Deltora Quest

Deltora Quest #1-8

by Emily Rodda

'Deltora Quest' series tells he story of three companions - Leif, Barda and Jasmine - who are on a perilous quest to find the seven lost gems of he Belt of Deltora, Only when the belt is complete will the evil Shadow Lord and his rule of tyranny be overcome. This best-selling series of eight books is set in the fantasy world of Deltora, a sprawling kingdom of magic and monsters, bordered by the sea and a vast, curving mountain range, beyond which is unknown territory called the Shadowland. An appealing aspect of these books is the series of brainteasers, puzzles, clues and mysteries that the adventurers must solve to fulfil the quest. This bind-up presents all eight stories in one volume.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Childrens, Middle Grade, Young Adult, Adventure, High Fantasy

736 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Emily Rodda (real name Jennifer Rowe) was born in Sydney, Australia and graduated from the University of Sydney in 1973 with an MA (Hons) in English Literature. Moving into a publishing career, first as a book editor, and finally as a publisher at Angus & Robertson, Rodda's first book was published in 1984.

Reviews

[Tina➹ lives in Fandoms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Complete 5 Golden Stars

1) The Forests of Silence: ★★★(★)/5
2) The Lake of Tears: ★★★★★/5
3) City of the Rats: ★★★★/5
4) The Shifting Sands: ★★★(★)/5
5) Dread Mountain: ★★★★★/5
6) The Maze of the Beast: ★★★★(★)/5
7) The Valley of the Lost: ★★★★★/5
8) Return to Del: ★★★★★/5


these 8 books of Deltora quest is always one of my selection for the Comfort read (though I had to stop myself not to re-read them too soon, so I'll definitely forget some stuff), I always finished them in 8 days, one every day.
quick enjoyable read
middle grade
in another world (high fantasy)
great characters
Nostalgic cute adventurous read of my teen years

[Catherine Austen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read these with my kids, and they later read them on their own (at least twice). It's a great fantasy series, gripping and imaginative, with lovable characters - a boy, a girl, and a man - who risk their lives to do what's right. Rodda is one of the best writers of fantasy adventure for young readers. There are few books I've seen my kids so enthralled by (and I liked them, too, though I'm not a big fantasy fan). Start with this series; the books are shorter and simpler than either Rowan of Rin or the later Deltora series (Shadowlands and Dragons). But get the single volumes rather than this bindup - easier to hold and read one at a time.

They can be gory, FYI. But that happens when you're seeking out and fighting evil monsters. Also, cliffhangers abound, so be warned: if you're reading this at bedtime to your child, they will not let you leave easily. My youngest son actually wailed, "But I can't survive if I don't know what happens!" If your child is reading them on his own, you'll have to unscrew the lightbulbs in his bedroom or he'll be up past midnight.

[April (Aprilius Maximus) · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of my reviews are spoiler free (unless stated otherwise) so you can go ahead and read my review!

Not many people have heard of this incredible series because Emily Rodda is an Australian children’s author, but oh my goodness, this series has to get out there because it’s that good. I re-read this series almost every year and each time, I can’t believe the amount of world building, plot development and character development has gone into it. Yes, this is a children’s series, but it’s like Harry Potter, something you can read at any age and enjoy. It has 8 books in the series and has two other companion series (Deltora Shadowlands and Dragons of Deltora) which both follow the same main characters as the first series. I highly recommend all three because HOLY DAMN the first series is JUST THE BEGINNING. SO MUCH THOUGHT has gone into this world and how it was all going to pan out that it just falls together perfectly and leaves you with the most satisfying endings EVER.

A quick summary:

This story follows Lief, a sixteen year old boy, who has been sent on a journey to save the land of Deltora. Years before, the evil shadowlord managed to steal the belt of Deltora, a magical belt made up of 7 gems that together, help to rid their land of evil. The shadowlord took the seven gems and scattered them throughout the land in the most dangerous of places, places people don’t dare to go. The belt will only work if the heir to the throne wears it, so as well as finding the gems and facing terrifying places and creatures, they also have to find the heir, who has supposedly been in hiding since the shadowlord took over. Lief is accompanied by Barda, a former palace guard and they meet Jasmine along the way, a kickass character in my opinion! And together they face what nobody has faced before, all to save Deltora!

BAM! This world is so epic and so different to anything I’ve ever read before, and I just wish more people knew about it. It’s just so flipping good. The characters are so intriguing and well rounded, you feel like you know them, that you’re friends with them and you just feel all the things they feel. Emily Rodda, you are a dang genius if you ask me! The twists and turns (especially at the end holy crap) were INSANE and BRILLIANT and just… GAH! This is the series that got me into reading when I was 10 years old, and this (alongside Harry Potter of course) was what I grew up with (as did many Australian kids). At first I thought this series was just for boys (before I read it, of course) but DAMN I was wrong because this is an EPIC fantasy series for all ages and genders! I highly, HIGHLY recommend this series. Please check it out and SPREAD THE WORD! Okay, I think I’m done raving now.

[Jaimey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, yes, this is a book for ages 8-14. I actually bought this book for my little sisters some time ago. To this day, my sisters are still raving on about how good the book is. Its been a couple of years now, so I decided I had to give it a whirl.

The book is 8 short fantasy stories about a heroic trio - a blacksmith's son, a wild and brash forest girl and a palace guard - trying to save the land of Deltora from the evil Shadow Lord. Its a fantastic book for kids. Firstly, it doesn't have any wizards or any wizard schools. Nor does it have vampires or werewolves. Instead, there are intelligent puzzles, plenty of codes for kids to decipher and some unique monsters and races. Some of the monsters are scary (according to my sisters), mainly due to their ugliness. There's also some simple red herrings and plot twists, and some scenes that don't make sense until later in the story. Its all steeped heavily in a great fantasy setting with some hints of some nice world building.

Thankfully, there's no stupid love affairs or any adult themes in these books, which was refreshing. All in all, some decent unique and intelligent children's fantasy. If you've ever thought of getting someone a fantasy book from the preteens section, I would say these books would be a nice choice.

[Madeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Look, I first read Deltora Quest many moons ago. I've held it dearly in my heart for all the years since, and as I expected, upon re-reading it as an adult, I only hold it dearer.

One of the reasons why I still enjoy middle-grade novels as a Not-Middle-Grader, is the lack of a need for, nor attempt at, literary perfection. They're just enjoyable. The plot of Deltora Quest moves at a pace that I can only describe as wonderful. The eight novels themselves are short, they go through the rhythms of conflict, climax, and resolution without need for fanciful input, leaping instead from interest to interest, holding my attention the entire time.
The characters, too, are varied and interesting, unexpected and intriguing, and they exist in a world so well developed by Rodda. As compared to adult fantasy, I was so thrilled that I never had to sit through days of walking and talking, only for the sake of developing characters and relationships. Rodda is just capable enough to get that in with the action.

Speaking of Rodda's capabilities, I found myself at 18 years old, just as amazed and surprised by the twists in the stories as I was at 9. I remembered more of the stories than I thought I did, but, after all, nine years have passed; I'd forgotten most of the details, and all for the better, because I got to live it all again.

Truly, I have no complaints about Deltora Quest. They're incredibly entertaining, set in a fascinating world (ready for the dragons!!!!) and they utilise a brilliant cast of characters. Particularly with regard to Lief, Barda, and Jasmine; across 8 books they never annoyed me. Not one of them, not even once. A feat. And Doom! Wrapping this up to go read Deltora Quest 2 and read all about these wonderful characters again!

End of the day, if you enjoy fantasy, read Deltora Quest. I promise, it's worth it. I don't care if you're an adult. Everyone likes middle-grade stories. They're fun and easy and wild, and Deltora Quest is no exception.

[Midnight*Blue · Rating 4 out of 5]

میدونم که نسبت به سایر اثار در ژانر خودش ممکنه کمی سطح پایین و شاید حتی بچگانه باشه
ولی نثر بسیااار روان . گیرا و جذابی داره که باعث شده تا حالا چهار بار بخونمش!!
یه فانتری لذت بخش و خاطره انگیز :)))

[Bahar · Rating 3 out of 5]

رمان نوجوان بسیار بسیار فانتزی و تخیلی و قشنگیه برای رده سنی ده تا چهارده سال میتونه باشه. برای بهار ده ساله کتابی بود که تخیلم رو پرورش داد ولی برای بهار هیجده ساله فقط نوستالژی کودکی هاشه

[Shadowalex · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series that I have read as a kid, and reread again brings back many memories of my childhood. This book was among my favorite fantasy books just because of the creativity and magical world of Deltora. The characters are lovably and you really become attached to them. The best part of this 8 book series, is really all about the imaginative creatures, environment, and people are just amazing. I really liked how there were many conflicts going on at the same time, but it wasn't chaotic and eventually all lined up together in one thrilling adventure. For example, while traveling together, our heroes have to collect gems to socket into the Deltora Belt and with it and a heir of the King of Deltora, Adin, can wear it and dispel the Shadow Lord back into the Shadow Land and stop his evil in Deltora.

[caiseeᡣ᭡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deltora Quest was one of those books that people sneered at while I read them. But I shit you not, they were one of the best series I've ever read- and after I read them Harry Potter, I will read these to my children. And the illustrations on all the covers are just amazingly detailed. Holy crap.

[Sam Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know if I'm giving this five stars out of sentimentality (I don't think I am), but I kind of had an emotional breakdown and devoured all 736 pages of this omnibus volume in 24hrs. I really believe this holds up as a solid fantasy book. Obviously I aged out of the target demographic about 10 years ago, and so the story-telling is simpler than I remember, but Emily Rodda remains an incredibly talented world-builder, with a penchant and flair for bright coloured characters, cities and landscapes that nourish my imagination. In this, they are exactly the way I remember. As a child, I breathed in whole worlds from these books - they they let me run wild and slay foul monsters, explore enchanted cities, and above all, promised me that a band of tenacious friends with good hearts (and occasional help from an ancient magic gemstone belt) will always come out over evil. If these books are "simple", as I have written, then that is a strength, not a shortcoming. The sense of calm, reassurance and wonder I got from reading these tales is exactly why we read children fantasy stories. It is also why stressed adults may be inclined to pull them off the shelves of their childhood bedrooms every so often. I think I got what I was looking for for in this book.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Rodda's Deltora Quest series will always hold a special place in my heart, for igniting my passion for reading and the Fantasy genre.

The eight books follow Leif, Barda and Jasmine (along with Filli and Kree), as they journey to the most feared places of Deltora (e.g. The City of the Rats etc.) to retrieve the lost gems of the Belt of Deltora, the only force strong enough to drive the Shadow Lord out of Deltora and back to the Shadowlands.
The eighth book, Return to Del was essentially about finding the heir, and had quite a few unexpected plot twists I definitely did not see coming the plot twist that Leif was the heir to the throne or that Doom was Jasmine's father! .

Overall, Deltora Quest is an amazing, intelligent and exciting fantasy book by one of Australia’s best fantasy writers.

[Eleanor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Rodda, my favourite author while growing up, has created a world filled with monsters and magic worth reading no matter your age

I read this when I was younger, as they were published. Nothing compared to it at the time. To this day it is my most treasured fantasy series, followed by Eragon and The Potion Master.

Her riddles, magic, gripping story line and amazing characters always made the books impossible to put down. Every chapter had a cliffhanger, the final chapter no exception. I loved this book and am astonished to see how small it was compared to how big the story is.

I love this series. Simply buy it, from the incredible cover art to detailed and weaving story within, it is impossible to regret reading this book.

[Trey Weller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deltora Quest by Emily Rodda is one of the formative fantasy experiences of my childhood. Really one long novel split into an eight-part serial, Deltora has it all: action, suspense, romance (just a pinch), vivid locales, riddles aplenty, and twists and turns galore. I read the whole thing in a prolonged gulp back in 2002, and it has stayed with me ever since. It's an absolute treasure that not enough people know about. A true children's classic-- and one that appeals to adults, too.

[Ellanore]

no rating for my reread of this middle school classic, but i thoroughly enjoyed revisiting it :) it will definitely be one to read aloud someday.

[Lily Malone · Rating 4 out of 5]

So my two boys, now aged 11 and 9, and have read and loved Deltora Quest, and have the three series in hardcover. My 9 year old has caught the Deltora bug from his brother and this time I decided I'd take a look too and see what I thought... and I've had a great time of it in the Deltora world.
I enjoyed the struggles of Leif, Barda and Jasmine, and I specially warmed to Jasmine during the story. Her pluck and her daring make her a great female lead, especially for youngsters reading this book (and double especially for young boys reading it!) Jasmine can and does do anything!
There was growth, especially for Leif, in his growing awareness of how he views others and the world around him as he explores it. He becomes less judgemental and more forgiving and perceptive, for how others think and act.
My only let down really is in the very end pages, with the big action scenes and the showdown with the Shadow Lord. I expected more from the Shadow Lord after all the build-up. He's a little like the Sauron character in Mordor - more of an overarching threat or nightmare than anything real.
I will say that the twist at the end lost me. Without giving spoilers, I had to read the paragraph to do with Endon and (gentle) Jarred many, many times, and it still doesn't make sense to me. Anyway - congratulations to Emily Rodda on a great series. I didn't even know she was an Australian author until reading the imprint just now!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So cosy!! Valley of the Lost a true banger.

[Raha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

My childhood, simply put. I adored this series, and have fond memories of my father returning every week or so with a new book from the series; I loved finding out what gem was on the side of the new book, and all the plot twists and mind puzzles that the books were filled with. There are many similar elements in other fantasy creations, but I think Deltora Quest was the best at it; the characters were better, the twists more exciting, and the monsters and creatures really creative and inspiring. I loved the character of Jasmine and her wild, at times ruthless, attitude, and the irritable yet lovable Barda. I think this book is good for all kinds of children- for the kids who love books already, and for kids who might not like reading. My favorites in particular is the lake of tears (sentimental value as it was the first I read), the city of rats (because Noradz's history was so fascinating and intriguing) and the valley of the lost (because all those puzzles made my childish brain feel stimulated and excited). I also enjoyed how the follow up series' built on this series; how the characters move forward once the enemy has been defeated and the happy ending wears off.

I still continue to force this series on any child who will listen. It's worth it everytime :)

[Siona Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

2023 review: really liked rereading this. I wouldn’t say I’m out of my reading slump but it still was a lot of fun. Great middle grade fantasy.

Old review: This is one of my favorite series, and impacted my writing a lot when I was younger. I definitely thing this should be a more widely read series (and I think it could even be studied in school for story structure/formula, because the writing is kinda formulaic).

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely obsessed with this book series, I read them all when I was just six. This series has good elements, including, but not limited to, well written and relatable characters, an exciting and quick paced plot, remarkable riddles, and funny happenstances. I thoroughly enjoy this book series every time I read it, and it is without a doubt my favorite book. I highly recommend it.

[Kat!e Larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books are a fun, exciting adventure that I never get tired of. I've read them at least ten times and loved them every time.

[Matthew Sampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first Deltora Quest series is one of my formatives—the books I read as a child that shaped my reading tastes. I remember hunting through the children's section at libraries across the district, searching for the more elusive chapters in the series. Dread Mountain is the first one I read and the one I still love the best. The Maze of the Beast is more unfamiliar because it was hardest to hunt down. The Forests of Silence, The Lake of Tears and City of the Rats were likewise difficult to find, if my memory serves me right. The Shifting Sands I read over and over because I found it so often in the libraries. I remember being disturbed by the Guardian's creatures in The Valley of the Lost to the point where I refused to read it again. And Return to Del still makes my hair stand on end.

It's been years since I've read a Deltora Quest book. (I'm not counting the first book of Deltora Shadowlands, Cavern of The Fear, which I read back in December 2016.) My tastes have shifted since then; the series is for a younger audience, I'm well aware. But as I look back, I recognise influences from Deltora Quest on my own writing. Magical gems and crystals were a hallmark of my early stories. The polypan from The Maze of the Beast—a creature I'd completely forgotten by the time of this reread—formed the inspiration for a character I created several years ago. Perhaps the most important gift the Deltora Quest series gave me was a love of epic fantasy and a desire to write in this genre.

I'm glad this isn't the first time I read this book, because if I read it now, without the perspective of my childhood, I would have rated it lower than I have. This rating is from my younger self, for the entertainment I received as a child; and the rating is also from my older self. For the memories. For the way this series has influenced me over the years. I don't expect the author to read this review, but I want to thank Emily Rodda for writing Deltora Quest.

[Mateus Goethe · Rating 4 out of 5]

A primeira série de livros que li na vida, e tenho um carinho muito especial com ela. Deltora é o estereótipo da Austrália cheia de criaturas esquisitas e cada passo te leva pra um lugar desconhecido que pode te matar (a autora é australiana).

Acho que foi ela que me trouxe a paixão pelo conceito "precisamos recuperar as X coisas espalhadas pelo mundo" num mundo de fantasia medieval com reis e monstros.

Pouquíssimo romance (sinto falta), MUITA reviravolta, sempre uma aventura pra enfrentar algum plano maligno do Senhor das Sombras. Dá quase pra dizer que essa série é um jogo de aventura e puzzle, cujas as soluções explodiam minha cabecinha de 13 anos.

Cada livro desce fácil que nem água, ainda releio de vez em quando. Que bênção ter conhecido essa série na adolescência!

[Meitswhatever · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always timeless and nostalgic, I love this series. While it might be aimed at younger folks, even as an adult I still enjoy this. The plot twists feel believable, if a tiny bit cliche sometimes, but I still love them. I also think reading the books all in one volume is the best way to do it, at least for me, since they are so small as individual books. If you haven't yet tried this series, I highly recommend it.

[Caleb Berlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed my life in Year 5. The plot is very interesting and suspense is well obtained. The novel is definitely meant for tweens because the writing and purpose of the book isn't highly sophisticated, but I still found myself invested and shocked despite this and having read it all before.

[Daniela · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is good stuff! I remember reading these books as a child (mostly because my best friend adored them) and being scared to death by the vivid monster descriptions. Still a fan!

[S.Esquivias · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nothing much to say, but this was read a long time ago when in middle school.

[ashlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

rating this as what it is, a children's book

BUT i absolutely loved revisiting this series as an adult. so nostalgic and fun, i enjoyed this SO much more than i expected to!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my eras tour lol
🩶💚💙💛🤍❤️💜

[bryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is my favorite fantasy series of all time idgaf if it's for ten year olds i was screaming laughing crying it has charming characters and so much gore and a perfect ending and the greatest plot twist of all time and it made me who i am today and love it so much