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Alexander and the Realm Beneath
Alex is extraordinary but he doesn't know it.
His life is a soggy loop of visits to the principal's office, and sleeping in a room that doesn't feel like his own. That's his life. He doesn't complain because he can't change it.
But something strange has been happening to him. It's unexplainable and goes against everything he's ever known of himself. He hasn't told anyone because it's stupid, completely unrealistic of him to draw such a conclusion... but the facts are there and even more certain when he is dragged forcefully into a world of fantasies.
A world where mermaids are real and where evil exists in the hands of a false king. It is then obvious that he was meant for much, much more.
His life is a soggy loop of visits to the principal's office, and sleeping in a room that doesn't feel like his own. That's his life. He doesn't complain because he can't change it.
But something strange has been happening to him. It's unexplainable and goes against everything he's ever known of himself. He hasn't told anyone because it's stupid, completely unrealistic of him to draw such a conclusion... but the facts are there and even more certain when he is dragged forcefully into a world of fantasies.
A world where mermaids are real and where evil exists in the hands of a false king. It is then obvious that he was meant for much, much more.
575 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2025
14 people want to read
About the author
Assana K. Coulibaly
1 book19 followersASSANA K. COULIBALY is determined to make her first novel, Alexander and the Realm Beneath, a major hit, expanding the series. When she’s not typing up worlds of fiction and fantasy, she plays a variety of sports, tries new things, and works towards her goals.
Born in Houston, Texas, she moved to Saudi Arabia when she was a very young girl and still remains there, traveling back and forth. With her family, she’s visited many countries and tried several cultural dishes. She doesn’t plan on stopping at just books; she dreams of becoming an icon.
No website yet. You’ll just have to wait for the bio update ;)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
August 10, 2025
A surprisingly impressive light fantasy!
Alex’s story is powerful, set against a vivid and unique backdrop. Kamala’s mission doesn’t instantly make him strut with an inflated ego. Instead, he learns. He feels. His will hardens, layer upon layer, like a delicate weave of impossibly complex magic—yet he masters it with astonishing speed. That struggle is genuinely impressive. Several conflicts appear suddenly—as if everything spills out at once with a mysterious train rushing at full speed—which stays consistent with Alex’s initial promise. He soon meets people full of stories and missions, and this will only grow deeper if Alex has enough time to understand their emotions beyond the clash with his own newly solid principles.
However, as with many of Kamala’s tales involving her companions—Husein and the others—their bond still doesn’t quite come across as that of true teammates. And of course, the reason Alex undertakes this mission remains a compelling challenge, one that keeps us wanting to follow his journey.
Alex’s story is powerful, set against a vivid and unique backdrop. Kamala’s mission doesn’t instantly make him strut with an inflated ego. Instead, he learns. He feels. His will hardens, layer upon layer, like a delicate weave of impossibly complex magic—yet he masters it with astonishing speed. That struggle is genuinely impressive. Several conflicts appear suddenly—as if everything spills out at once with a mysterious train rushing at full speed—which stays consistent with Alex’s initial promise. He soon meets people full of stories and missions, and this will only grow deeper if Alex has enough time to understand their emotions beyond the clash with his own newly solid principles.
However, as with many of Kamala’s tales involving her companions—Husein and the others—their bond still doesn’t quite come across as that of true teammates. And of course, the reason Alex undertakes this mission remains a compelling challenge, one that keeps us wanting to follow his journey.
September 27, 2025
Alexander and the Realm Beneath is a vibrant fantasy that blends everyday struggles with a richly imagined undersea world. The story follows Alexander, a boy grappling with school fights, family pressures, and the strange stirrings of something more within him. Parallel to his journey, readers are swept into Athrabia, a kingdom of merfolk, krakens, sea witches, and ancient prophecies. The duality between Alex’s grounded life and the ocean’s magical intrigue creates a compelling balance that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
The author’s greatest strength lies in worldbuilding. From shimmering underwater courts to the myth of the Witch of Myagma, the details feel lush and cinematic. At the same time, Alex’s very human fears and friendships keep the story relatable. While the pacing occasionally lingers, the overall narrative delivers a strong blend of heart, mystery, and adventure.
This is a promising start to what feels like a much larger saga. Readers who enjoy coming-of-age fantasy with a mix of real-world challenges and mythic undertones will find this an engaging and rewarding read.
The author’s greatest strength lies in worldbuilding. From shimmering underwater courts to the myth of the Witch of Myagma, the details feel lush and cinematic. At the same time, Alex’s very human fears and friendships keep the story relatable. While the pacing occasionally lingers, the overall narrative delivers a strong blend of heart, mystery, and adventure.
This is a promising start to what feels like a much larger saga. Readers who enjoy coming-of-age fantasy with a mix of real-world challenges and mythic undertones will find this an engaging and rewarding read.
August 16, 2025
This book, which I received as part of an ARC review swap, was a pleasant surprise and a constant joy to read! It kept me engaged and hooked from beginning to end. I would say it gave me sort of Percy Jackson-ish vibes, but with a touch of Harry Potter. I would recommend this book to anybody who loves fast, easy fantasy. Besides a few typos and spelling errors, this book definitely has a lot of potential for a debut novel! My compliments to Assana!
August 29, 2025
Alexander & the Realm Beneath pulls you in from the first page into an underwater kingdom full of mermaids, dark threats, and adventure. Alex, the teenage protagonist, faces challenges after he finds himself plucked from his world and dropped into an underwater world as a merman, chosen to save the realm.
A creative, engaging story, it's perfect for young readers who love fantasy. The story setting is rich with atmosphere and detail completely immersing the reader into the magic. I enjoyed this book and recommend.
A creative, engaging story, it's perfect for young readers who love fantasy. The story setting is rich with atmosphere and detail completely immersing the reader into the magic. I enjoyed this book and recommend.
September 2, 2025
There’s something about this book that just clicked with me. The writing is smooth, the world is easy to picture, and the characters felt genuine. It’s not just about big adventures (though there are plenty) - it’s also about heart and choices and the kind of bravery that sneaks up on you. It reminded me of the books that first made me fall in love with reading as a kid, but with a freshness that makes it stand on its own. If you like stories that make you feel like you’re part of something bigger while still being deeply personal, you’ll probably love this as much as I did.
September 23, 2025
Alexander is a boy without a home, burdened with mysterious powers he doesn’t fully understand. When he discovers a hidden kingdom beneath the sea, he learns that this realm has been waiting for a hero—and that he may be the one destined to step into that role. The book launches a fantasy series aimed at middle-grade to young adult readers, blending adventure, magic, and themes of identity and belonging.
The underwater kingdom is a standout element, offering mystery and enchantment that captures the imagination. Readers are drawn into a realm filled with wonder, danger, and possibility.
Emotional Depth
Beyond magic and battles, the heart of the story lies in Alexander’s search for belonging and self-understanding. This balance of adventure and emotional growth makes the story relatable as well as exciting.
Accessible for a Wide Audience
Although it’s well-suited for middle-grade and young adult readers, the story has enough heart and depth to appeal to older fantasy fans who still enjoy a coming-of-age tale.
A Promising Start to a Series
As the first book in a planned saga, it sets the stage for more discoveries, deeper lore, and further growth for Alexander and his companions.
Verdict
Alexander and the Realm Beneath is a heartfelt and imaginative fantasy adventure, perfect for readers who love magical realms, quests beneath the sea, and characters discovering who they truly are. While it leans on familiar fantasy traditions, it delivers enough heart and creativity to stand on its own.
If you enjoy hopeful, adventurous, and character-driven fantasy stories, this book is worth diving into—and it’s only the beginning of a larger journey.
The underwater kingdom is a standout element, offering mystery and enchantment that captures the imagination. Readers are drawn into a realm filled with wonder, danger, and possibility.
Emotional Depth
Beyond magic and battles, the heart of the story lies in Alexander’s search for belonging and self-understanding. This balance of adventure and emotional growth makes the story relatable as well as exciting.
Accessible for a Wide Audience
Although it’s well-suited for middle-grade and young adult readers, the story has enough heart and depth to appeal to older fantasy fans who still enjoy a coming-of-age tale.
A Promising Start to a Series
As the first book in a planned saga, it sets the stage for more discoveries, deeper lore, and further growth for Alexander and his companions.
Verdict
Alexander and the Realm Beneath is a heartfelt and imaginative fantasy adventure, perfect for readers who love magical realms, quests beneath the sea, and characters discovering who they truly are. While it leans on familiar fantasy traditions, it delivers enough heart and creativity to stand on its own.
If you enjoy hopeful, adventurous, and character-driven fantasy stories, this book is worth diving into—and it’s only the beginning of a larger journey.
August 18, 2025
Alexander & the Realm Beneath by Assana K. Coulibaly is an intriguing fantasy novel that follows the misadventures of Alex, a conflicted teenager who, after an accident, finds his soul trapped in the body of a mermaid within the magical underwater world of Athrabia. To return to the human world, he must help his new friend Kamala and challenge the tyrannical reign of Gothar.
Along his journey, Alex encounters allies such as Hussein, a fierce mermaid warrior, and Jasper, a mysterious snelon, while also facing formidable adversaries including sea dragons, royal guards, and many others. To succeed, he will need to master his power as well as face his inner battles.
This novel stands out from several perspectives, but I will focus on three in particular:
1. The Protagonist: Alex is a teenager filled with doubts and uncertainties. A central strength of the story lies in exploring how his psychology shifts as he faces new challenges. His growth is not presented as a neat, linear transformation but rather as a turbulent evolution, driven largely by raw emotions. This complexity makes him both realistic and deeply engaging.
2. The Worldbuilding: Coulibaly’s depiction of Athrabia is rich with detail and atmosphere. Each setting – whether tranquil or perilous – is carefully shaped to engage all the senses. The immersive descriptions make the reader feel as though they have truly journeyed through the realm, experiencing its beauty and dangers firsthand.
3. Style and Artwork: The book’s layout is clean and inviting, while the prose flows with ease and elegance. Throughout the book, there are striking illustrations that captivate the eye, elevating it beyond a simple novel and into a work of art.
While the presence of mermaids may initially evoke Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid, the novel resonates more strongly with works such as Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Maracot Deep, Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Neil Gaiman’s The Ocean at the End of the Lane and Coraline, Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Sea of Monsters. I felt even – at moments – a slight touch of Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 (I will not elaborate further to avoid spoilers).
Conclusion
On the whole, Alexander & the Realm Beneath is a captivating read that I would recommend to any fantasy lover seeking a fresh adventure. With its mix of magic, peril, and unforgettable underwater creatures, it composes a melody that lingers long after the final page.
Along his journey, Alex encounters allies such as Hussein, a fierce mermaid warrior, and Jasper, a mysterious snelon, while also facing formidable adversaries including sea dragons, royal guards, and many others. To succeed, he will need to master his power as well as face his inner battles.
This novel stands out from several perspectives, but I will focus on three in particular:
1. The Protagonist: Alex is a teenager filled with doubts and uncertainties. A central strength of the story lies in exploring how his psychology shifts as he faces new challenges. His growth is not presented as a neat, linear transformation but rather as a turbulent evolution, driven largely by raw emotions. This complexity makes him both realistic and deeply engaging.
2. The Worldbuilding: Coulibaly’s depiction of Athrabia is rich with detail and atmosphere. Each setting – whether tranquil or perilous – is carefully shaped to engage all the senses. The immersive descriptions make the reader feel as though they have truly journeyed through the realm, experiencing its beauty and dangers firsthand.
3. Style and Artwork: The book’s layout is clean and inviting, while the prose flows with ease and elegance. Throughout the book, there are striking illustrations that captivate the eye, elevating it beyond a simple novel and into a work of art.
While the presence of mermaids may initially evoke Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid, the novel resonates more strongly with works such as Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Maracot Deep, Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Neil Gaiman’s The Ocean at the End of the Lane and Coraline, Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Sea of Monsters. I felt even – at moments – a slight touch of Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 (I will not elaborate further to avoid spoilers).
Conclusion
On the whole, Alexander & the Realm Beneath is a captivating read that I would recommend to any fantasy lover seeking a fresh adventure. With its mix of magic, peril, and unforgettable underwater creatures, it composes a melody that lingers long after the final page.
September 15, 2025
Alexander & the Realm Beneath is a refreshing fantasy adventure that swept me away from page one. At its heart, this is Alex’s story—a teenager who feels ordinary, even misplaced, until an accident throws him into the magical underwater world of Athrabia. Suddenly, he finds himself inhabiting the body of a mermaid, forced to confront both external dangers and his own inner struggles.
What I loved most is that Alex isn’t your typical flawless hero. He’s doubtful, emotional, and sometimes stubborn—but that’s exactly what makes him feel so real. Watching him grow through raw, turbulent experiences kept me hooked the entire way.
The worldbuilding is another highlight. Athrabia is richly imagined, filled with wonder and danger in equal measure—sea dragons, royal guards, mysterious creatures, and allies who feel just as vivid as the enemies. The descriptions are immersive enough that you can practically see the shimmering waters and feel the looming threats.
And the art! The illustrations sprinkled throughout make this more than a novel—it’s an experience. They pull you deeper into the story and add a unique touch I wasn’t expecting.
If you enjoy fantasy with mermaids, magic, and a protagonist who feels truly human, this is a must-read. Fans of Percy Jackson, The Ocean at the End of the Lane, or even classic underwater adventures will find a lot to love here. It’s an imaginative, emotional, and exciting journey that lingers long after the last page.
What I loved most is that Alex isn’t your typical flawless hero. He’s doubtful, emotional, and sometimes stubborn—but that’s exactly what makes him feel so real. Watching him grow through raw, turbulent experiences kept me hooked the entire way.
The worldbuilding is another highlight. Athrabia is richly imagined, filled with wonder and danger in equal measure—sea dragons, royal guards, mysterious creatures, and allies who feel just as vivid as the enemies. The descriptions are immersive enough that you can practically see the shimmering waters and feel the looming threats.
And the art! The illustrations sprinkled throughout make this more than a novel—it’s an experience. They pull you deeper into the story and add a unique touch I wasn’t expecting.
If you enjoy fantasy with mermaids, magic, and a protagonist who feels truly human, this is a must-read. Fans of Percy Jackson, The Ocean at the End of the Lane, or even classic underwater adventures will find a lot to love here. It’s an imaginative, emotional, and exciting journey that lingers long after the last page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2025
Alexander and the Realm Beneath is a heartfelt middle-grade fantasy that blends ordinary school life with an imaginative undersea world.
Alexander is a relatable hero, dealing with guilt, bullying, and family struggles, which makes his discovery of hidden powers and a larger destiny all the more compelling. The author does a wonderful job of grounding the story in real emotions while opening the door to a mythic realm full of danger and prophecy. The undersea world is creative and vivid, and there is a clear sense that this is just the beginning of a larger saga.
There are a few rough edges. The pacing in the early chapters leans a little heavily on everyday school and home details before reconnecting with the fantasy plot, and at times Alexander’s voice feels older than his age. These are minor issues, though, and the story’s heart shines through regardless.
Overall, this is a promising and imaginative debut with a lot of heart. I would be curious to see where the series goes next.
Alexander is a relatable hero, dealing with guilt, bullying, and family struggles, which makes his discovery of hidden powers and a larger destiny all the more compelling. The author does a wonderful job of grounding the story in real emotions while opening the door to a mythic realm full of danger and prophecy. The undersea world is creative and vivid, and there is a clear sense that this is just the beginning of a larger saga.
There are a few rough edges. The pacing in the early chapters leans a little heavily on everyday school and home details before reconnecting with the fantasy plot, and at times Alexander’s voice feels older than his age. These are minor issues, though, and the story’s heart shines through regardless.
Overall, this is a promising and imaginative debut with a lot of heart. I would be curious to see where the series goes next.
August 29, 2025
I absolutely loved this book from start to finish! Assana Coulibaly has such a magical way of blending adventure, mythology, and heartfelt character growth that kept me hooked the entire time.
The world-building was incredible—the Realm Beneath felt so vivid and alive, like I was actually journeying with Alexander through each new discovery. The twists and surprises made it impossible to put down.
(Spoilers ahead!)
One of my favorite parts was when Alexander finally unlocked the truth about his family’s connection to the Realm Beneath. That moment when he realized his journey wasn’t just about exploration, but about legacy and responsibility, was so powerful. I also loved the way the author wrote the confrontation scene at the end—it was filled with tension but also hope, and it wrapped up Alexander’s growth beautifully.
This book was such a refreshing and immersive read, and it’s one I’ll definitely revisit again. If you love fantasy adventures with heart, mystery, and memorable characters, I highly recommend Alexander and the Realm Beneath!
The world-building was incredible—the Realm Beneath felt so vivid and alive, like I was actually journeying with Alexander through each new discovery. The twists and surprises made it impossible to put down.
(Spoilers ahead!)
One of my favorite parts was when Alexander finally unlocked the truth about his family’s connection to the Realm Beneath. That moment when he realized his journey wasn’t just about exploration, but about legacy and responsibility, was so powerful. I also loved the way the author wrote the confrontation scene at the end—it was filled with tension but also hope, and it wrapped up Alexander’s growth beautifully.
This book was such a refreshing and immersive read, and it’s one I’ll definitely revisit again. If you love fantasy adventures with heart, mystery, and memorable characters, I highly recommend Alexander and the Realm Beneath!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
Alexander and the Realm Beneath swept me right off dry land and straight into an underwater kingdom full of mermaids, prophecies, and a very suspicious king. This book has that magical mix of fast-paced adventure and genuine character growth. You’ll laugh, you’ll cheer, and you’ll probably wish you could breathe underwater too.
The writing balances vivid, cinematic description with sharp emotion, flowing from tense, goosebump-worthy moments to witty asides that make Alex feel like a real kid you can’t help rooting for. That balance makes the book easy to read but never shallow, and it hits hard in all the right places.
In short: it's an adventure with a hero worth following and a world worth diving into. I'd recommend it for fantasy fans who are ready to rediscover the magic of a good story. If you love stories about finding your courage, standing up to villains, and realizing you’re worth more than you ever believed (who doesn’t?), this is your next read.
The writing balances vivid, cinematic description with sharp emotion, flowing from tense, goosebump-worthy moments to witty asides that make Alex feel like a real kid you can’t help rooting for. That balance makes the book easy to read but never shallow, and it hits hard in all the right places.
In short: it's an adventure with a hero worth following and a world worth diving into. I'd recommend it for fantasy fans who are ready to rediscover the magic of a good story. If you love stories about finding your courage, standing up to villains, and realizing you’re worth more than you ever believed (who doesn’t?), this is your next read.
August 31, 2025
This story is honestly so good — I got completely lost in it while reading, which says a lot about the writing. The way the author built the world and set the tone immediately pulled me in, and the descriptions are so vivid that it felt like a movie playing out in my head.
The characters already feel layered and real, and the way the author balance emotion, tension, and action makes the plot super engaging. I love how the writing flows — it’s easy to follow but still rich with detail, which makes it really hard to put down.
Overall, this story is creative, well-paced, and full of intrigue. It’s one of those reads where you can tell the author put real passion into it, and it definitely kept me hooked from start to finish!
The characters already feel layered and real, and the way the author balance emotion, tension, and action makes the plot super engaging. I love how the writing flows — it’s easy to follow but still rich with detail, which makes it really hard to put down.
Overall, this story is creative, well-paced, and full of intrigue. It’s one of those reads where you can tell the author put real passion into it, and it definitely kept me hooked from start to finish!
August 15, 2025
I will first say, I hope that there is more to this story, which it sounds as though it will be part of a series. And what a great start to a series. Alex goes from getting picked on all the time at school to being the key to saving an underwater kingdom! Packed full of adventure in a new and unknown world, and full of stubborn grit, this adventure with Alex and Kamala will have you holding your breath and asking ‘what just happened?!’
August 25, 2025
I really liked how real the characters in the book felt and I also liked the creativity in the book, I think people who enjoy YA and fantasy would really like this book
August 30, 2025
The book was absolutely amazing, I would love to read another book by this author. I would also love another book in this series. The entire book just drew me in, I love how they explained everything, it felt like I was in the book.
September 5, 2025
C.S. Lewis once said that a children's story enjoyed only by children is not a good children's story. "Alexander and the Realm Beneath" is a shining example of a story that brilliantly transcends its target audience. As an adult who still loves a great fantasy adventure, I was completely swept away by this book. It’s a powerful reminder that a well-told story of heroism, discovery, and magic knows no age limit.
This novel has everything a good story should have. The plot is gripping, with exciting twists that genuinely surprised me and kept me eagerly turning the pages. The author has crafted a colorful, unique, and utterly fascinating world in the kingdom beneath the sea. It feels both magical and real, with its own history, conflicts, and lore that are gradually unveiled.
What brings the story to life are the likeable and relatable characters. You can't help but root for the protagonist, Alex, as he's thrust from a life of obscurity into a destiny he never could have imagined. As a man, I can say with certainty that this book is not "girly" in the slightest, even though it is a story about mermaids and mermen. The themes of courage, battling evil, and finding one's place are universal, and the action will keep any reader engaged. This is a fantastic adventure story for both genders.
I absolutely loved "Alexander and the Realm Beneath" and am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series! Highly recommended.
This novel has everything a good story should have. The plot is gripping, with exciting twists that genuinely surprised me and kept me eagerly turning the pages. The author has crafted a colorful, unique, and utterly fascinating world in the kingdom beneath the sea. It feels both magical and real, with its own history, conflicts, and lore that are gradually unveiled.
What brings the story to life are the likeable and relatable characters. You can't help but root for the protagonist, Alex, as he's thrust from a life of obscurity into a destiny he never could have imagined. As a man, I can say with certainty that this book is not "girly" in the slightest, even though it is a story about mermaids and mermen. The themes of courage, battling evil, and finding one's place are universal, and the action will keep any reader engaged. This is a fantastic adventure story for both genders.
I absolutely loved "Alexander and the Realm Beneath" and am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series! Highly recommended.
September 5, 2025
Pure magic. This book sweeps you from the first page into an undersea world that feels discovered, not invented-glittering courts, watchful merfolk, real danger-and anchors it all to a hero you can’t help rooting for. Alexander is funny, vulnerable, stubborn in the best way; his voice carries the story with heart and momentum. The plot moves-tight set pieces, clever twists, a finale that hits hard and lands hopeful-and the world-building is vivid without ever slowing down the read
What impressed me most is the balance: big, cinematic moments alongside small, honest beats about courage, family, and choosing who you’ll be. Side characters aren’t just set dressing; even those who stand against Alex have believable reasons, which raises the stakes and makes the wins feel earned. The prose is clean and confident, the humor lands, and the reveals pay off.
If you crave fast, funny quest fantasy with real heart this is your next obsession. If adventure with teeth sounds right, clear your weekend-this one hooks and holds. Five stars, easy-and I’m already clearing a spot on the shelf for book two.
What impressed me most is the balance: big, cinematic moments alongside small, honest beats about courage, family, and choosing who you’ll be. Side characters aren’t just set dressing; even those who stand against Alex have believable reasons, which raises the stakes and makes the wins feel earned. The prose is clean and confident, the humor lands, and the reveals pay off.
If you crave fast, funny quest fantasy with real heart this is your next obsession. If adventure with teeth sounds right, clear your weekend-this one hooks and holds. Five stars, easy-and I’m already clearing a spot on the shelf for book two.
September 20, 2025
A fast-paced, imaginative fantasy that completely drew me in. I couldn’t put it down until I reached the final page. What really stands out is the cast of charismatic characters. From the brave but reluctant Alex to the sharp and mysterious Kamala (yes, even the snail man grew on me!), the story is full of unique voices that stay with you. The villain is more than just evil: there's a tragic weight to his choices, and the emotional payoff deepens all the way to the final chapters, with key revelations that reshape the journey.
The world-building is vivid and fluid, especially the way magic is portrayed. It's not overexplained, but it's smoothly integrated into the culture and challenges of the underwater realm. It feels natural, mysterious, and alive.
I'd absolutely recommend this to younger readers. Ages 10 to 16 would be the perfect audience, but fantasy lovers of any age could enjoy the ride. I kept thinking this would make a fantastic animated miniseries. Short, powerful, full of heart.
An exciting adventure that balances wonder with real stakes.
The world-building is vivid and fluid, especially the way magic is portrayed. It's not overexplained, but it's smoothly integrated into the culture and challenges of the underwater realm. It feels natural, mysterious, and alive.
I'd absolutely recommend this to younger readers. Ages 10 to 16 would be the perfect audience, but fantasy lovers of any age could enjoy the ride. I kept thinking this would make a fantastic animated miniseries. Short, powerful, full of heart.
An exciting adventure that balances wonder with real stakes.
August 25, 2025
Alex doesn’t want to be a hero. He just wants a room that feels like his and a day without trouble. Then the floor drops out, straight into an underwater kingdom where mermaids are real and a false king calls the shots.
What I liked most is how the book treats Alex’s fear and stubbornness with respect. He messes up, learns, and keeps going. He wants home, not glory, and that makes his wins feel earned. The sea world is vivid without getting heavy; the action moves, but there’s space for quiet moments too. Kamala, Hussein, and Jasper are interesting, though I wished for a little more time with them and a couple of conversations that came sooner.
The story balances wonder with bite: bright reefs, dark threats, and a kid figuring out who he is when no one else will decide for him. Fast, clear, and inviting, it’s a fresh dive for younger fantasy readers and anyone who likes their adventures bold but grounded. I’m ready for book two.
What I liked most is how the book treats Alex’s fear and stubbornness with respect. He messes up, learns, and keeps going. He wants home, not glory, and that makes his wins feel earned. The sea world is vivid without getting heavy; the action moves, but there’s space for quiet moments too. Kamala, Hussein, and Jasper are interesting, though I wished for a little more time with them and a couple of conversations that came sooner.
The story balances wonder with bite: bright reefs, dark threats, and a kid figuring out who he is when no one else will decide for him. Fast, clear, and inviting, it’s a fresh dive for younger fantasy readers and anyone who likes their adventures bold but grounded. I’m ready for book two.
August 13, 2025
The writing style of this book has a stronger than usual voice for a debut book. There's no rolling your eyes at cheesy beginner writing, it's clear that they know what they're doing. Alex going from an ordinary boring boy, to that of a fantastic, wonder filled life is certainly not something new, but Alexander brings a fresh take on a comfortable and enjoyable trope. With a complex threat looming below the waves, I found it compelling how Assan brought a sense of reality to the watcher movement by later on introducing us to characters that weren't evil, yet they were still against him. It's a good read, and a promising author, not to mention the cover is beautiful. I also liked the little art pieces scattered through the book at the start of some chapters. Definitely check this out if you're into a Percy Jacksonish type of fantasy.
September 12, 2025
*INCLUDES SMALL SPOILERS* 🌹🌹✨
Okay, it was...amazing. I don't want to spoil anything for readers, but, gosh, it was exciting. The first lines hooked me from the start. There were times I wanted to scream: KAMALA SHUT UP. Like girl, stop being a walking dictionary for once! (I ship Alex and Kamala together though. Like cmon! That scene in the dungeons?)
There were twists where I hadn't even dared to expect it.
Like wow Assana. Did you have to make Alex FORGET THE WHOLE THING AT THE END???
Alex was definitely my favorite character, though. So funny, selfish at times, but honestly a genius. By the end, I didn’t want it to stop!! W read.
If this is a series, and the second book comes out...I'm buying it first >:D
Seriously so excited. It's like Harry potter but extravagantly better. Harry Potter meets Percy Jackson, and Percy Jackson meets Alexander!!
November 6, 2025
I don't normally love fantasy books, so it's safe to say I wasn't expecting anything amazing. After completing it, though, I'm happy to say that I was pleasantly surprised! From the beginning, the author pulled me in with Alexander's rough school life and immersed me in a vivid world. The plot was a little tricky to follow at times (hence the four-star rating), but I thought the use of descriptive language and imagery was very impressive. I also thought that the underwater world of Athrabia was original and had some really excellent world-building. Then there were the mermaids, dark secrets, and twisty psychological turns that kept me captivated even in the lengthier parts. Overall, definitely a book I would want to re-read and certainly would recommend for anyone looking for a great fantasy.
Thanks to Assana for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Thanks to Assana for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
October 2, 2025
Alexander and the Realm Beneath is ambitious work by a new author. It's YA Fantasy fiction and it delivers what that target audience likes to read. If you believe in magic and unbelievable worlds, I imagine this story is just what you are looking for.
But this book does have its flaws: It could use another deep edit to polish it up. The plot line seems to wander a bit and could be better focused. Staying with the focus theme, there is a huge cast of characters that probably could be rationalized down. As for consistency: The MMC has magic powers, then later he has none. That same magic powers issue also holds true for the FMC.
All this said, Alexander and the Realm Beneath had its moments and was entertaining.
But this book does have its flaws: It could use another deep edit to polish it up. The plot line seems to wander a bit and could be better focused. Staying with the focus theme, there is a huge cast of characters that probably could be rationalized down. As for consistency: The MMC has magic powers, then later he has none. That same magic powers issue also holds true for the FMC.
All this said, Alexander and the Realm Beneath had its moments and was entertaining.
October 3, 2025
Alexander and the Realm Beneath is ambitious work by a new author. It's YA Fantasy fiction and it delivers what that target audience likes to read. If you believe in magic and unbelievable worlds, I imagine this story is just what you are looking for.
But this book does have its flaws: It could use another deep edit to polish it up. The plot line seems to wander a bit and could be better focused. Staying with the focus theme, there is a huge cast of characters that probably could be rationalized down. As for consistency: The MMC has magic powers, then later he has none. That same magic powers issue also holds true for the FMC.
All this said, Alexander and the Realm Beneath had its moments and was entertaining.
But this book does have its flaws: It could use another deep edit to polish it up. The plot line seems to wander a bit and could be better focused. Staying with the focus theme, there is a huge cast of characters that probably could be rationalized down. As for consistency: The MMC has magic powers, then later he has none. That same magic powers issue also holds true for the FMC.
All this said, Alexander and the Realm Beneath had its moments and was entertaining.
October 12, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
If you are a fan of The Little Mermaid and the DCOM The 13th Year, then you will love this book. This book I feel is definitely more targeted towards teens (mainly middle school) as the main characters are roughly 11-13. There were some inconsistencies within the book, mainly with timelines and characters, and it took away from it a little as I was reading. But other than those few instances, the book was a fun little read. It has change and growth of the main character, along with our main character finding the strength within himself to finally stand up for what he wants to do instead of being pushed along. This would be a great read for teens, and many may find similarities within themselves and some of the characters. Overall, and very nice book and plot.
If you are a fan of The Little Mermaid and the DCOM The 13th Year, then you will love this book. This book I feel is definitely more targeted towards teens (mainly middle school) as the main characters are roughly 11-13. There were some inconsistencies within the book, mainly with timelines and characters, and it took away from it a little as I was reading. But other than those few instances, the book was a fun little read. It has change and growth of the main character, along with our main character finding the strength within himself to finally stand up for what he wants to do instead of being pushed along. This would be a great read for teens, and many may find similarities within themselves and some of the characters. Overall, and very nice book and plot.
August 24, 2025
It's a tale as old as time: someone with a hidden power is plucked from his world and dropped into a new one, being literally chosen to save their realm.
Except Alex didn't want to be a hero. In fact, he's still a kid. And he just wants to go home.
I found the book engaging, with Alex slowly maturing over the course of it. Though the number of times I wanted to reach in and shake someone, to tell them "just open your mouth and TALK to each other" was aggravating. Looking at you, Kamala.
Anyway. The kids act believably as kids, and the story is told well. Definitely worth picking up if you've got kids of your own.
Except Alex didn't want to be a hero. In fact, he's still a kid. And he just wants to go home.
I found the book engaging, with Alex slowly maturing over the course of it. Though the number of times I wanted to reach in and shake someone, to tell them "just open your mouth and TALK to each other" was aggravating. Looking at you, Kamala.
Anyway. The kids act believably as kids, and the story is told well. Definitely worth picking up if you've got kids of your own.
September 19, 2025
Alessandro e il regno sotto di Assana K. Coulibaly è una fantasia incantevole che ti afferra fin dall'inizio. La storia mescola mistero, avventura e scoperta di sé in un modo che sembra fresco e coinvolgente. La scrittura dell'autore è vivida e coinvolgente, dipingendo un magico mondo sottomarino pieno di pericoli, bellezza e segreti in attesa di essere rivelati. Alexander è un personaggio per cui i lettori faranno il tifo: il suo viaggio non è solo emozionante, ma anche profondamente riconoscibile, rendendo il libro sia emozionante che sincero. Questa è una lettura accattivante per gli amanti del fantasy di tutte le età e una storia che ti lascerà desideroso di saperne di più.
October 12, 2025
"Alexander and The Realm Beneath" is an unputdownable young adult fantasy adventure that plunges the reader into a vibrant and dangerous underwater kingdom. We follow Alex, an ordinary teenager who discovers a heroic destiny when he is transported to the magical Athrabia, a world of merfolk, monsters, and ancient secrets. With a fast-paced plot, captivating characters, and spectacular world-building, the book is a thrilling journey about finding courage, the true meaning of friendship, and fighting for a better world. It's the perfect read for anyone who loves a story full of action, magic, and heart, with twists that will leave you eager for more.
September 24, 2025
I don’t always read fantasy, but this book hooked me from the first few pages. It’s dark, immersive, and full of emotional tension—following Alex as he’s swept into rebellion, faced with cruel choices, and confronted by both human and mystical forces. The character arcs are surprisingly deep, and even as someone not usually drawn to fantasy worlds, I loved the original chants and lore sprinkled throughout the story. The author balances vivid world-building and fast-paced action with real heart, making this a captivating read for fans and newcomers to the genre alike
August 29, 2025
This book gripped me right from the start! I love the underwater world building and the description of all the sea creatures. The writing is easy to follow and gives a fun, adventurous, and mysterious vibe. The author has a way with words that increases the suspense and mystery as you go and keeps you reading to find the answers. The prologue is very exciting and the way Alex is introduced into the mermaid realm is very creative. Highly recommend for lovers of fantasy and mermaids.
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