What do you think?
Rate this book
The Third Coin
ASIN B00LRZD022 moved to the most recent edition
Brilliant, Bea Brightman is one of the popular girls or Top Pops as she calls them. After attending seven schools in as many years, she’s a master at making friends. That is until her father, a world-renowned archaeologist, moves them to New York City to pursue an ever-elusive coin. There she meets the mysterious and decidedly unpopular Nisha Lakewood who may hold the key to finding it.
Nisha Lakewood is a "Not Pop" who doesn’t fit in anywhere. At school it’s rumored that she’s a witch able to make children fly. Yet at home, her fortuneteller Aunt finds her disappointingly normal. But as Nisha approaches her thirteenth birthday, things begin to change. The magic she never believed she had is suddenly showing up when she least expects it and the nosy new girl, Bea Brightman, is on to her secret.
When Bea and Indy, a boy from the neighborhood, decide to pay Nisha’s Aunt a visit, it sets the three off on an unforeseen adventure that includes a prophecy, an unbreakable oath and one incredible coin.
The Third Coin, has been described as “fun, funny, inventive, with delightful characters and plot twists that will surprise you.” According to Kirkus Reviews, it is a “fantasy novel for young readers that blends classic Arthurian legends with a teen drama…the quest-driven plot will keep young fantasy fans engaged.”
Brilliant, Bea Brightman is one of the popular girls or Top Pops as she calls them. After attending seven schools in as many years, she’s a master at making friends. That is until her father, a world-renowned archaeologist, moves them to New York City to pursue an ever-elusive coin. There she meets the mysterious and decidedly unpopular Nisha Lakewood who may hold the key to finding it.
Nisha Lakewood is a "Not Pop" who doesn’t fit in anywhere. At school it’s rumored that she’s a witch able to make children fly. Yet at home, her fortuneteller Aunt finds her disappointingly normal. But as Nisha approaches her thirteenth birthday, things begin to change. The magic she never believed she had is suddenly showing up when she least expects it and the nosy new girl, Bea Brightman, is on to her secret.
When Bea and Indy, a boy from the neighborhood, decide to pay Nisha’s Aunt a visit, it sets the three off on an unforeseen adventure that includes a prophecy, an unbreakable oath and one incredible coin.
The Third Coin, has been described as “fun, funny, inventive, with delightful characters and plot twists that will surprise you.” According to Kirkus Reviews, it is a “fantasy novel for young readers that blends classic Arthurian legends with a teen drama…the quest-driven plot will keep young fantasy fans engaged.”
336 pages, ebook
First published July 12, 2014
102 people are currently reading
1360 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Howard
2 books34 followersJ. A. Howard is a New York based author, podcaster and executive coach and business consultant. Howard is a lifelong fan of fantasy, science fiction and YA fiction. Her aspiration is to write the books she always wanted to read as a middle grader and teen. She is also advocate for the healthy development and empowerment of young women and equality for all women.
Her podcast, Sisters Cracking Up, which she cohosts with her real life sister, psychotherapist Abby Rodman, is a honest and humorous look at the challenges of midlife and can be found at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Her podcast, Sisters Cracking Up, which she cohosts with her real life sister, psychotherapist Abby Rodman, is a honest and humorous look at the challenges of midlife and can be found at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 27, 2019
Publishing Date: June 2014
Publisher: Apple Isalnd Press
ISBN:9781500550912
Genre: Fantasy/ YA
Rating: 4.4/5
Review: A very intricately crafted novel that is surprising in delivery with an attuned sense of creative intent. That surprise may have to do (in part) to the Scooby Doo cover art coupled with the Publisher’s Description lending itself to teens flouncing about with one-dimensional interest.
Bea is a superbly written character and draws you in with her focus on the mundane and insightful commentary. A great role model for kids yearning to be comfortable and at peace with who they are without regard. Inter-scholastic pressures not withstanding, the story line takes a comfortable turn into the fantastic and immediately pulls the reader into rooting for the home team. Meanwhile there is this constant build of uneasiness coupled with moments of positive interaction and clarity. This is very intelligent writing that keeps the reader yearning for mystery while providing a comfortable base in the form of family and friendship.
A few bad reviews rounds out what is considered generally favorable by the Goodreads crowd. There was nothing consistent in their dislike of the novel that I could find. One reviewer said there were plot holes everywhere but I think she meant “pot holes” as I could not discern the holes that she was referencing. Sure there are impossible events but this is a work of fantasy. “Preachy writing style” and “Annoying parts” are also referenced without elaboration. Yet I suppose the author deserves this kind of coverage as she rates reviews without content as well (“Becoming” by Micheal Obama).
All in all, a read I looked forward to every night. The ending hints at continuance so lets see if the characters continue to grow.
Publisher: Apple Isalnd Press
ISBN:9781500550912
Genre: Fantasy/ YA
Rating: 4.4/5
Review: A very intricately crafted novel that is surprising in delivery with an attuned sense of creative intent. That surprise may have to do (in part) to the Scooby Doo cover art coupled with the Publisher’s Description lending itself to teens flouncing about with one-dimensional interest.
Bea is a superbly written character and draws you in with her focus on the mundane and insightful commentary. A great role model for kids yearning to be comfortable and at peace with who they are without regard. Inter-scholastic pressures not withstanding, the story line takes a comfortable turn into the fantastic and immediately pulls the reader into rooting for the home team. Meanwhile there is this constant build of uneasiness coupled with moments of positive interaction and clarity. This is very intelligent writing that keeps the reader yearning for mystery while providing a comfortable base in the form of family and friendship.
A few bad reviews rounds out what is considered generally favorable by the Goodreads crowd. There was nothing consistent in their dislike of the novel that I could find. One reviewer said there were plot holes everywhere but I think she meant “pot holes” as I could not discern the holes that she was referencing. Sure there are impossible events but this is a work of fantasy. “Preachy writing style” and “Annoying parts” are also referenced without elaboration. Yet I suppose the author deserves this kind of coverage as she rates reviews without content as well (“Becoming” by Micheal Obama).
All in all, a read I looked forward to every night. The ending hints at continuance so lets see if the characters continue to grow.
November 5, 2019
I stumbled across this book at the library and adored the cover. The story itself is a fun MG adventure, with some magic and a unique take on the Arthurian legend. I found the writing a bit stiff in places, but those places became fewer and farther between as the story progressed. A couple of spots showed some character inconsistencies, but overall good story telling and solid writing with characters that are well-developed and likable and a rich story world. Definitely one of those books I liked more and more the further I got into it, and by the end was quite looking forward to a sequel--which, it looks like isn't published yet and I can't find any indication it will be any time soon. That said, the story closes off well enough that it's worth reading as a standalone.
My YA fantasy series:
book 1
book 2
book 3
My YA fantasy series:
book 1
book 2
book 3
February 13, 2016
The first part of this book really sucked me in. I just loved it to bits, even well before things started to get moving with the magical parts of the plot. I felt an immediate connection with the protagonist, Bea, who was very interesting. That feeling doubled when she met Nisha, and I really liked the way the friendship was handled, and the personalities of those two.
As the book goes on, there's a connection to Avalon and Arthurian legend, so I had some squee moments here and there when that started to unfold. As an adult reader, I sometimes have a bit of trouble completely buying into plots where "chosen" or pre-destined children set out to save the world... But overall, I was charmed by the novel and found it hard to put down... Almost a 5-star book for me. (And, it could probably be turned into a good film, too.)
This is an indy publication. The editing is good, aside from a few typos missed in copy-edit, and there's something wonky about the chapter header format. I obtained this on a Kindle free giveaway day... And yes, I'm way outside the target demographic for this book.
As the book goes on, there's a connection to Avalon and Arthurian legend, so I had some squee moments here and there when that started to unfold. As an adult reader, I sometimes have a bit of trouble completely buying into plots where "chosen" or pre-destined children set out to save the world... But overall, I was charmed by the novel and found it hard to put down... Almost a 5-star book for me. (And, it could probably be turned into a good film, too.)
This is an indy publication. The editing is good, aside from a few typos missed in copy-edit, and there's something wonky about the chapter header format. I obtained this on a Kindle free giveaway day... And yes, I'm way outside the target demographic for this book.
November 7, 2015
Arthurian Magic
This is a charming story woven around the legends of King Arthur. The characters are full of life, with the insecurities and inconsistencies of 13 year olds well displayed. The plot has magical elements, cliff hanging developments, and excellent clues for the satisfying denouement. It would be enjoyed by all ages who enjoy fantasy.
This is a charming story woven around the legends of King Arthur. The characters are full of life, with the insecurities and inconsistencies of 13 year olds well displayed. The plot has magical elements, cliff hanging developments, and excellent clues for the satisfying denouement. It would be enjoyed by all ages who enjoy fantasy.
November 7, 2014
You writing style is enticing. I love the characters and the plot. The references to Avalon are perfect. Nisha is my favorite. I would love to read any sequels or other books by you. Thank you for the givaway
October 14, 2018
This book had me from the first page. I am reading it before I read it to my children and I can already tell that they will love it!
January 3, 2016
A lovely middle-grade fantasy novel about family, friendship, and magic. I highly recommend this read.
May 20, 2019
This was an excellent story. I had a hard time putting it down.
While Rick Riordan seems to have the market down on the gods and the demi-gods, J.A. Howard has opened up a new door to the Mists of Avalon/King Arthur world for young adults. What makes this series unique is that J.A. Howard focuses on young girls taking the lead in this story.
We see the caste system inside a girl's school between the popular girls (Top Pops), almost popular girls (Almost Pops), the girls that focus on their expertise (i.e. science, musical talents, etc.), and then the outcasts. Bea, being new to the school, has got the Top Pops down and quickly works her way into the popular group. In her science class, she is teamed up with Nisha, the gypsy girl.
Nisha lives across the street from Bea. Her Aunt Faye runs a Fortune Teller shop. She tries to stay hidden and out of sight from the Horribles (i.e. the Top Pops) because they like to bully her. So when Bea discovers that she can communicate with Nisha without saying words, a door opens for them to become friends.
Which leads us to The Third Coin. Along with the weird skateboarder boy that tends to stalk the front of Bea's haunted mansion, they set off on a doomsday adventure. They have until their 13th birthday (Bea and Nisha share the same birthday) to find the Third of Five Coins (the Coin that balances the other 4 coins) and return it to Avalon.
No story is complete without a bad guy following them around, trying to thwart them, and important secrets that are meant to be revealed as the story progresses.
This adventure was so much fun to read. What I enjoyed the most were the strong female characters. I loved seeing a popular girl that is intelligent, loves science and books. I also loved the emotional side of Nisha. She is fearful, because she knows she is different. But a good friend will fight to be the light in that darkness. And then there's Indy. I loved that the author chose that name, because it says a lot about the character. He's like a younger version of Indiana Jones, so you know the story is going to be good (especially if you are a huge Indiana Jones fan). He is the person that binds the two girls together.
I highly recommend this book if you love Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series or J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter. I can't wait for the next books in the series.
While Rick Riordan seems to have the market down on the gods and the demi-gods, J.A. Howard has opened up a new door to the Mists of Avalon/King Arthur world for young adults. What makes this series unique is that J.A. Howard focuses on young girls taking the lead in this story.
We see the caste system inside a girl's school between the popular girls (Top Pops), almost popular girls (Almost Pops), the girls that focus on their expertise (i.e. science, musical talents, etc.), and then the outcasts. Bea, being new to the school, has got the Top Pops down and quickly works her way into the popular group. In her science class, she is teamed up with Nisha, the gypsy girl.
Nisha lives across the street from Bea. Her Aunt Faye runs a Fortune Teller shop. She tries to stay hidden and out of sight from the Horribles (i.e. the Top Pops) because they like to bully her. So when Bea discovers that she can communicate with Nisha without saying words, a door opens for them to become friends.
Which leads us to The Third Coin. Along with the weird skateboarder boy that tends to stalk the front of Bea's haunted mansion, they set off on a doomsday adventure. They have until their 13th birthday (Bea and Nisha share the same birthday) to find the Third of Five Coins (the Coin that balances the other 4 coins) and return it to Avalon.
No story is complete without a bad guy following them around, trying to thwart them, and important secrets that are meant to be revealed as the story progresses.
This adventure was so much fun to read. What I enjoyed the most were the strong female characters. I loved seeing a popular girl that is intelligent, loves science and books. I also loved the emotional side of Nisha. She is fearful, because she knows she is different. But a good friend will fight to be the light in that darkness. And then there's Indy. I loved that the author chose that name, because it says a lot about the character. He's like a younger version of Indiana Jones, so you know the story is going to be good (especially if you are a huge Indiana Jones fan). He is the person that binds the two girls together.
I highly recommend this book if you love Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series or J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter. I can't wait for the next books in the series.
March 22, 2019
The Third Coin is a well written YA novel & very enjoyable to read. Since I am an adult with children, a husband & job, it took me about two days to read. If I were still a teenager I would have read it in a few hours. While reading this novel I would try to pick it up every chance I could & it kept my attention the whole time.
You have these three unlikely characters come together to form a covenant in order to find the lost third coin, the coin of Balance. Magic, King Arthur & The Lady of the Lake are real!
Bea (Bianca) is "light;" so excited about their quest, full of hope & in wonder at finding out that the King Arthur "tales" are true. Nisha is "dark;" she grew up with her aunt who is a fortune teller, has been bullied ever since she was a young child & has a difficult time knowing if Bea is sincere in the search or playing the pretty, popular, mean girl. Finally, we have Indy; who first befriends Bea & apparently has feelings for Nisha, he's the "protector" on this journey & he looks out for his friends as they search for the missing coin.
There are so many twists & turns in this well written book that YA's & fans of YA novels will enjoy reading.
You have these three unlikely characters come together to form a covenant in order to find the lost third coin, the coin of Balance. Magic, King Arthur & The Lady of the Lake are real!
Bea (Bianca) is "light;" so excited about their quest, full of hope & in wonder at finding out that the King Arthur "tales" are true. Nisha is "dark;" she grew up with her aunt who is a fortune teller, has been bullied ever since she was a young child & has a difficult time knowing if Bea is sincere in the search or playing the pretty, popular, mean girl. Finally, we have Indy; who first befriends Bea & apparently has feelings for Nisha, he's the "protector" on this journey & he looks out for his friends as they search for the missing coin.
There are so many twists & turns in this well written book that YA's & fans of YA novels will enjoy reading.
March 14, 2019
J.A Howard, weaves an interesting tale that surprises at every turn. Harnessing a deliberate creativity, Howard constructs an encapsulating piece, which is reminiscent of series long-past. Bea Brightman, as the MC, is a convincing character, who draws you in with an overall insightful understanding of the workings of the world. As younger MC characters go, Bea manages to harness the mundane and deliver it with a comforting manner. Overall, Bea is a good character to aspire towards. Managing to traipse the traditional lines between reliability as a teenage character and the moralistic outlines of being an adult, Howard quickly sends the novel towards themes of fantastic origin. I personally, was capture immediately, intrigued to how the author would spin their web.>J.A Howard, through an amazing understanding of societal implications, has delivered a well-thought out novel which provokes inflection, and, an enjoyable dialogue. Utilising the conventional idea of quest, and adventure, Howard appeals to the perfect demographic, weaving in historical concepts for the finishing touch
As a whole, I'd readily recommend this novel for anyone wanting a intricately weaved fantasy novel, set in a realistic surrounding. I'm not 'waiting' for a sequel, but I am eager to read more.
As a whole, I'd readily recommend this novel for anyone wanting a intricately weaved fantasy novel, set in a realistic surrounding. I'm not 'waiting' for a sequel, but I am eager to read more.
February 26, 2019
My younger self would have enjoyed this book far more than my adult self has. After tormenting myself for some hours about whether I should give it a 3 or 4 star review, I finally decided to go with the one that was more in line with the books' targeted demographic.
The story was well written and reasonably engaging, and I sped through reading it in a couple of free afternoons. I enjoyed the addition of Arthurian legend (with a twist, of course), although some may be put off by the tarot cards, scrying, and spells in the story. There is the typical middle-school theme of feeling like an outsider and wanting to be part of the popular crowd, bullying, and adventure to save the world.
I felt that the inclusion of the character of Indy (token male and potential love interest in future books I am certain) could have been bolstered more or left out. His character seemed really shallow and without any depth, yet he was written in as an important character in his own right. The story is obviously centered around the two girls and their eventual bonding and friendship.
Overall, I would recommend it for the young adult reader (especially female) who likes Percy Jackson, Harry Potter and their ilk. It is not terribly sophisticated in words and story, and will provide a fun engaging read.
As an adult reader, I found it to be more worthy of three stars. The character of Bea annoyed the heck out of me for the first half of the book with her desire to emulate and make friends with the "Top Pops" or most popular kids in the school. She documented every little nuance of character in a little book, and tried her hardest to not be seen as different despite being a new student and therefore intrinsically different and an outsider. I felt that her obsession with becoming popular was very heavy handed and it was one of the most off-putting elements of the story.
As a story it was well crafted, but I enjoy my novels to have more complexity to the story as well as the characters. Since the novel is geared towards a younger audience than myself, I felt that I could not count that in my initial review. While I also appreciate stories of "girl power" and female empowerment I believe that it shouldn't come at the expense of a well crafted story. This and my annoyance with the character of Bea is what ultimately leads me to give it a three star review for an adult audience. Overall it was engaging and a quick read, and I would likely read the next book in the series as well as let my children read it.
The story was well written and reasonably engaging, and I sped through reading it in a couple of free afternoons. I enjoyed the addition of Arthurian legend (with a twist, of course), although some may be put off by the tarot cards, scrying, and spells in the story. There is the typical middle-school theme of feeling like an outsider and wanting to be part of the popular crowd, bullying, and adventure to save the world.
I felt that the inclusion of the character of Indy (token male and potential love interest in future books I am certain) could have been bolstered more or left out. His character seemed really shallow and without any depth, yet he was written in as an important character in his own right. The story is obviously centered around the two girls and their eventual bonding and friendship.
Overall, I would recommend it for the young adult reader (especially female) who likes Percy Jackson, Harry Potter and their ilk. It is not terribly sophisticated in words and story, and will provide a fun engaging read.
As an adult reader, I found it to be more worthy of three stars. The character of Bea annoyed the heck out of me for the first half of the book with her desire to emulate and make friends with the "Top Pops" or most popular kids in the school. She documented every little nuance of character in a little book, and tried her hardest to not be seen as different despite being a new student and therefore intrinsically different and an outsider. I felt that her obsession with becoming popular was very heavy handed and it was one of the most off-putting elements of the story.
As a story it was well crafted, but I enjoy my novels to have more complexity to the story as well as the characters. Since the novel is geared towards a younger audience than myself, I felt that I could not count that in my initial review. While I also appreciate stories of "girl power" and female empowerment I believe that it shouldn't come at the expense of a well crafted story. This and my annoyance with the character of Bea is what ultimately leads me to give it a three star review for an adult audience. Overall it was engaging and a quick read, and I would likely read the next book in the series as well as let my children read it.
April 7, 2021
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
This was certainly not written for someone of my age.
Overall the story was fairly predictable but was an easy fun read for all ages.
One thing for certain it had some things spot on. E.g. School and the different groups.
This was certainly not written for someone of my age.
Overall the story was fairly predictable but was an easy fun read for all ages.
One thing for certain it had some things spot on. E.g. School and the different groups.
April 28, 2018
I got this book as a freebie on my Kindle and goodness I was not expecting such a good story. The characters were really well written and the story was well thought out with twists and turns. I was delighted I stumbled across the Third Coin because boy it was worth my time. :)
February 11, 2020
I really enjoyed this book it keeps you on your toes every step of the way. If you like theories of Atlantis, people with magic powers and a sense of adventures you will like those book. I'm still waiting for a sequel which I read is still slowly in the works. I hope it comes out soon, I would love to get back into the story again.
August 23, 2020
Lots of exposition. After they receive the quest, there are about 50 pages of it. I liked the characters from the start, but this really slowed things down. I was so happy when things started moving again. One of the big reveals is easily predicted, but this book is still pretty fun.
January 20, 2020
Great read!
Fast paced, exciting spin on the Avalon stories. Likable characters. I'm hoping there will be more adventures for Bea, Nisha & Indy.
Fast paced, exciting spin on the Avalon stories. Likable characters. I'm hoping there will be more adventures for Bea, Nisha & Indy.
May 1, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Easy read children’s book which was hard to put down even for a 45 year old.... :)
October 21, 2019
Loved it
A delightful read. Well done from beginning to end. Wish she had other books to read afterwards. Very gifted in story telling.
A delightful read. Well done from beginning to end. Wish she had other books to read afterwards. Very gifted in story telling.
August 23, 2020
Don't Give Up
Thanks to Kindle I can tell you that it's after the first 18% of the text that this suddenly becomes a very entertaining book. Up to that point you will have to soldier through a patronizing and angsty heroine #1, a mopey and prickly heroine #2, a goofy hero, and way more preteen junior high school drama than seems necessary, or even relevant, to the story. I was in potential DNF territory the whole way.
But it's like walking through a magic curtain. Suddenly, Bea, (heroine #1), stops being a superior and condescending snot. Nisha, (heroine #2), stops being an exposed nerve. Indy, (action boy), finds the hero within. We move away from the school drama and mean girl angst. The macguffin starts to make sense. The plot comes into focus. The whole King Arthur/Lady of the Lake angle starts to work its magic. And things start to happen. A lot. And quickly. All of a sudden we have a ripping adventure.
Does everyone have convenient powers? Sure. Do secondary and minor characters come out of the woodwork to explain and rescue? Of course. Do necessary things happen just in the nick of time? Absolutely. Does coincidence keep the wheels turning? Don't ask. But I didn't care, because it was fun and clever and energetic. There were lots of interesting scenes and clever twists and bits. (You'll love the lie flies, that bite you when you lie or say something wrong.) Better still, our three heroes became interesting, dropped their pretensions and masks and issues, and just got into the adventure and went with the flow.
This has an engaging subtext about girrrrl power and agency and empowerment and self confidence, but it isn't preachy and mostly appears through the actual decisions and resourcefulness of the heroes, which seems to me to have been the right way to go.
So, this was clever and fun after its slow start, and the author put some interesting new spins on some old, but good, basic material. I enjoyed it.
(Please note that I received a free ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
Thanks to Kindle I can tell you that it's after the first 18% of the text that this suddenly becomes a very entertaining book. Up to that point you will have to soldier through a patronizing and angsty heroine #1, a mopey and prickly heroine #2, a goofy hero, and way more preteen junior high school drama than seems necessary, or even relevant, to the story. I was in potential DNF territory the whole way.
But it's like walking through a magic curtain. Suddenly, Bea, (heroine #1), stops being a superior and condescending snot. Nisha, (heroine #2), stops being an exposed nerve. Indy, (action boy), finds the hero within. We move away from the school drama and mean girl angst. The macguffin starts to make sense. The plot comes into focus. The whole King Arthur/Lady of the Lake angle starts to work its magic. And things start to happen. A lot. And quickly. All of a sudden we have a ripping adventure.
Does everyone have convenient powers? Sure. Do secondary and minor characters come out of the woodwork to explain and rescue? Of course. Do necessary things happen just in the nick of time? Absolutely. Does coincidence keep the wheels turning? Don't ask. But I didn't care, because it was fun and clever and energetic. There were lots of interesting scenes and clever twists and bits. (You'll love the lie flies, that bite you when you lie or say something wrong.) Better still, our three heroes became interesting, dropped their pretensions and masks and issues, and just got into the adventure and went with the flow.
This has an engaging subtext about girrrrl power and agency and empowerment and self confidence, but it isn't preachy and mostly appears through the actual decisions and resourcefulness of the heroes, which seems to me to have been the right way to go.
So, this was clever and fun after its slow start, and the author put some interesting new spins on some old, but good, basic material. I enjoyed it.
(Please note that I received a free ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
May 16, 2019
“Three Finders will come if Coin is lost, The Brave and true to stand the test, Seeking the treasure at all cost, As all depends upon their quest.”
The Third Coin by A. J. Howard
This is not a retelling of King Arthur but it deals with 3 teenagers who are apparent descendants of Characters from the tale of King Arthur who are sent on a quest to recover something lost.
The story takes place in New York in what seems like present times, during winter. It follows 3 teenagers. Bea short for Bianca, who has a father that hunts rare items and is in search of a mysterious coin. Nisha who lives with her great aunt the local fortune teller 🔮 and is an outcast with a secret past. Indy is a skateboarding boy that seems drawn to both Bea and Nisha without explanation.
The Third Coin brings an element of magic to an ordinary world. The 3 main characters must go in search for a coin that if not found can bring about the destruction of the world. (Because it wouldn’t be interesting otherwise, right)along the way friendships are made, trusts are tested, and family bonds are found.
The story is extremely detailed. It’s starts off a little slow to my liking. The quest that is bestowed upon them doesn’t become clear until about half way through the book. Character are building their stories as the stories start and there is a lot of exposition. The story was entertaining, and as Bianca and Nisha start discovering what seems to be a magical connection magic starts becoming more and more real. The books was definitely very entertaining, once the reality of the quest and the consequences that would follow should this not be completed were “spelled” out. (Pun intended)
I believe this would be highly enjoyable for kids and teens between 8-13 years old. I know I certainly would have enjoyed reading at that age.
The Third Coin by A. J. Howard
This is not a retelling of King Arthur but it deals with 3 teenagers who are apparent descendants of Characters from the tale of King Arthur who are sent on a quest to recover something lost.
The story takes place in New York in what seems like present times, during winter. It follows 3 teenagers. Bea short for Bianca, who has a father that hunts rare items and is in search of a mysterious coin. Nisha who lives with her great aunt the local fortune teller 🔮 and is an outcast with a secret past. Indy is a skateboarding boy that seems drawn to both Bea and Nisha without explanation.
The Third Coin brings an element of magic to an ordinary world. The 3 main characters must go in search for a coin that if not found can bring about the destruction of the world. (Because it wouldn’t be interesting otherwise, right)along the way friendships are made, trusts are tested, and family bonds are found.
The story is extremely detailed. It’s starts off a little slow to my liking. The quest that is bestowed upon them doesn’t become clear until about half way through the book. Character are building their stories as the stories start and there is a lot of exposition. The story was entertaining, and as Bianca and Nisha start discovering what seems to be a magical connection magic starts becoming more and more real. The books was definitely very entertaining, once the reality of the quest and the consequences that would follow should this not be completed were “spelled” out. (Pun intended)
I believe this would be highly enjoyable for kids and teens between 8-13 years old. I know I certainly would have enjoyed reading at that age.
March 1, 2016
Bea is tired of moving around and tired of being the perfect daughter. When they land in New York on their quest for the ever elusive coin, Bea hopes things might just change. I think she received more than she bargained for.
She soon meet Nisha, and they have a strange bond that neither of the girls understand. Then Indy comes along to round out the trio. They soon find out that they are The Finders.
There is a lot going on in this story. Many intricate layers.
Bea has always managed to get into the popular crowd in every school she's ended up in, yet Nisha is far from the popular crowd. Bea has to realize how much more Nisha means to her, and Nisha has to learn to trust.
There is also a Arthurian layer going on. Nisha's aunt is one of the Daughters of the Lake and that means that Nisha and her family have magic. That is what brings them on this crazy adventure to save the world and get the coin.
I love the relationship between the three friends, and I feel like the author left a lot hanging. Maybe there is going to be another adventure? I'd hate to think she left it so vague because she didn't want to upset parents. I was expecting something so different from the kissing stone.
Also the last paragraph that she wrote. Almost ruined it for me. It didn't make a lot of sense and it wasn't necessary.
I was so glad that a lot of the things I was assuming through the story ended up true. She uses just the right amount of foreshadowing that the reader can get excited to see if their theory is correct.
She soon meet Nisha, and they have a strange bond that neither of the girls understand. Then Indy comes along to round out the trio. They soon find out that they are The Finders.
There is a lot going on in this story. Many intricate layers.
Bea has always managed to get into the popular crowd in every school she's ended up in, yet Nisha is far from the popular crowd. Bea has to realize how much more Nisha means to her, and Nisha has to learn to trust.
There is also a Arthurian layer going on. Nisha's aunt is one of the Daughters of the Lake and that means that Nisha and her family have magic. That is what brings them on this crazy adventure to save the world and get the coin.
I love the relationship between the three friends, and I feel like the author left a lot hanging. Maybe there is going to be another adventure? I'd hate to think she left it so vague because she didn't want to upset parents. I was expecting something so different from the kissing stone.
Also the last paragraph that she wrote. Almost ruined it for me. It didn't make a lot of sense and it wasn't necessary.
I was so glad that a lot of the things I was assuming through the story ended up true. She uses just the right amount of foreshadowing that the reader can get excited to see if their theory is correct.
October 11, 2017
Pitched as a great book for Harry Potter and Percy Jackson fans, this was a wonderful read and it did not disappoint! It has fantasy, magic, mystery, friendship, and adventure all rolled into a nice neat package.
The book follows two girls, Bea and Nisha, who have to come together to find a mysterious, lost coin - that if not returned could end the world as they know it. This was such a great story, it had friendship and issues, it has problem solving and mystery and it was a grand adventure.The book took a little while to pick up and get going but once you hit the half way point, the plot just chugs along.
The characters were all very interesting, I think I related most with the misfit - Nisha versus Bea -who seemed to have things figured out. Indy was a great addition to their group, he was a great personality and I loved that he wrangled the girls when they needed it. My only disappointment here was that the by was cast as the protector and I think a girl would have been just as capable. BUT overall it was a wonderful character dynamic and I enjoyed them all together.
The plot was a bit strange and took a good amount of build up but it came together well and there were a few twist at the very end that I really was no expecting and really enjoyed them.
I think that original pitch stands true - if you were/are a fan of Harry Potter or the Percy Jackson series, this is a wonderful book.
The book follows two girls, Bea and Nisha, who have to come together to find a mysterious, lost coin - that if not returned could end the world as they know it. This was such a great story, it had friendship and issues, it has problem solving and mystery and it was a grand adventure.The book took a little while to pick up and get going but once you hit the half way point, the plot just chugs along.
The characters were all very interesting, I think I related most with the misfit - Nisha versus Bea -who seemed to have things figured out. Indy was a great addition to their group, he was a great personality and I loved that he wrangled the girls when they needed it. My only disappointment here was that the by was cast as the protector and I think a girl would have been just as capable. BUT overall it was a wonderful character dynamic and I enjoyed them all together.
The plot was a bit strange and took a good amount of build up but it came together well and there were a few twist at the very end that I really was no expecting and really enjoyed them.
I think that original pitch stands true - if you were/are a fan of Harry Potter or the Percy Jackson series, this is a wonderful book.
September 26, 2019
The third coin by J A Howard.
Bea Brightman is smart; smart enough to know that being popular matters. And after attending eight schools in as many years, she’s got making friends down to a science. That is until her famed archaeologist father moves them to New York City in search of an ever-elusive coin. There she meets Nisha Lakewood who may hold the key to finding it. The only problem is, Nisha wants nothing to do with her.
A good read with likeable characters. I did find it slow but carried on reading it. 4*.
Bea Brightman is smart; smart enough to know that being popular matters. And after attending eight schools in as many years, she’s got making friends down to a science. That is until her famed archaeologist father moves them to New York City in search of an ever-elusive coin. There she meets Nisha Lakewood who may hold the key to finding it. The only problem is, Nisha wants nothing to do with her.
A good read with likeable characters. I did find it slow but carried on reading it. 4*.
September 5, 2015
I enjoyed this story that meshes Avalon, magic, King Arthur, a love story and three kids with fun personalities.
Bea's dad has been looking for a special coin all her life. It has led to seven schools in Bea's 12 years. She arrives in New York to attend a new school and meets a boy on a skateboard and a girl that seems like a gypsy.
There follows an adventure to find the coin on their own since it is needed to restore balance to the world. Bickering and insecurity of youth hamper their progress.
But they work together and in the end there are some surprises for all three.
Bea's dad has been looking for a special coin all her life. It has led to seven schools in Bea's 12 years. She arrives in New York to attend a new school and meets a boy on a skateboard and a girl that seems like a gypsy.
There follows an adventure to find the coin on their own since it is needed to restore balance to the world. Bickering and insecurity of youth hamper their progress.
But they work together and in the end there are some surprises for all three.
April 1, 2019
*free copy received from netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
This was a breath of fresh air. I've read so many duds lately, and this just swept me away. It's aimed at a ''sligthly'' less younger demographic than myself, but even so I found it well balanced. Not too simple, not too complicated.
The characters are well written, and the story itself is exiting and exhilarating. To be recommended.
This was a breath of fresh air. I've read so many duds lately, and this just swept me away. It's aimed at a ''sligthly'' less younger demographic than myself, but even so I found it well balanced. Not too simple, not too complicated.
The characters are well written, and the story itself is exiting and exhilarating. To be recommended.
March 13, 2015
This book is a fun and light magical romp featuring wisps of Arthurian legends, gypsies and prophecies. It also has a strong empowering message to those who suffer bullying in a middle school environment, which is heartening to read. A good message wrapped in an entertaining story for a niece or daughter to read.
October 5, 2015
I really enjoyed this book and have already recommended it to two young friends. It is well written and I loved bringing the King Arthur and Lady of the Lake story to young readers so that they may hopefully look in to them more for themselves Strong characters, especially the girls, made this a great read.
May 23, 2019
This was such a fun read! I was hooked from the first couple of pages. The characters were lovable and the story was engaging (even for an adult!). I recommend this to anyone who loves adventure with a little bit of magic thrown in.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book, which I voluntarily chose to review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book, which I voluntarily chose to review.
November 21, 2014
I won this book through Goodreads, and mostly enjoyed it. I feel like there were some serious plot issues, although a young reader of the intended age might not notice them. If there are more books in the series I'll probably check them out, though.
August 24, 2015
I loved this YA fantasy so much! The twist/surprise was obvs and the end felt a bit anticlimactic but I loved the characters too much to care. The ending was open to sequels so I really do hope there are a few!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews