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Defenders of the Realm #5
The Quest for the Cursed Mirrors: Defenders of the Realm, Book 5
In a world where dragons soar the skies and witches command the elements, a group of extraordinary young heroes must unravel the mystery behind enchanted mirrors, a treacherous sorcerer, and a stolen destiny. Brace yourself for an epic adventure filled with magic, danger, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.
Embark on an epic journey filled with magic, adventure, and unexpected alliances. In a world teetering on the edge of war, join our courageous heroes as they uncover a web of deception and fight to restore balance.
As the fifth-year witches and dragons of Eldavon hone their skills, unrest grips the surrounding kingdoms. Natural disasters wreak havoc, yet Eldavon's aid is rejected. While resources dwindle and summer becomes a scorching inferno, only Odentia thrives with bountiful harvests. Now, Eldavon and Odentia forge an alliance, sealed by a political marriage between Rowena, the new Odentia queen, and Hector, a dragon from Eldavon.
But the path to unity is treacherous. Rowena vanishes mysteriously, leaving the group desperate to unravel the truth. With each step, they uncover dark secrets, enchanted mirrors, and a malevolent sorcerer plotting to hoard all magic for himself. Trust is tested, alliances shift, and friends must face their own transformations.
Join them on this thrilling, magical adventure as they strive to bring rain to the drought-stricken lands, restore harmony, and shape their own destinies. Experience a tale of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of friendship. Are you ready to unleash your own inner magic and join the fight for a better world?
The Quest for the Cursed Mirrors is the fifth and final book in the Defenders of the Realm series.
Embark on an epic journey filled with magic, adventure, and unexpected alliances. In a world teetering on the edge of war, join our courageous heroes as they uncover a web of deception and fight to restore balance.
As the fifth-year witches and dragons of Eldavon hone their skills, unrest grips the surrounding kingdoms. Natural disasters wreak havoc, yet Eldavon's aid is rejected. While resources dwindle and summer becomes a scorching inferno, only Odentia thrives with bountiful harvests. Now, Eldavon and Odentia forge an alliance, sealed by a political marriage between Rowena, the new Odentia queen, and Hector, a dragon from Eldavon.
But the path to unity is treacherous. Rowena vanishes mysteriously, leaving the group desperate to unravel the truth. With each step, they uncover dark secrets, enchanted mirrors, and a malevolent sorcerer plotting to hoard all magic for himself. Trust is tested, alliances shift, and friends must face their own transformations.
Join them on this thrilling, magical adventure as they strive to bring rain to the drought-stricken lands, restore harmony, and shape their own destinies. Experience a tale of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of friendship. Are you ready to unleash your own inner magic and join the fight for a better world?
The Quest for the Cursed Mirrors is the fifth and final book in the Defenders of the Realm series.
Audible Audio
Published July 10, 2024
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About the author
Marie-Hélène Lebeault
96 books382 followersMarie-Hélène Lebeault writes Speculative Fiction for children, teens, and adults
Be sure to follow her here and on https://www.bookbub.com/authors/marie...
Join her newsletter for events, sales, and new releases at https: //mhlebeaultauthor.substack.com
Marie-Hélène is a Canadian author. She writes young adult quest and adventure stories rooted in the world of fantasy, magic and time travel. With important coming of age lessons at the core of her writing, children and young adults alike will revel in the fantastical journeys of her characters. When not immersed in the worlds of magic and mystery, you’ll find Marie-Hélène hiking, cycling, or lying on the beach with a good book.
Be sure to follow her here and on https://www.bookbub.com/authors/marie...
Join her newsletter for events, sales, and new releases at https: //mhlebeaultauthor.substack.com
Marie-Hélène is a Canadian author. She writes young adult quest and adventure stories rooted in the world of fantasy, magic and time travel. With important coming of age lessons at the core of her writing, children and young adults alike will revel in the fantastical journeys of her characters. When not immersed in the worlds of magic and mystery, you’ll find Marie-Hélène hiking, cycling, or lying on the beach with a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 23, 2023
Two characters had a really deep conversation about arranged/political marriages. IMHO, these can often be less problematic than those based solely on love. In the former, lifestyles, values, etc. are discussed and agreed upon before committing. In the latter, emotions can change and destroy a partnership that had a flimsy foundation (or none at all). It’s healthy that these teens look at various aspects of marriage.
I appreciate that the author walked through the key selling points for this particular union rather than merely stating that it’s a good thing and nobody else’s business. The dialogue was well thought out and clearly articulated.
I really like that the thread of Herja’s NeuroDivergence carries on. It pops up here and there, just like IRL. She is a great example for our youth who are struggling to fit into a world that shames us into a box even though our brains are designed to function otherwise.
Which leads right into…
The Balance of Power. In this world, the three main groups receive power from one of three sources (the earth, moon, and sun). They learn about the roles of the others and how they fit in themselves. We all gotta work together!
Fave word:
Hullabaloo
Now that the crew has graduated, it’s time to move on to the author's ‘The Evers’ series and the ‘Blood Magick Trilogy’.
I appreciate that the author walked through the key selling points for this particular union rather than merely stating that it’s a good thing and nobody else’s business. The dialogue was well thought out and clearly articulated.
I really like that the thread of Herja’s NeuroDivergence carries on. It pops up here and there, just like IRL. She is a great example for our youth who are struggling to fit into a world that shames us into a box even though our brains are designed to function otherwise.
Which leads right into…
The Balance of Power. In this world, the three main groups receive power from one of three sources (the earth, moon, and sun). They learn about the roles of the others and how they fit in themselves. We all gotta work together!
Fave word:
Hullabaloo
Now that the crew has graduated, it’s time to move on to the author's ‘The Evers’ series and the ‘Blood Magick Trilogy’.
November 15, 2023
The band of Friends consisting of Witches, Dragons and one Gorgon, are in their fifth year at the institute and, since they are not required to provide any other item to make and complete the witches spell book, they anticipate a fifth year of normal studies, hard scholar efforts, time spent knowing their mates and, learning without the dangers and hardships that have plagued their Four previously school years.
They are in for a rude awakening.
When Rowena, the new queen of Odentia, disappears, the six students, Kaia, Nolan, Herja, Wickham, Penelope and Raven, are asked by their six rulers, to go and lend their precious assistance, at the bequest of the acting Prince and former foe who has caused them nothing but grief the previous years.
The author uses her special gift to create a plot where one has to wonder:" What else can happen to the young students". In addition, she succeeds in taking the reader on a virtual adventure where he or she feels like they are on site. Simply Fantastic .
Treachery, quarrels, self doubt, sadness, exhaustion and new Foes lead to discoveries and plots that. Could affect the fate of all the realms. I cannot elaborate further without giving away the plot.
This book that I highly recommend and rate 5 Stars, is the fifth in a fantastic series, after a prequel, and in my opinion, one of t he best books I have had the opportunity to read, this year.
They are in for a rude awakening.
When Rowena, the new queen of Odentia, disappears, the six students, Kaia, Nolan, Herja, Wickham, Penelope and Raven, are asked by their six rulers, to go and lend their precious assistance, at the bequest of the acting Prince and former foe who has caused them nothing but grief the previous years.
The author uses her special gift to create a plot where one has to wonder:" What else can happen to the young students". In addition, she succeeds in taking the reader on a virtual adventure where he or she feels like they are on site. Simply Fantastic .
Treachery, quarrels, self doubt, sadness, exhaustion and new Foes lead to discoveries and plots that. Could affect the fate of all the realms. I cannot elaborate further without giving away the plot.
This book that I highly recommend and rate 5 Stars, is the fifth in a fantastic series, after a prequel, and in my opinion, one of t he best books I have had the opportunity to read, this year.
November 21, 2023
It’s the last year for the group at the Institute, a time to complete their studies, hone skills, continue to develop relationships with their partners, and prepare for life ahead.
Yet, the political situation is worsening around their world, and planned alliances which preserve and strengthen the order must be achieved.
Instead, Odentia’s queen is lost, and they are asked to partner with an old enemy as it gets more complicated from there. Weather problems, draught, famine are just symptoms of a bigger problem – an adversary bent on destroying the lives of those in Eldavon.
A fitting end to the series, this team of young adults must work together to preserve their existence.
This book continues its exploration of identity. What really defines us as individuals and what if we lost what we saw as our identity?
Good writing, and plot elements come together well. Only negative is the lack of proofreading – there are simple, silly errors every few pages which should have been caught in review. I still think this is 5 stars, but those mistakes can confuse what is otherwise an enjoyable read.
Yet, the political situation is worsening around their world, and planned alliances which preserve and strengthen the order must be achieved.
Instead, Odentia’s queen is lost, and they are asked to partner with an old enemy as it gets more complicated from there. Weather problems, draught, famine are just symptoms of a bigger problem – an adversary bent on destroying the lives of those in Eldavon.
A fitting end to the series, this team of young adults must work together to preserve their existence.
This book continues its exploration of identity. What really defines us as individuals and what if we lost what we saw as our identity?
Good writing, and plot elements come together well. Only negative is the lack of proofreading – there are simple, silly errors every few pages which should have been caught in review. I still think this is 5 stars, but those mistakes can confuse what is otherwise an enjoyable read.
November 25, 2023
Twisted magic!
It’s year five and everyone is looking toward their future careers. Kaia and Nolan are summoned before the royals to take on a quest unlike any of the ones they have faced before. Failure is not an option but it will require all of the fifth year students if there is to be a chance of success.
The challenges, the magic, the intrigue – what a story! I am not ready for this series to end. I received an advance copy but my review is honest and voluntary.
It’s year five and everyone is looking toward their future careers. Kaia and Nolan are summoned before the royals to take on a quest unlike any of the ones they have faced before. Failure is not an option but it will require all of the fifth year students if there is to be a chance of success.
The challenges, the magic, the intrigue – what a story! I am not ready for this series to end. I received an advance copy but my review is honest and voluntary.
July 19, 2024
An old foe becomes a hero, but still pays a steep price.
Now final year students these young people have come far since their journey to the silver springs. Navigating far more than normal years of institute life has given them the ability to offer the crown and kingdom far more than they realise.
This was fantastic. I'd love to see how the next few years treat these couples.
There is still so much to learn for them and from them.
Well written.
Now final year students these young people have come far since their journey to the silver springs. Navigating far more than normal years of institute life has given them the ability to offer the crown and kingdom far more than they realise.
This was fantastic. I'd love to see how the next few years treat these couples.
There is still so much to learn for them and from them.
Well written.
July 30, 2024
Wonderful ending to the series! This book had a unique plot and amazingly developed characters. I’m sad that it’s over and I hope someday this series is re-visited in a new or continued world. The quests these students were sent on were pretty dangerous for young “children” (I feel like they are all so mature and advanced for their ages!) and they always seemed to triumph when they worked together, though there have been some losses along the way…
August 23, 2024
I love this story! It shows how age differences don't always make sense. Maturity is based on life experiences, the events you have overcome and the problems you have solved. I liked how the author presented this, how she repeatedly portrayed the emotions and thoughts of the characters and gave them space. I love how this story develops and how the challenges are overcome together with a lot of cooperation.
August 31, 2024
Awesome ending to this adventure! One last year of absolutely nothing going the way it should and the fifth year students must save the world...again. Marie-Helene has done a wonderful job of developing this world and all the characters to build a fun and adventurous s series! I just wish she'd continue with "The Next Chapters" because she did such a good job that there is so much more to be told.....
November 23, 2023
Love this author’s style of writing. I don’t normally go for books in this genre but I’ve read all the Evers and this new instalment is awesome . An immersive experience in a world where dragons soar and the witches comman£ the elements and calm. I read an advance of this book and my review is voluntary
November 29, 2023
Once again, Ms. Lebeault delivers. I was on the edge of my seat nearly the whole time. These young dragons and witches may look like children, but they have been through more than a lot of adults. Now their worst fear may be coming to fruition, war. Finnegan is back and on their side, or so he says. There were quite a few errors in this book, which are annoying. I know this is the end, but......
July 28, 2024
"The Quest for the Cursed Mirrors" by Marie-Hélène Lebeault is a delightful conclusion to the Defenders of the Realm series. With captivating writing and Derek Stephen Brown's stellar narration, this magical adventure is both thrilling and heartwarming. Dive into a world of enchantment and bravery—it's a journey you won't want to miss!
December 5, 2023
The Quest for the Cursed Mirrors (Defenders of the Realm Book 5), my eighteenth read from author Marie-Hélène Lebeault. An 212-page entertaining read. I look forward to reading more from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
December 1, 2023
Dragons and witches and enchanted mirrors to keep you intrigued. There’s danger to keep you hoping that they will be able to solve everything quickly. Don’t miss out.
Read
December 23, 2023The series is complete! We are currently producing audiobooks. The Prequel is available and we just finished book 1. https://books.beachesandtrailspublish...
April 9, 2024
Overall enjoyable series. Some of the books you have stick with.
September 25, 2024
This was a super thrilling end to the series. It has all the twist and turns and the mystery and it is just crazy to think that these mirrors can do this and we finally figure out who this sorcerer is and why he is doing this, and the kids which are not kids anymore are working with a friend of theirs who is the new queen when all of a sudden she turns on them and starts working with the sorcerer.
This is a pretty great series. I would definitely recommend it to young adults. It’s got a great fantasy plot line lots of adventure and totally fits in with that teenage attitude. This is a good family-friendly book.
This is a pretty great series. I would definitely recommend it to young adults. It’s got a great fantasy plot line lots of adventure and totally fits in with that teenage attitude. This is a good family-friendly book.
March 25, 2025
❤️A NICE SEQUEL
At the Institute, Herja looked around with melancholy.
At eighteen, it was her fifth and final year of study with her group of students with magical powers.
What new adventure and quest awaited these young friends?
They were about to learn of a mysterious disappearance...
-----------------------------------
I was pleased to find the little group of friends in a new and final adventure.
The novel is pleasant to read and the characters are quite endearing.
It is with a touch of nostalgia that I close the last book in this captivating youth fantasy series full of mysteries and adventures.
I recommend the entire series.
############################################
💜Suite et fin distrayante.
A l’Institut, Herja observait les alentours avec mélancolie.
A dix-huit ans, c’était sa cinquième et dernière année d’études avec son groupe d’étudiants aux pouvoirs magiques.
Quelle nouvelle aventure et quête attendait ces jeunes amis ?
Ils étaient sur le point d’apprendre la survenue d’une mystérieuse disparition...
-----------------------------------
J’ai retrouvé avec plaisir la petite troupe d’amis dans une nouvelle et dernière aventure.
Le roman est agréable à lire et les personnages sont plutôt attachants.
C’est avec une pointe de nostalgie que je ferme le dernier livre de cette captivante série Fantasy jeunesse pleine de mystères et d’aventures.
Je recommande l’ensemble de la série.
At the Institute, Herja looked around with melancholy.
At eighteen, it was her fifth and final year of study with her group of students with magical powers.
What new adventure and quest awaited these young friends?
They were about to learn of a mysterious disappearance...
-----------------------------------
I was pleased to find the little group of friends in a new and final adventure.
The novel is pleasant to read and the characters are quite endearing.
It is with a touch of nostalgia that I close the last book in this captivating youth fantasy series full of mysteries and adventures.
I recommend the entire series.
############################################
💜Suite et fin distrayante.
A l’Institut, Herja observait les alentours avec mélancolie.
A dix-huit ans, c’était sa cinquième et dernière année d’études avec son groupe d’étudiants aux pouvoirs magiques.
Quelle nouvelle aventure et quête attendait ces jeunes amis ?
Ils étaient sur le point d’apprendre la survenue d’une mystérieuse disparition...
-----------------------------------
J’ai retrouvé avec plaisir la petite troupe d’amis dans une nouvelle et dernière aventure.
Le roman est agréable à lire et les personnages sont plutôt attachants.
C’est avec une pointe de nostalgie que je ferme le dernier livre de cette captivante série Fantasy jeunesse pleine de mystères et d’aventures.
Je recommande l’ensemble de la série.
November 14, 2023
Herja and all her friends are in their final year at the institute. and hoping for a quiet year. But things don't plan out. They are all drawn to finding Queen Rowena and Penelope since they have gone missing. Something is amiss within the realm, and they need to find out what it is. A shocking revelation is found out who is involved. Something is happening to the dragons and not knowing if they will be able to trust Finnegan. A surprising outcome of who was willing to make the sacrifice to rid the curse. Not knowing who can be trusted makes the story very interesting and will hold your attention to the end.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews