Still I Stand: The Semideus Chronicles

by T.M. Ford

Derek always felt that there was more to his world than meets the eye. Like any other high school senior, he eagerly awaited the last, first day of school. Little did he know, this day would change everything. Beneath his typical teenage façade was a storm of self-doubt and a nagging feeling of not belonging. As it turns out, he’d been right all along. He didn’t belong here.

With the support of his friends, he is suddenly thrust into a world filled with magic, mystery, and deception. Although some of his closest friends knew about this hidden world, even they were unaware of Derek's true identity. It is now his responsibility to save not only his world, but possibly the entire universe from an ancient evil.

Can he summon the courage to overcome his fears and harness the powers within? Will his friends stand by him until the end? Join Derek on a journey through worlds as he discovers mythical creatures and powerful magic. As he battles chaos, Derek must unravel the secrets of his past and learn what it truly means to belong. This adventure will challenge everything he thought he knew—and everything he thought he was.

Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy

435 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 19, 2024

Reviews

[Desirae]

Wow that was a ride! This was a refreshing and very fast paced read. I loved reading something that isn’t really like any other fantasy out there!

[Ayanna S]

Loved this book ! It gave me all the Percy nostalgia and it felt so good to read ! So much happened left and right and the book began with an bang and reeled me in quickly ! I'm too ready to read the next book , thanks to my friend Tom for his book , you did that fam ! 😌🫶🏾

[Stef]

Still I stand is truly a wonderful book that is the perfect combination of Percy Jackson and Chronicles of Narnia for lovers of young adult adventure and fantasy. The way these characters are written, the world building, the pacing, story structure, everything was phenomenal and I absolutely devoured every page, desperately wanting more. Derek, Jonathan, Barry, Mia and Tah’quhal as well as other characters in the book have such a powerful friendship that does impact their dynamic in the book. Each dealing with their own obstacles and inner turmoil while dealing with the chaos of the world around them, while simultaneously using each of their strengths and weakness to help each other. The journey these characters go through and the battle that lies ahead after the cliffhanger at the end of the book. I am completely, utterly and irrevocably in love with this book and the world of Luminfae that I cannot wait for book 2.

[jennifer]

I just finished this young adult fantasy, and I really enjoyed it! Seeing everything unfold through Derek’s perspective made the story so engaging. His journey of discovery felt so real, and I loved how much his character grew along the way.

The pacing kept me hooked, and the mix of adventure, mystery, and emotion was spot on. Derek is such a relatable character—his reactions, struggles, and choices really pulled me into his story.

If you’re looking for a fun, exciting read with a main character you’ll definitely root for, I highly recommend this one. Already ready for the next one of the series I’m so excited!

[Lexine]

This was my first YA fantasy, and saying I enjoyed it would be the understatement of the year.

Following Derek’s journey from an ordinary high school student to discovering magic—and learning everything that comes with it—was such a fun adventure. Watching him navigate his abilities, the challenges, the friendship, and the incredible world around him made it impossible not to keep turning the pages.

This story completely pulled me in, and now I’m officially hooked. I’m more than ready to jump into book two because I need to know what happens next!

[Alexa ♡]

Still I Stand by T.M. Ford is a deeply moving journey filled with resilience, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The writing is immersive, making it impossible to put down. Throughout the novel, new relationships blossom, old bonds are tested, enemies emerge, and long-buried secrets come to light, keeping the tension high and the pages turning. This is a fantastic start to a series, and I’m impatiently waiting for book two!

[Hijabi_booklover]

Still I Stand isn’t just a book it’s an experience. T.M. Ford has crafted a story that reaches deep into your chest and holds your heart from the very first page. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s breathtaking.
The protagonist’s pain, strength, and vulnerability are so real, I felt every moment like it was my own. Their journey through trauma, identity, and reclaiming their power left me in tears more than once. This isn’t just a story about gods and power it’s about surviving what tried to break you, and standing in your truth no matter what tries to silence it.
Ford’s writing is lyrical and emotional, but never overdone. The world feels lived in, the mythology is fresh and exciting, but it’s the humanity in this book that will stay with me. It’s not often that a fantasy novel reaches this deep into the soul.
If you’ve ever felt broken, silenced, or lost read this book. It will remind you that you’re still standing too. @t.m. Ford

[Cassandra Stephens]

If you are wanting to dip your toes into the fantasy world, then Still I Stand is where you need to start. It is a great intro to fantasy.
You meet Derek, who is so relatable in every way that it just hooks you from the start. You follow him on his journey of trying to figure out why he feels different and who he really is. He gets thrust into this magical realm filled with Fae, and he just takes it in stride(few break downs along the way...but honestly who wouldn't?). He isn't alone though, he has a band of friends that he can count on to help him navigate this new world. There are new relationships formed, old ones tested, enemies made and secrets revealed.
The magic system in this world is unique and breath of fresh air! This is a fantastic start to a series and I will be patiently(not so patiently) waiting for the 2nd book!

[Haley Law]

This book was absolutely amazing!!! This book is perfect for readers at any level. The connections between the characters are so captivating. There are so many twists and turns along the way that you can't help but be sucked into the world. The magic system is so interesting. The way the different worlds and its members connect interact with each other. Seeing how Derek and his friends grow and develop with each challenge they face is so impressive to see.

I highly recommend this for those that are wanting to dip their toes into fantasy. Even if this isn't your first fantasy, it still gives you that rush of excitement where you feel the need to rush to find out what happens next.

I can't wait to see where book 2 leads us. I really need to know where everyone ends up and how things change.

[Stefanie DiDominzio]

Good storyline

This has a great storyline with a whole lot of characters. The beginning pulls you in, instantly wanting to know what is happened to Derek. I liked Derek and his journey. For me, suddenly skipping to a new dimension with new characters without warning really threw me off. I really finally wanted to read more about Derek. I was finally invested, then i was ripped to a new dimension without understanding why.
That being said, it took me a while to understand the world building. Granted there are things Derek doesn't know (until the end) but shouldn't the other characters? Maybe I wanted some more clear understanding of some things. Guess we'll see if I find those clarifications in part 2 or 3.

[Angel aka BooksnCats007]

It was easy to forget thag these characters were so young.
The pacing is very consistent, it keeps you energized and engaged, your eyes glued to the page. Or if listening, ears leaning into the audio. The descriptive writing was very enjoyable.
There is a unique magic and worlds woven in the story, with tension, angst, and at the same time, tenderness and love between the MMC and his friends.
Loved how the heroism was portrayed. Definitely leaves you satisfied and ready to read book 2.

[Sharon Greenfield]

I just completed reading Still I Stand. Can’t wait for the next book. T.M. Ford’s descriptive writing magically transported me into a realm of imagination I didn’t know I could experience. I felt as if I were there within Derek’s world watching all the action. Again, can’t wait to find out where the next book takes Derek and his friends.

[S. Lynn]

Instantly drew me in from the first page. The number of times I gasped, laughed, wanted to cry were immeasurable. T. M. Ford set out with a goal to tell a story, and he did so much more, he drew me in, I could see the world he built, the characters came to life through vision and emotion. A 10/10 must read!

[Rooster]

In my honest opinion, this is the best book for anyone wanting to read fantasy. If you have never delved into fantasy or a deep fantasy reader but need something to break a book slump, this is a great read and a truely moving book.

[Bob Toth]

TM Ford great alt universe

Great debut novel creating alternative universe of fae and monsters. Derek and his friends are pulled into this alt world and fight to protect their friends. A great adventure and can’t wait to see where this takes is in book two.

[Tyler Law]

One of the best introductory fantasies I have read. Perfect for all ages and has some of the most relatable characters I’ve ever seen in a story that crosses dimensions and worlds. If you love magic, fantasy worlds and modern characters this is perfect for you.