in the real world, he’s still dealing with the challenges of bullying, his first crushes. And yet, the story doesn’t stay just on the escapism side. You can literally feel Nole’s struggle in real life when he eats his lunches alone, the jokes made at him, the moments of hope when he thinks maybe, just maybe, he can change who he is. I found myself rooting for him, wanting his game victories and also rooting for him to be courageous in real world too.

If you’re less patient with long game world sequences or if you want a story that stays strictly in the Real world, you might find some parts of the book feel unbalanced.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Kianola, we follow the journey of Nole, a young boy, and his friendships. From school lunches to fantastical in-game adventures, we witness the epic world of Enix bring them together. Through real-life insecurities and the healing power of true friendship, Kianola takes you on a roller coaster of emotions. Their friendship ebbs and flows, sometimes growing weaker, sometimes stronger, but they keep reconnecting over shared loves: games, and of course, the universal struggles of growing up.

Let me tell you, this book had a hold on me, and I was the first to be surprised. Kianola rekindled my enjoyment for young adult fiction and gave me throwbacks to my own gamer journeys.

The quests and battles were written so well, the conversations felt relatable, and the main character was so easy to root for. It reminded me of just how powerful connections forged through games can be (and how easy it is to get lost in the digital world). Yeah, maybe I'm admitting to gr that I'm just a silly lil gamer myself - but so be it.

I also enjoyed that Nole's parents were present and supportive, without being "the perfect adult that teaches you lessons through the novel". Parents are not perfect in real life, and they don't need to be in books. This is what makes it relatable. Supportive or present parents often feel completely left out in MG/YA, so this was refreshing to see.

Gamer guys and gals, this one’s for you!

(thanks to the publisher and author for the arc)

[Hannah Mcintosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kianola is a quintessential young adult novel that beautifully captures the journey of growing up and the challenges of evolving friendships. Nathan Roth has crafted a story that resonates deeply with readers, offering a realistic portrayal of the struggles and triumphs that come with adolescence.

The characters in Kianola are wonderfully realistic and relatable, making it easy to connect with their experiences and emotions. Roth paints each character with such depth that readers can see parts of themselves or people they know in them. The family dynamics in the story are endearing, showing the importance of familial support through life's ups and downs, making it more than just a book about friendships; it's a tale of the people who shape us.

What truly sets Kianola apart is its innovative concept of bringing video games to life. Roth ingeniously blurs the line between reality and virtual adventure, making for an exhilarating reading experience that feels fresh and modern. This unique twist adds excitement and captures the imagination, especially for readers who have grown up in the digital age.
Overall, Kianola is a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult fiction. It’s a heartfelt story that reminds us of the joy and complexity of friendships and family, leaving a lasting impact.

Thank you to Rowanvale Books for providing me the opportunity to read this novel. I have left my review voluntarily.

[Courtney Francesca Hudson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kianola follows Nole, a kid just trying to make it through his day to day life, navigating the harsh social world of middle school. When a new video game lets him become more of himself through its online universe, Nole makes friends and finds romance, and all the drama that comes with it.
This was a cute story, but I think it needed some work. These middle schoolers are all operating with the emotional intelligence and quick wit of grown adults. Their voices just aren't believable for being 13. There is a lot of mature and prosey dialog that doesn't fit the cast of characters.
The crossover of Kianola to real life is very abrupt and it feels like Nole's letters to her were jsut a way to wrap the story up without actually showing it happening. The scenes of the game play did not add to the plot every time, and those pages would have been better spent developing the story instead.
It's hard to say when this story was actually set. Everyone spoke like they were from the 90s but the technology definitely was not a match for that setting. It was difficult to suspend that belief for me. It's also alluded to that the new girl at school is Dapple, but this is never addressed, and it also would not make sense for her.
Overall, this has the makings of a great story, but it missed the mark for me.

[Yvonne Derrig · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Escape Within An Escape

On the surface, this book is a heartfelt coming-of-age story, but, as you read it, there are moments and messages that can (and do) resonate with those of any age. The more I read, the more drawn into Nole’s life, and the dystopian world of Enix, I became. I became so invested in the characters and their growth and the depth of understanding they had for the situations they were creating and “growing” through. Nole, as the main character, is just trying to find his place in the world while trying to find himself and love. He found his people/friends in Finn and Hurley, and later in Dapple and Kianola. I found that I could not put this 600+ page book down, but would have gladly read another 600+ pages to find out how everything works out. There are so many profound and sincere moments within this book, and it’s written so well that it was so easy for me to read this in a few hours. The one thing that continues to stick with me is something Kia told Nole, “Take me with you where you go. Whatever we do, just keep me close. And if you ever get tired of me, let me know, and let me go.” I felt this on such a deep level that I cannot let it go, it just keeps bouncing around in my brain. My only complaint is how Nathan Roth left the ending… This is the sole reason for my 4 star rating as I wanted more, but I feel like we were left hanging.

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really interesting read. It is a young person's fantasy adventure. I shared this story with my 9 year old son who is a gamer and we both enjoyed it a lot. This is a really good read. It is a story about a young boy who is quite shy and quiet in real life. He is struggling with all the problems most children do as they grow and find their way in the world. Things such as bullies, first crushes, friendships and family dramas.
But we are they introduced to the virtual world of Enix where Nole is the master of his own life and world. In this virtual world Nole is a confident adventurer who isn't scared of anything. As he over comes the challenges and quests that are in front of him in the virtual world and his confidence grows which this knew confidence find its way into his reality?

This story hit so close to home for us as my son is a gamer and very shy and quiet in everyday life. He took courage and felt like Nole was similar to him. This is the first time he has been able to relate to a character before. This is definately a story of self discovery and I really enjoyed being on the journey as Nole not only conquered things in his virtual world but also moved forward and conquered things in his reality as well. It was inspiring watching his characters growth

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nole is a typical fourteen year old boy in middle school, he has a close circle of friends and crushes on the girls in his class, but he also experiences the bad side of bullying and being shamed for his weight and unusual (for the area) clothing and lunch choices. This all changes when he gets the latest video game, Enix, an online, fantasy role playing game where he can be anyone or anything he wants to be, where he can live without all the baggage of his everyday life.

As soon as Nole starts playing with his friend, he knows he has found something special and as he makes more friends in the game, he realises that this online life is much better than his real one and so when the opportunity for new relationships arrives, Nole throws his hat in the ring for the first time. As his confidence grows, it starts to bleed into his real life, but spending so much time online had it's consequences and Nole is about to find that out the hard way.

Soon Nole has to make some big choices in both his online and real lives, but will he make the right ones, or will he succumb to the unreal instead? This is a young adult fantasy where realities collide and lessons are learned as a young man comes of age and realises what these lessons are teaching him.

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think many teenagers nowadays feel the need to escape the real world, and I applaud the author for having decided to write a story that offers them exactly this opportunity. The idea of jumping into a video game sounds fun even for me as an adult, and I loved how the characters actually seemed like real people. This is the kind of book that takes you by surprise, I can guarantee that you will keep turning the pages, just to find out what happens. The world the author has created is far from boring and I think it will help teenagers feel less anxious. I just discovered that there is an audio version of this book, listened to the sample and I highly recommend it. The voice is soothing and welcoming as well. Returning to the written version, I found Nole to be an excellent character, someone teenagers can easily relate to. After all, he wants to live in a fantasy world, where everything is possible. Don’t we all want the same thing? In my opinion, this is a must read, one which is highly enjoyable, the perfect escape. I received a free copy of this book from Rowanvale Books, but the opinion I posted is my own and not biased in any way.

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Virtual Courage Meets Real-World Growth...

Nathan Roth's middle-grade novel "Kianola" masterfully weaves together the parallel journeys of an eighth-grade gamer navigating both virtual and real-world challenges. The story follows Nole, a socially awkward teen who finds his confidence through the online fantasy game Enix, while simultaneously facing typical middle school hurdles like bullying and crushes. Roth crafts a nuanced portrayal of how gaming can serve as both escape and catalyst for personal growth.

Unlike many gaming-themed novels, "Kianola" strikes a careful balance between its fantasy gaming sequences and real-world narrative, neither demonizing nor overly glorifying video games. The presence of supportive parents and authentic middle school dynamics grounds the story, while the vibrant descriptions of the Enix world provide exciting adventure elements. This dual-world novel expertly addresses themes of identity, friendship, and self-discovery, which will appeal to both young gamers and ordinary readers. Recommended for middle-grade readers, gamers, and anyone who has experienced the difficulties of early adolescence.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roth spins a fantastical tale of young angst, love and maturation, all set withing the realm of on-line gaming. It’s a superbly cleaver avenue for teaching life lessons during those angsty tween years, when wanting to be accepted can be so difficult. As the story progresses, friends, Harley, Finn and Nole attempt to break out of their Middle School cocoons and spread their high school wings. Nole struggles most acutely with “being on the sidelines while others take center stage”. Within the video game Enix he can reinvent himself, while learning valuable life lessons such as: accountability, supporting others, goal setting, inclusivity, even love and regret. Nole aches to find that “one who asks, ‘How’s it going?’ and cares about the answer.” In spite of its length (400+ pages), I absolutely loved this book. It is a heartfelt ode to middle schoolers everywhere, using language that is perfect for that age group (and for parents who wish to better understand their fledgling teens). Brilliant concept well executed 5 stars!

[Katie Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story Kianola by Nathan Roth introduces us to Nole, a middle-schooler who is trying to find his place among his friends and peers. After a horrible day when nothing seemed to be going in his favor, and he couldn't possibly feel any less confident in himself, his father surprises him with a gift - Enix. Enix is an online mass multiplayer online game and Nole is instantly addicted. In a world where he can be whoever he wants and not receive judgement against his true self, Nole finds a tremendous amount of joy and a confidence like he'd never had inside this online fantasy world. Now to bring that confidence into his life outside of Enix.

I absolutely adored this story. It was so relatable even as an adult. It reminded me of my teenage years when I discovered medieval fantasy text-based roleplaying games. They were honestly a huge part of my life into my young adulthood because it was so immersive and a wonderful escape from real life. This story really brought back all the excitement and fun I had. I highly recommend this for all ages!

[Susan Ratchford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly can’t say enough about Nathan Roth’s Kianola. I was enamored by this book before it even began with the uniqueness of it, from the beautiful cover down to the chapter names. What I didn’t know then was how engrossed I would become. I resonated with Nole and was immediately brought back to the awkwardness that is middle school. I also wished I had a world to escape to many times and that’s how I found my love of books, and this one I never wanted to end. I was so in love with its settings, its story, and the friendships. The entire journey Nole goes through (and we go through right beside him) both emotionally and physically just feels so authentic and it’s almost inspirational. Packed with action and adventure I cannot wait to share Kianola with my own children someday. I believe everyone who sometimes feels like they don’t belong or anyone who just needs an escape (or even a little pep talk) should truly read this extraordinary book. I can’t wait to read any and every book by Nathan Roth that I can find.

[Mel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I described it to a friend as "It's awkward, early teens, trying to figure out who you are around others meets learning how to be who you want to be in the safe confines of an RPG." If you've ever wondered who you are and how you can become the person you want to be (which let's face it, we've all been there at least once in our lives) this book will resonate with you.

The author seamlessly blends real-life and a fantasy game to create a captivating setting. You get to see the characters grow and develop, learning how to develop friendships, take responsibility for their words and actions, and support each other through challenges. There are times when you want to give them advice, a hug, tell them off, and protect them.

I absolutely loved the game and music references.

While Kianola is aimed at a younger audience (early to mid teens), I feel it can be enjoyed by anyone.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy of this book.

[Jonas Heggestad · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kianola, a book that pulls you in to the life of a 13 year old boy. You get to know his struggles and joys of life. Almost as he’s trying to escape from something. I enjoy videogames myself, so reading this book brought me back to the times I was glued to a computer day in and day out in my teens. And even though the book feels a bit repetative, the plot is simple and you kinda know where things are going, I found it to be a nice read. Simple and beautiful in a way. I haven’t read this kind of book before where most of the story being told is within a videogame, but I liked how the author painted that world in a beautiful way through the characters and the visuals. For those who have played a lot of videogames before, I think this book will give them a sweet time of nostalgia. At least it did that to me.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Kianola by Nathan Roth is an engrossing fantasy adventure aimed at middle-grade aged youngsters- but I am much, much older than that and still enjoyed this story.
It is a journey of discovery/self-discovery, with friendship, family dynamics, action, bravery, challenges, messages & meaningful lessons (of courage/being brave, finding confidence, facing your fears, and being true to yourself, dealing with bullies, wanting to fit in/belong, dealing with insecurity), first crush/love interest, emotion, healing, and hope.
A story set within both the ‘real’ and ‘virtual’ world – Nole is the master of the virtual world, but will that mean anything when ‘real-world’ issues are pressing in on him. His adventure proved to be an engaging tale.
Looking forward to more from Mr. Roth.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Nathan Roth!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable and engaging YA fantasy adventure which kept me hooked throughout. Awkward introvert Nole escapes his struggles at middle school by entering an online fantasy realm. Whilst in the ‘real’ world Nole has to deal with bullies, unrequited crushes and self doubt, but in the mystical world of Enix he’s a brave adventurer. In the digital universe, Enix Nole undertakes dangerous quests in a world of mythical creatures. Nole needs to translate the confidence he’s developed in-game into his ‘real’ life. This coming of age story is full of self-discovery, friendships, perilous quests and online fantasy worlds. The descriptive narrative brings the mystical realm of Enix vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline. Nole is a likeable and relatable character and I felt invested in his journey in both worlds.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read a few books by this author, but this one was a little different than the others. The cover drew me in initially, and the synopsis sounded quite interesting. I didn’t realize that I would be complete absorbed in a matter of minutes. This is a coming-of-age story combined with gaming which meant it was right up my alley. Almost everyone can relate to the awkwardness of growing up and feeling like you’re out of place. It is a really cool concept to take your gamer/screen persona and apply those positive traits to your real life. What stands out to me is the exploration of friendship and self-discovery. Nole’s relationships in-game and in real life drive his growth. Seeing his friendships evolve, showing the importance of support, understanding, and learning to trust others was beautifully done. I highly recommend this for everyone!

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wasn't sure what to expect starting this book, only knowing that the premise included a teenage gamer. What I found was a surprisingly enjoyable story, especially for someone who doesn't "game"- I was still able to follow the storyline and appreciate how detailed the author was on the quests he took the characters on.

Having two young children (younger than Noel, the main character, and his classmates), I really appreciated the perspective of a young teenager's struggles to fit in and find your people. Nole's journey as a person in his gaming world and in the real world offered the reader someone to relate to, whether it be his relationship struggles or not wanting to hurt his mom's feelings by not wanting the same tuna sandwich every single day, I really think most young readers will find something to connect to.

[Anantha Rusum · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me of the movie “Ready Player One”, with a lot more emphasis on character building and relationships. Nole, a shy eight grader, often overlooked by his classmates, finds himself in a new Avatar in a virtual world of Enix. In the new world, he is a courageous hero who is up for facing any type of dangerous challenge like confronting a mythical beast or going on a thrilling adventure. Each victory gives him a confidence, which uplifts him to face the bullies in his real life. But is it really enough? Real life has a lot of unforeseen complications, the currents are harsh and unpredictable. This uplifting story of this young boy who embarks on a path of self-discovery with the support of his parents is truly heartwarming. I really loved this book and I am also recommending this book to my middle grader.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a brilliant, well written story that reflects what a lot of kids go through these days, and what a lot of us have already experienced previously. It really hones in on what it is like to be a “nerd”, having to navigate life. I loved the way the author built on game play and a fantasy world, weaving it into a story that is so relatable and accurate.
This was a much longer book than I was expecting but it was perfect for the story the author was trying to tell. The world and story building was creative and imaginative. I was drawn into the story and found myself getting completely lost within this world the author had created. Even though the MC was younger, it didn’t detract from the story and I still found myself engaging with it. This is a brilliant book that I would highly recommend.

[Tara Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kianola is a YA Fantasy full of adventure, friendship, bravery, self-discovery, action, family dynamics, emotion, and facing your fears. The story centers around a middle schooler named Nole, who is often overlooked because he is shy and a bit of a nerd. The story combines real life with the fantasy world of online games. In the real world Nole is a bit of an introverted child but when he discovers an online fantasy game, he becomes a hero, a leader and someone that people look up to. The character of Nole is one that a lot of people can relate to, especially when they feel awkward, out of place, and like they do not fit in. Sometimes it feels easy to escape into an alternate reality where you are the hero of your own story. There was great character development as Nole changed through the story and experienced great personal growth on his journey of self-discovery.

[Lucinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nole is a shy and awkward young adolescent who often feels overlooked and occasionally bullied by his peers. He struggles to navigate school and life in general. To help him, his father buys him access to Enix, an online gaming portal that transforms Nole into an adventurous hero. Now, his days are marked by the anticipation of escaping reality and diving back into the game.

Through Enix, Nole finds friends and discovers a newfound confidence that positively impacts his everyday life.

Although I am not a gamer, I found "Kianola" to be very well written. I was captivated by the fantastic descriptions of the fantasy world and the contrasting experiences of Nole's virtual adventures and his real life. Nole's personal growth felt authentic and organic within the story.

Even though this book is aimed at young adults, I am well past that stage and thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Shadel ayerbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kianola by Nathan Roth is a great young adult fantasy book

Nole is a typical middle schooler who is awkward. While his crushes date his friends, the guy females ask him out on a dare. When his father brings home a copy of Enix, an online fantasy game with swords, magic, and monsters, everything changes. You never want to leave Enix since every day is a wonderful adventure. For Nole, however, it represents more than just a new beginning. Online, Nole changes into a different person—a hero, a leader, and a friend. He is all that he is not in the real world in Enix. He feels like he belongs for the first time. However, Enix is only a game, regardless of how fantastic it is. Furthermore, Nole must ultimately leave the game

Every page was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. The story really brings excitement into your life. I couldn’t put the book down.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

An authentic and enjoyable reading for young adult.

''Kianola'' is an authentic and enjoyable reading for young adults. This fantasy-filled book will take you on a journey to discover an online fantasy realm, a world where Nole, the main character, can be someone different, a brave boy with interesting adventures that can be the key to overcoming the shy boy he meets in the real world. This is a refreshing read for anyone looking for an entertaining read; even though it is rated for young adults, I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good read. With an interesting plot, the story is well crafted and has an amazing description of the online world, which you will enjoy.