A promise kept. A future unraveling. A fate not yet her own.
Fiona never intended to become the catalyst for an entire species' survival. But when visions from the Seer lead her into the heart of a crumbling jungle and into the den of the enigmatic Zaltys, her path becomes inescapably clear. With time running out and trust hard-won, Fiona risks everything to deliver an elixir that could restore a dying people; if only they accept the cost.
But some futures can’t be predicted.
When the Gateway carries her to a world she did not choose, Fiona finds herself face-to-face with a being that isn’t supposed to exist. A being who remembers her, though they have never met.
Promise of a Future is a gripping fantasy/sci-fi novella of fate, sacrifice, and the unraveling truth waiting beyond the veil of destiny and choices.
The journey neither begins nor ends here. Continue exploring the worlds of Celtan, Ki, and beyond in the Glimpse Behind the Portal novellas; companion stories that illuminate the hidden moments and untold scenes behind the Druidess Trilogy.
Machelle Hanleigh is an author who seamlessly blends fantasy, sci-fi, and romance to create emotionally resonant stories filled with magic, adventure, and heart. Inspired by the legendary works of J.R.R. Tolkien, David Eddings, and Christine Feehan, her novels take readers on unforgettable journeys through imaginative worlds where love and destiny intertwine.
Her debut trilogy, Inhabitants at the Center of the Universe, begins with Druidess Found, an epic tale of Druids, forbidden love, and a quest to unlock ancient powers. The series promises to expand into a sprawling, interconnected universe filled with powerful women, morally complex characters, and relationships that evolve naturally through the challenges they face.
Machelle’s stories often explore themes of personal growth, healing, and self-discovery, highlighting how trauma and love shape her characters. While mature themes may arise, her writing prioritizes emotional connections over graphic details, ensuring a safe yet evocative reading experience. Her work includes behind-the-scenes novellas for those who want to dive deeper into her characters’ lives, exclusively for subscribers of her newsletter.
Overcoming her dyslexia diagnosis in seventh grade, Machelle has spent two decades honing her craft and proving that even the greatest obstacles can spark extraordinary creativity. When not writing, she loves engaging with readers and dreaming up her next story.
While I very much adored the writing, it was extremely difficult to get engaged with the way the story began. This is Book 3 of 3, and it felt like I was being dropped into an adventure already in progress. It took some time for me to catch and by the time I did, the MC was in the midst of another pressing issue. After that, I had trouble engaging with the story. Still, as I said in the opening statement, there is great quality in the writing. So much so that I am seriously considering getting Books 1 and 2 to get a better understanding of things.
Promise of a Future is a spellbinding blend of fantasy and sci-fi that grips you from the first page with its rich world-building and emotional depth. Fiona's journey is one of courage, sacrifice, and the mysterious pull of destiny—perfect for readers who crave adventure with heart.