A Magical Map. A Fractured Realm. A Hero’s Journey Like No Other.
When Elara discovers a map unlike any other, it doesn’t just show her a destination—it pulls her into the legendary world of Avarith, a realm teetering on the edge of collapse. Guided by Kyros, a cryptic dragon with secrets of his own, she must brave the Floating Isles—each a test of her resilience, courage, and the power of choice.
With Leo, a steadfast ally hiding his own past, and Snaggles, a mischievous creature full of surprises, Elara faces illusions, riddles, and the haunting weight of past failures. As she unravels the mystery of Avarith’s decline, she realizes that restoring balance means more than following a path—it means forging one.
Fans of The Hobbit, The Golden Compass, and Harry Potter will be captivated by this enchanting fantasy adventure filled ✔ A courageous young heroine navigating a world shaped by choices ✔ A dragon whose wisdom reveals itself, but only to those willing to look deeper ✔ A gripping mix of action, puzzles, and breathtaking magic ✔ A heartwarming tale of friendship, redemption, and self-discovery
Every choice Elara makes changes the course of Avarith’s future. The question is—will she be strong enough to make the right one?
Perfect for fans of coming-of-age fantasy, magical quests, and character-driven adventures. Step into the journey today!
Renae C. Linde writes nonfiction that cuts through noise. Her work examines how people think, how systems break, and how culture shapes behavior. She draws on two decades in information technology, business analysis, and labor negotiations, fields where accuracy matters and patterns decide outcomes.
Her books follow a consistent thread: take a complex human problem, strip it to its mechanics, and make the framework visible. Her catalog spans practical guides on emotional skill, critical thinking, accountability, and financial sense; narrative-driven cultural histories; sharp commentary on social behavior and political division; and reflective works on identity, mortality, and meaning. Whatever the subject, her approach stays the same: observe closely, question assumptions, and avoid sentimentality.
Renae’s writing is informed by experience but not governed by it. She studies the choices people make under pressure, the systems that influence those choices, and the stories that emerge when patterns repeat. Her goal isn’t to motivate readers. It’s to give them clarity: tools, insight, and mental structure they can actually use.
She writes from a place of curiosity rather than ideology. The work asks difficult questions and refuses convenient answers. That’s the through-line—precision, honesty, and a steady focus on what’s real.
Now retired from federal service, she devotes her time to building books that examine human behavior in all its forms: relationships, cultures, communities, and selves shaped by conflict and change.
"“The heart must be restored,” Kyros said, his tone grave. “But it will not be easy. The damage runs deep, and the path to healing requires sacrifice.”" (Ch 16)
Coming of age fantasy adventure. Children's book - about middle school age.
Ten year old, Elara, feels restless. She's tired of her mudane day to day life and wants adventure. One day, when she is having a difficult time concentrating on homework, she feels a pull toward the sanctuary of the attic and happens upon a special map. Unbeknownst to her, the map holds the last of the power of the world, Avarith, and she is the chosen one. She could be its salvation or its ruin. The choices made during the trials along her journey in Avarith would inevitably dictate whether that surrreal fantasy world would survive. She encounters Kyros, a dragon, an ever watchful guide who encourages her with words of wisdom. She would be tested and her worth assessed. Would she make the right decisions, take the correct paths? Trust herself enough in those decisions? Be brave and courageous under duress and threat of danger? Along the way, she meets others, who become her traveling companions. Together, they tackle the realm and all the obstacles and challenges the terrain throws their way.
Each of the illustrations at the head of the chapters are befitting and well-done. There are also several good life lessons within this story, such as: keep going forward even if the path ahead seems daunting; don't be afraid to accept help when it is offered. A couple of the self-reflective trials are in part similar to ones that I have read/seen in other stories/movies.
Bits and pieces, fragments of movies from childhood flashed into mind while reading this, like Neverending Story, and Labryinth. Overall, I thought this was a good, inspiring, thought-provoking fairytale-ish exploratory adventure story.
160 pages | Children’s Fantasy | Coming-of-Age Adventure
I may be a few decades past the book’s target audience, but The Path to Avarith swept me up like I was twelve again—curled up in a quiet corner with a story I didn’t want to end.
Elara, a girl who escapes the weight of expectations by hiding in the attic, discovers a leather-bound journal and a mysterious map that lead her on a life-changing journey. It’s a gentle but gripping tale of magic, bravery, and the quiet power of imagination. Renae C. Linde writes with a softness that feels nostalgic yet fresh, perfect for young readers and the young-at-heart.
One of the standout features? The black and white illustrations. They’re absolutely gorgeous—evocative, atmospheric, and a beautiful addition that brings Elara’s world to life. This is a book that feels like a treasure, inside and out.
Highly recommended for dreamy readers, brave girls, and anyone who remembers what it’s like to believe in more.
And yes, I’m officially casting my vote for an audiobook version (hint hint, Renae C. Linde 😆).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.