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The Book of Destiny

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'They were never meant to survive this world … they were born to remake it in magik.'

When four orphaned siblings arrive at a remote Scottish castle to live with a mysterious guardian, they have no idea what waits beyond its ancient stones: A veiled prophecy. A legendary labyrinth that knows their names. And a Book that doesn’t just tell a story - it writes destiny itself.

Catapulted into Liminalia, a hidden world of timeless magik, Orla, Ailsa, Finn and Hamish uncover a strange truth. They are not just children. They are sworn to an oath older than time, bound to the blood of kings and something, or someone, is hunting them.

To survive, they must awaken the magik buried deep within them. Not wandwork nor spells, but memory, will, courage and the primal magik that shaped the worlds before time began.

But in a world of riddles, tricksters, lost kings and queens and ancient oaths, the greatest danger may not be the one chasing them … It may be the one already inside. An extraordinary journey is about to begin.

The Book of Destiny is the first volume in The Lost Magik of Liminalia, a sweeping, mythic fantasy adventure about the return of true magik, the courage to rewrite fate, and the quest to reclaim who we truly are.

Paperback

Published October 20, 2025

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About the author

S.L. Realta

2 books24 followers
Internationally acclaimed author S L Realta writes her unique books to open people to the wonder of magik. Her profound, thought-provoking novels catapult readers into thrilling, spell-binding adventures where the paranormal becomes normal and fiction becomes fact.

Published across the globe under different pen-names (including Skarlet Lu Realta), S L Realta has appeared on television, film, news and radio, addressing audiences from Australia to Antarctica. She mentors people all around the world and has established a real Academy of Magik, born within the pages of her books. An adventure junkie, Realta loves to explore the mythology and landscapes of the many remote and unusual places that become the backdrop to her stories.

She has immersed herself in the company of scientists, linguists, theosophists, archaeologists, hermetics and historians, to name but a few, decoding thousands of years of unsolved mythology as part of the epic stories she writes. Her books seamlessly weave and transcend many existing genres into an entirely new genre of its own: Magik

From the earliest age, Realta believed the world to be magik yet, like many of us, she shut that away when she was told that magik only existed in fairy tales. For 16 years, she threw herself into a highly successful career in International finance until, one snow-bound December day in Edinburgh Castle, that all changed. A series of extraordinary events saw her leave her old life behind as writing became her passion and she followed a new path to explore the remarkable generative magik of story.

Realta is currently writing her first YA series. Book One, has received wonderful early ARC feedback from young people and adults alike. This book series ‘came’ to Skarlet in its entirety just hours after the sudden passing of her beloved mother in 2021 and is, what she believes to be, her greatest work: her Magnum Opus. For more info see https://www.slrealtawrites.com/ (less)

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Laura Smith.
517 reviews21 followers
August 21, 2025
THE LOST MAGIK OF LIMINALIA.
THE BOOK OF DESTINY BY S L. REALTA.
Book 1.
Release date set for the 20th of October 2025.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
I absolutely adored this book.
I loved every single thing about it.
Great characters.
Great story.
I would highly recommend this book to adults and children who love a magik adventure.
This is a new to me author and can't wait for the rest of this brilliant series ☺
1 review1 follower
August 9, 2025
This book had me hooked from the first paragraph. I am impressed with the immersive world-building. There is so much depth to the characters with strong character development throughout the story. The protagonists are both believable and relatable.

S.L Realta has done a wonderful job of creating a really interesting and fun story that's full of adventure and wisdom. What struck me is how the story manages to be both entertaining and a reminder of how we each have magik within us that can be tapped into.

I highly recommend this book. It's a great read for children and adults who love adventure, mystery, humour, quirky characters, and magik.
38 reviews
October 20, 2025
I was very fortunate to receive a ARC copy of this book and WOW what an amazing book this was, definitely worth the 5 ⭐️ The details in this book went above and beyond for the characters to the different worlds I felt like I was in the book not just reading it. Is definitely worth a read if you haven’t read it before! I can not wait to read the rest of the series
Profile Image for Claire-Louise  Armstrong-Brealey.
218 reviews10 followers
September 13, 2025
First time of reading this author and I will definitely be back for more.

I love learning new things and this has opened my eyes to Scotland in a wonderful way. I didn't know the divisions in centuries past and I love that I do now.

The story itself is intriguing and well-paced. The characters are well described and we learn more and more of them as we go along.

I am looking forward to the next in the series.
2 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2025
This book is pure magik - alive with vivid imaginings that swept me away from the very first page. I recognized myself in many of the characters and found myself feeling my way through their journey - chuckling at moments of levity, shedding tears at depths, and remembering pieces of my own life reflected back to me. The pace is exhilarating, carrying you through a spectacular adventure full of twists and turns that never let go. It is more than just a story - its an echo, a mirror, a reminder of something deeply personal. If you want to understand why, you'll simply have to read it for yourself. This is the next big thing!
Profile Image for HelpYourShelf.
1 review
October 20, 2025
Enchants from Page One: First Chapter Read from Postie to Doorstep!

A resonant coming-of-age story where magikal tropes mirror human truths and connections are made between the echoes of loss and belonging.

Four bereft siblings become embroiled in a rollercoaster of riddles as they race to make sense of their past, present and future. Can they navigate the dangers in Liminalia with little more than a handful of life lessons, a few curiosities and a pocketful of courage?

The protagonists are delightfully flawed and the prose paints vividly imagined cities in a world where magik is reawakening. Realta's research shines through, grounding the fantasy in layers of history and mythology that deepen its emotional pull.

Reminiscent of childhood favourites such as Ursula K Le Guin and C S Lewis, The Book of Destiny is a heartfelt beginning to what promises to be an unforgettable seven-part journey!
Profile Image for LisaJ.
7 reviews5 followers
October 28, 2025
This book was too addictive I just couldn’t put it down! The writing, the plot, the tension, the build up and the characters! It’s got it all!
Skarlet R has really created her own diverse and immersive world! I just couldn’t stop reading and know I will definitely be diving back into a re-read soon enough!
Profile Image for Jane Butterworth.
1 review
September 6, 2025
Wowsers! What a page turner. Could not put this book down! A powerful story which unfolds into a magikal mystery, transports you to a magikal land and immerses you in realms of wonder.

There are messages for all ages in the initiations that the four children encounter. There is no going back. Their characters grow as they face their fears and success comes as they discover their inner gifts! How you discover and use your powerful gift can be subtle and is not always the most obvious. It is how these powers are discovered that makes this is a story with a difference.

This author, S.L.Realta, has a gift of writing at pace and yet delivering powerful descriptions to ignite your imagination. She draws you in and soon you are riding with them to each of the realms, all so vastly different from each other.

This is a block buster in the making! A 'not to be missed' book and one of 7! I can't wait for adventure 2 to begin.
Profile Image for Tracy.
64 reviews7 followers
December 15, 2025
I was very fortunate to receive a ARC copy of this book and WOW what an amazing book it has had me hooked from the first chapter to the last. This is book one of a series of 7 books of which I can wait to read more of. This is the first time I have read anything by this author and for sure they are going to be on my list to read further books. The world building the character building was as they say the ‘chefs kiss’ highly highly recommend it’s work every one of the 5 ⭐️’s and more


S.L. Realta
21 reviews
December 6, 2025
The Book of Destiny launches The Lost Magik of Liminalia series with an engaging blend of myth, mystery, and character-driven storytelling. S. L. Realta builds a vivid, carefully layered world where ancient magik and hidden histories shape every choice the characters make. The protagonist’s journey is compelling and emotionally grounded, supported by a cast that feels purposeful and well-drawn. Realta’s prose is polished, the pacing steady, and the unfolding mystery promises an expansive, intriguing series ahead.
Profile Image for Brittany.
471 reviews10 followers
December 29, 2025
When 4 siblings are suddenly orphaned, they find themselves thrust into the magical world of Liminalia. They must learn to understand themselves to unlock their true magical potential as they make friends who help them journey to find the "Book of Destiny", the only way they can return to the real world.

This book is perfect for middle grade readers. If you have a child that loved Narnia or A series of unfortunate events, they will definitely enjoy this book! This coming of age story is full of magic and adventure and follows a family of four siblings as they learn to accept who they really are.

For me this read a bit young to be enjoyable for an adult, but it would definitely be a good series to read along with your kid. I felt the quest to be a bit formulaic as we had to watch all 4 kids unlock their potential, then fight the final bad guy to reveal their destiny. I also think that the magic system was a bit too soft for me. The "magik" just worked when they needed it to with little explanation or rules. But I think this will be great for young readers who are new to the fantasy genre and looking to get into their first series about magic.

Thanks so much to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Charlotte Von Crease.
2 reviews
September 30, 2025

I found that it was a beautifully crafted story that resonated with me deeply, not only for its engaging plot and imaginative world-building, but especially for the powerful message it shares with young readers. The writer has weaved a narrative that encourages self-belief, resilience, and the importance of trusting your own path—an empowering reminder that what is meant for you will never miss you.
I was especially moved by the way the book tackles the theme of destiny without boxing characters into rigid roles and how they have to complement eachother to survive.

Instead, it shows that while life might throw you twists and turns, your choices and your inner compass matter most, even when asking for help. This is such an important message for young people navigating their way in the world. It reminds them—and all of us—that we are the authors of our own stories.

I truly loved how it balanced magical adventure with deep emotional truth. I look forward to The Genie’s Lair when the adventure for our four protagonists REALLY begins.
Profile Image for Jessica Penley.
45 reviews
November 6, 2025
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the physical copy of Lost Magik of Liminalia: The Book of Destiny by S L Realta. I am grateful for the opportunity to have read it. YA Novel which gave me a break from my original genre.
Orla, Ailsa, Finn, and Hamish are orphaned siblings who, following a house fire, are sent to live with their distant relative, Mr. Dal Riata in Edinburgh. They inadvertently become trapped in Liminalia, a magical world, where they must discover their true selves in order to gain freedom. Throughout the book, the magical world is captivating. The author's meticulous details and descriptions are truly uplifting, effectively transporting the reader to this world. The characters are likable, yet imperfect, making them relatable and human. I appreciated this aspect, as it highlights that individuals are not flawless and must work together to discover their true selves, a concept the author skillfully conveys. Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The plot was well-executed, and the author did an exemplary job.
Profile Image for Amber Westby.
3 reviews3 followers
September 30, 2025

The Book of Destiny by S.L. Réalta is such a strong start to the Lost Magik of Liminalia series. From the very first chapters, I was pulled into this enchanting world and didn’t want to leave.

The story follows 4 siblings whose journey feels both magical and deeply personal after such a monumental loss. I loved how the author blended ancient magik, adventure, and self-discovery—it made the story feel layered and meaningful without ever being slow. The world-building is beautiful and vivid, and you can tell this series has so much more to uncover.

It’s the kind of fantasy that works for both YA and adult readers, especially if you enjoy character-driven stories with rich settings. By the end, I was already excited for the next book—I can’t wait to see where the story goes in future books…

Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a fresh and magical fantasy read! ✨📖
1 review
October 19, 2025
In my opinion, SL Realta has written a magikal masterpiece. The depth to, and wisdom in her writing transcends time and place and reminds one of the ancient knowing and the magikal qualities within ourselves and everything that surrounds us. Not only was I swept away and transported into the magikal world of Liminalia from page one, I wanted to reside in her mysterious world long after finishing the book. A yearning that only the great and profound stories can leave behind as a lingering trail of magikal dust. I was spellbound by the mystery of the chanter, Angus and the Great Mother of Magik, and so immensely impressed with the layers of storylines in this book. In a story where nothing is as it seems, everything was as it should be. A sublime read and, in a way, a homecoming to the true and magikal ways of the world. I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
2 reviews
September 19, 2025
I’m completely obsessed with 'The Book Of Destiny' and indeed the magikal world of Liminalia! From the very first page it had me hooked — heart-felt, fast-paced, exciting, and full of twists that kept me reading late into the night. The world of Liminalia is breathtaking and alive, the characters unforgettable, and the magik woven through every moment feels real.

I honestly couldn’t put it down and I cannot wait for the second book to arrive. This is a journey I’ll never forget, and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves magik and fantasy that pulls you in completely and stays with you long after the last page.
1 review
October 8, 2025
“The Book Of Destiny” is a visually tangible, throughly imaginative journey of the senses, brimming with resplendent sensation. A compellingly moving adventure that was hard to put down. I would have read it all in one go if my eyes would have permitted it! 
What I love most about the story is the fact that it is real. Based on worldly places, sacred sites, cultural history, ancient mythology, and alchemical principles. The magik dripping from its pages felt second nature to my soul. Easy to read with a light hearted flare. I look forward to reading Book Two. - Aoife
Profile Image for T || .
179 reviews
October 9, 2025
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult

i enjoyed this read. And spoke with SL & was given some secrets with regards to the cover. Which i was in awe with and it draw me to the book even before knowing it.
Overall, an exciting read. You get tied to the 4 siblings instantly. Parts caused me anxiety with worry, some made me want to cry lol.

The detailing was amazing in this book, and all the descriptions of the different world and the Magik

Recommend this if you enjoy fantasy.
1 review
September 22, 2025
I didn’t know what to expect when I got this book but within the first few chapters I went on an adventure of fantasy, mystery, and philosophical exploration. The story is a real journey into a world where reality and the unknown coexist in fascinating ways. A really lovely read for adults and children - I can’t wait for the next one! If you’re looking for an exciting read - this is the book!
1 review
October 7, 2025
This was such an interesting book!! There's so much more to it than meets the eye, the author has woven in wisdom and deep truths in such a magical way, it makes this book brilliant for both young readers and adults alike. Plus I loved the ending! Can't wait for book 2!!
Profile Image for Myranda Herald.
36 reviews4 followers
October 24, 2025
I took my time with this book but I was hooked on it it may be a little confusing at first but I promise it won’t disappoint push through it cause in the end my mind was blown away
Profile Image for Oops I ARC'd Again.
55 reviews
September 29, 2025
!!OFFICIAL ARC REVIEW!!

This book gave me Narnia feels and brought back the exact wonder I had when I first cracked open Harry Potter. That’s the level of magic we’re dealing with here.

The world-building? Seamless. No heavy info dumps — just pure immersion. One chapter you’re in familiar territory, and the next you’re tangled in Scottish folklore and mythology, woven in so effortlessly it feels like it’s always been there. Honestly, I caught myself reading half this book in a Scottish accent without even trying (you’ll see what I mean when you get to it).

And honestly? This story felt like a breath of fresh air in the fantasy genre. Light, fun, magical, but still rich enough to sink your teeth into.

The beauty of The Lost Magik of Liminalia is that it’s for everyone. Younger readers (10+) will fall headfirst into the adventure, YA readers will devour the mystery and tension, and adults will find themselves hooked by the depth and folklore threads. It’s that rare story you can read together as a family and still each take away something magical.

This book carved out a permanent spot in my heart. It’s cozy, it’s wondrous, it’s sharp when it needs to be, and it made me feel like a kid again. Fantasy readers, parents, and anyone looking to remember why they fell in love with reading — you need this book on your shelf.

And now I cannot wait for the second book — because if this is how the journey begins, I already know the sequel is going to soar.
Profile Image for Rima Ayoub .
119 reviews16 followers
October 13, 2025
The Book of Destiny Liminalia is a mesmerizing start to a seven book series that had my daughter and I completely captivated. From the first page, S.L. Realta immerses us into a world that is magical, mysterious, and vividly real.

The story follows four orphaned siblings as they arrive at a remote Scottish castle, where hidden powers, ancient myths, and dangerous magic awaits them. Realta’s worldbuilding is stunning. The castle, the landscapes, and the lore of Liminalia all feel alive, rich, and utterly enchanting.

What makes this book truly shine are the characters. The siblings’ relationships, struggles, and growth feel authentic and emotionally resonant. Every challenge they face, every revelation of hidden magic, pulls you deeper into their journey. The story balances suspense, heart, and wonder, keeping the pages turning with a perfect mix of tension.

The destiny of Liminalia is fresh and intriguing, blending myth, fantasy, and paranormal elements seamlessly. There are surprises, secrets, and moments of triumph that land beautifully, making this a story that lingers long after the last page.

The Book of Destiny Liminalia is a brilliant beginning to a series we can’t wait to continue. Five stars without hesitation.
13 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2025
What a great read. I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book as at first I thought ' oh another book like so many others' but I was pleasantly surprised when I found myself immersed into the story and had difficulty putting it down. Although this is a book written for a young teen audience I, as an older adukt, thoroughly enjoyed the read. It starts off in a slightly similar vein to the Narnia series but quickly dispels the thought of ' not another one of those books' into a much better, in my opinion, story. The story takes you from England to Scotland, to the land of Liminalia, then back to Scotland. This story had all the main characters taking an equal role, but in very different ways, to each other, thereby rounding out their characters without boring you with excessive information. I am not going to give anything away by going over the story in detail, or boring you with retelling the blurb, just to say that if blurb catches your attention go ahead and read the book, it is well worth it.
2 reviews
September 17, 2025
From the very first page the reader is catapulted into the most descriptive images as the scene is set for the wonder that follows. A real spell binding page-turner, I found myself deliberately taking it slow, rationing myself to a chapter or 2 a day in order to savour the fabulous way the author brings all the characters and creatures to life. I didn’t even have to close my eyes to see the colours, textures and scenery so vivid are the descriptions. The challenges the children must face will surely resonate on some level with everyone, creating a bond and empathy with each of them (even the slightly annoying Hamish ;-)) that has you rooting for them and believing in the magik they must remember that they have. To say I was disappointed when I realised this first instalment was at an end is an understatement. That’s my main grumble with kindle vs real books - you don’t get the feeling of how far you have to go so with a great book like this the ending is always a bit unexpected. Roll on book 2 is all I can say!
1 review1 follower
September 3, 2025
🌟The Book of Destiny🌟 - The Lost Magik of Liminalia - Book 1

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I feel truly blessed to have received an advanced copy of this magikal book. From the very first page, I was transported into a world so vivid and alive that it played like a film in my imagination. I wasn’t simply reading, I was living the story.

The author’s gift lies in her ability to weave words that make you laugh, cry and fall deeply in love with each character. Every twist of the storyline was enthralling, pulling me further into the adventure until I became part of it myself.

Although written in the young adult genre, this book transcends age. It’s a timeless reminder that the magik we seek is already within us. Its themes speak to the dreamer, the seeker, and the believer in all of us.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is an experience, not just a read.
I am already eagerly awaiting the next instalment in this enchanting series.
11 reviews1 follower
September 29, 2025
I feel so lucky to have been able to read the ARC of this book as it has opened up a whole new world for me.
We join four orphaned siblings as they head for their new life in Scotland, but they are drawn into the world of Liminalia and begin their search for The Book of Destiny as well as a journey of discovery of family, strength and love.
S L Realta writes beautifully, both the wilds of Scotland and the realms of Liminalia are brought to life, and her character building of the children and others that they meet along the way is so colourful and vivid that the book was easy to visualise and feel part of.
As an adult, this was a thoroughly charming, engrossing read. One that also reminded me of the importance of facing up to our fears and making them into a strength - unleashing the magik within us.
This is a book that will appeal across the ages. My 11 year old daughter is about to start reading it, and I hope that we will be able to read book 2 together.
1 review
September 19, 2025
Young adult/fantasy genre is not my usual go-to! My comfort zone is romance/thriller/biography. Unexpectedly I found this book utterly captivating, reading it all in two sittings on the same day!

A key theme in the book is grief. Being careful not to give too much away here.....the book allows the siblings to be reunited with their parents & hear wise words. They are left knowing the parents are with them in spirit.

The joyful Scottishness in the book has helped to dilute my harsh childhood memories from England's industrial market town known as 'Little Scotland'. Instead when I close my eyes I am transported to my holidays in Orkney, Edinburgh, Skara Brae, the broch and the wee hooses on the Isle of Lewes.

This was a really positive and uplifting read! I feel a lot chirpier after reading this book. Cannae wait fay the next one!
Profile Image for Nathalie.
18 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2025
It's a story that reminds me a lot of The Chronicles of Narnia, from the four siblings to the journey to this unknown world, books that I really enjoyed as a child, so if you like this series of books you will definitely enjoy this one.

I think my only "but" is that the magic system as such has no real explanation, it worked when it haves to because it haves to, also that those challenges that had to be completed felt very cliché within the formula of the hero's path, however with that I'm not saying it's bad, just that I would have liked a little more development in this regard.

I genuinely think it's a good read, especially for reading with children or pre-teens. It will be a great series to motivate them to keep reading, especially if they enjoy magical series.

This book was provided to me in exchange of an honest Review💖 thanks you very much to the team
61 reviews4 followers
November 12, 2025
The Book of Destiny is a spellbinding dive into mythic fantasy, lush, lyrical, and full of wonder. S.L. Realta crafts a world where magik feels truly ancient and alive, shimmering with both danger and beauty. The four siblings are instantly compelling, each carrying secrets and courage in equal measure, and the Scottish castle setting is pure atmospheric perfection.

What makes this story stand out is how it fuses heart and myth. The prophecy and labyrinth unfold with the rhythm of legend, but at its core, this is a story about family, identity, and the courage to face what’s written in (and beyond) destiny. The prose hums with a quiet power that lingers long after the final page.

For fans of The Chronicles of Narnia, The Starless Sea, and The Magicians, this first entry in The Lost Magik of Liminalia promises an unforgettable series ahead
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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