Echoes of Elynia

by Macayla Dawn

This collection of heartfelt short stories delves into themes of isolation, change, and starting over. From quiet villages to forgotten lands, each tale weaves gentle magic and humanity into journeys of nostalgia, connection, and self-discovery. Find beauty in belonging within unexpected places and unravel the depths of your soul through this cozy fantasy novel.

Genres: Fantasy

102 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 7, 2025

About the author

Macayla Dawn is a reader first and a writer second.

Growing up, she found herself drawn to worlds filled with demigods, fae, mystery and magic. The characters on those pages became more than just words in a book—they became friends. She is passionate about Jesus, grammar, fantasy, creativity, and ice cream.

In her free time, she loves to read (duh!), write, and explore different ways to express her creativity in all she does. She stays active through tennis, pickleball, working out, and walking with her husband and their dog. She loves to soak up the sun and host gatherings of all sorts.

Originally from Southeast Kansas, she now lives her dream life in Indiana.

Be sure to follow her Instagram and TikTok:
@authormacayladawn.

Reviews

[Jami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great collection of short stories. I loved how each story connected and the beautiful writing in all of them. This would be a great resource to use in schools to teach students about personification, imagery, and character development. My struggle with it was that so many of the “characters” weren’t human-like, so I didn’t feel as interested in them. But the storytelling throughout was impressive honestly!

[Finny · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the beginning i didn’t know what to think about this book. You don’t really know who or what is telling the story until you start guessing and sometimes get an answer. It is something i had to get used to. Probably just a personal thing.
Nonetheless it’s quite nice to see the world from so many different perspectives! The whole world has a calm vibe to it

[Ashley Izzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowza — such an interesting and thought provoking read!!

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this book, as it’s not my typical read, but I thoroughly enjoyed the series of short stories!

Each character’s story led into the next, and every story had a lesson from which we all can learn.

Written in a light but eloquent manner, speaking from the heart.

[Sophie Osgood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so at PEACE reading this book. What a perfect short read.

[Macayla Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

*disclaimer: I wrote this book*
in the midst of hard times, changing seasons and feeling alone, the world of Elynia spoke to me.
- a fire on its last breath
- a man grappled with the weight of nostalgia
- a tree isolated
- a sparrow longing for freedom
- a nymph feeling like a stranger to herself
- a storm with memory loss
- a turtle wrestling with boundaries
- a girl escaping a toxic environment
- a woman bitter and reluctant to forgive
- and a fox desiring a life of its own, but bound by duty
I see myself in every one of these stories and characters, and I hope you do too. because overall, I hope they make you feel less alone. like you belong. Because you do.

[Shana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this fantasy short story collection! These interconnected stories showcased themes of growth, grief, moving on, and friendship. I loved stepping into Elynia and exploring the beautiful setting.

This collection starts with the whimsical tale of an ice fox and a fire in a cottage. Dawn presents a knack for creative writing and exploring deep human emotions in a whimsical world. This cozy fantasy collection reminded me of the nostalgia and beauty of Studio Ghibli films with heartfelt and relatable themes.

I especially loved the story of a bird in “Weighted Wings.” Dawn perfectly captures the complex emotions of wanting to create a home and place in the world, while also leaving one behind.

“I will carry my tree with me, tucked deep in my heart. I’ll carry their song and shout it as loudly as I am able. And should I ever need to return to that place from where I came, I know the way. It will always be there, waiting for me.”

— Echoes of Elynia by Macayla Dawn
https://a.co/3WO4fso

[Gabrielle Craven · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely beautiful and moving short story. This was such a unique read and resonates with your soul. Macaulay’s writing is awe inspiring. If you are looking for something with a heavy plot and backstory this is not for you, which sounds off putting but I promise it is not. This is a simple tale bouncing from the perspectives of magical beings, nature and the elements as they cross paths. You don’t know much about them but their stories of pushing on and persevering are written in such a beautiful and intricate way that is so moving. The reader is able to interpret the emotions conveyed and apply them to their personal lives. Truly a remarkable journey, definitely recommend.

[Kildare Durin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute and cozy collection of short stories that I am very glad I picked up!
Each short story explores a different theme with an overarching sort of story connecting them all. Although they can still be read as standalones.
The stories are lighthearted and not at the same time with some harsh truths sprinkled in there.
Very enjoyable quick read while being bundled up in a fuzzy blanket with some tea.

P.S.: "But being alone does not equate to the bark shattering loneliness that I allowed myself to feel." - You did NOT need to come at me like that.

[Justise Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

A poetic journey through the cycles we all experience.

[Alison Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO good and so genius. I was so intrigued by the different perspectives these stories explored, and I LOVED getting to hear from the lens of different parts of nature. Macayla is a literary genius!

[Hunter Redmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suck a creative idea! This book enters into real world issues that people face on a day to day basis, and makes it into a thought provoking world story.

[GG · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautifully written short story about change and embracing it.

[Adam · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded up to 3.

[celine⸆⸉ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cozy short stories. Great writing. I personally couldn’t quite get immersed enough because the stories are so short. Still enjoyed the experience of reading this book.

[Savannah Ferrari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautifully written & neat concept. This style of writing does not draw me in unfortunately, but I can see other people who love whimsical writing loving it!

[Taylor Cone · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was very cute if you look at it with a deeper meaning. However in order to do that, I had to be in an almost poetic mood. It did a great job of reminding me to be grateful for what I have. some people may want what I have while I'm yearning for something else. It was quite a beautiful read in that respect.

[Georgia · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lovely little read. I enjoyed the way the stories connected and were told from different perspectives. I do think it suffers slightly from a lack in plot (even within the chapters) and it can feel disconnected at points. I also think there were many areas left unexplored.
Overall, it was a nice, short read with lovely themes, but it left me feeling slightly unsatisfied.

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Observation and thoughts

This is such a well written story. It is told from the perspective of various things in our natural world. I felt like i was taking a walk in a forest. Enveloped in nature. Very calming to read in the chaos of a world.

[Marisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stunning, never read a book written like this but I was in awe.
Loved this way of storytelling