The game is no longer what it seems. This time, the stakes are higher. This time, someone may not return.
When a dark force rips through Scotland, the four siblings are thrust into a desperate race to save the one they love. Their only hope lies in a mythical thistle said to bloom in Liminalia. But the path back is wilder than ever as they are plunged into a perilous water realm of soul-thieving tricksters, strange allies and powerful enchantments.
With their enemy hidden in plain sight, the children face trials far greater than any they’ve ever known. What begins as a race to save a life becomes something far a magik quest to restore what was broken and uncover the dark truth behind Dominia.
The Genies’ Lair is the second volume in The Lost Magik of Liminalia, a mythic, YA fantasy adventure about the return of true magik, the courage to rewrite fate and the quest to remember who we truly are.
S.L. Realta is an internationally acclaimed and Amazon #1 bestselling author whose books open readers to the wonder of magik.
Her profound, thought-provoking novels catapult audiences into thrilling, spellbinding adventures where hidden worlds, myth, mystery and ancient magik come vividly to life.
Her writing has been praised as “a breathtaking feat of imagination… a defining saga in modern fantasy.”
The Lost Magik of Liminalia is her latest book series and her magnum opus: a sweeping saga born through one of the most profound moments of her life and written for every reader who still believes, or longs to believe, that magik is real.
Born in the UK, Realta spent two decades in international finance and fintech, working across trading floors, back-office operations, consulting, global strategic sales and project management. Then a series of extraordinary and magikal unfoldings led her to leave that world behind and explore the generative, reality-shaping power of the written word.
A lifelong adventurer, Realta has spent over two decades walking and exploring the mythologies, ancient landscapes and hidden histories that shape her stories. She doesn’t simply write about magik. She lives it, breathes it, teaches it and invites her readers to do the same.
Realta has appeared across television, film, news and radio, sharing her work with audiences from Australia to Antarctica. Beyond writing, she mentors business leaders, creators and students worldwide, teaching magik as a lived, tangible force that unlocks full human potential. For more info see https://www.slrealtawrites.com/ (less)
Adventure, Magik, excitement! I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I had so much fun reading this incredible tale of mischief, daring escapes and blooming friendships. Once again the children must rush to Liminalia in search of the golden thistle to save their beloved caretaker and is met with even more adventure then book one, The Book of Destiny! S.L. Realty has once again dazzled us with her fantastic writing style and imaginative descriptions of worlds and creatures that bring them to life with the turning of each page. The vivid descriptions will pull any reader into Liminalia with ease and soon you feel like you are marching right beside the characters through the water world, battling foes and daring heart pounding escapes! Magikal!
Having loved The Book of Destiny, I was excited for this second installment in the Lost Magik Of Liminalia series. it did not disappoint. in fact I would say that this was even better than it's predecessor. The children return to Liminalia in search of a mythical thistle desperately needed to save the life of a loved one. The journey is even more perilous than before, and I found it utterly compelling as well.as thoroughly enjoying meeting up with old friends and making new ones along the way. I love that I am able to share these books with my 11 year old daughter. We have both enjoyed the values of family, friendship and kindness that come across in the story, and the characters have a wonderful sense of loyalty, courage and integrity, with an absolutely glorious modern spark of wit and sass that my daughter finds so relatable and which I find joyous. S. L. Realta has a brilliant writing style that is incredibly visual. The pages come alive through the descriptions of both Scotland and Liminalia, and I almost felt as though I was there with the children every step of the way. To sum up in one word? It has to be....Magikal
The Lost Magik Of Liminalia- The Genies Lair by SL Realta. Arc Review
Book 2 liturally picks up where you left off in Book 1! So it is a brilliantly written beginning in the book. You continue to follow the journey of the 4 siblings! If this was an omnibus of all the books combined you really wouldn't see the transition from book 1 to book 2, its been done effortlessly and immersive.
This book ramps right up, and jumps straight in, not only do you witness the 4 growing up, but you also see their growth in confidence, and fearlessness when they accept their destiny and know what must be done for Liminalia.
The book is also a little darker than book 1 but not in a way as of needing a warning, its also more indepth with regards to lore, mysteries, eerie, full of a mass variety of symbolisms and enchantments.
If you enjoyed the first book, you'll just love this one, and if you havent read them. I really suggest you do, they are a great YA read!
I absolutely loved book two as much as I did book one it felt so easy to just step back into this book. Just like the first book the descriptions and world building made you feel like you were there in the story .
This book is fast paced and keeps you on the edge of your seat from the first chapter all the way through to the last chapter. I really like the author’s writing style I think it really pulls the book together!
Throughout this book you meet a wide range of new characters and creatures which I just loved, you are also introduced to new parts of the world that you didn’t experience in the first book!
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and this is my honest review! I can’t wait for book 3!
The Lost Magik of Liminalia: The Genie’s Lair is everything I hoped the sequel would be—and somehow even more. From the very first page, it felt like I had never left since Book 1. The transition back into this universe is so seamless and immersive that it’s as if the magik of Liminalia simply paused for a breath and then continued right where it left off.
What truly stood out to me was just how intricate and richly detailed the worldbuilding is. The author blends Vikings, pirates, genies, and a whole menagerie of magikal creatures into a setting that should feel chaotic—but instead feels astonishingly natural and deeply lived-in. Every corner of this world has texture. Every culture feels fully realised. Every encounter feels like part of a larger, ancient tapestry.
This book is very much a deeper dive—darker in places, more mysterious in others, and absolutely bursting with lore. The Genie’s Lair itself is a masterpiece of imaginative design: eerie, enchanting, and layered with symbolism.
And woven through everything is the story’s central theme: words are spells—choose them carefully. The book doesn’t just tell you this; it shows it again and again. Characters rise, fall, and transform based on the power, precision, or carelessness of what they say. It’s a message that lingers long after the final page.
If you loved Book 1, this sequel is not just a continuation—it’s an ascension. I’m already impatient for the next installment.
So glad I didn't have to wait too long for the next part in this magical series. It was great to journey deeper with the characters into the mysterious world of Liminalia, with all the wonderful beings and places they meet there, in this story full of exciting twists and turns. Can't wait for part three!
Extraordinary! I absolutely loved 'The Genies' Lair', It kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The character development is brilliant, and the writing is super clever — the way the story is woven together with breathtaking visuals and nonstop action is incredible. This part of the journey is thrilling, full of danger, mystery, and wonder. We meet loads of amazing creatures, new characters, unlock clue after clue, and I genuinely felt like I was right there on the adventure alongside the children ..what a ride! Fans of the first book are in for a treat - this adventure is bigger, bolder and even more magical!
I was eagerly anticipating book 2 - The Genie's Lair. Wow! It is an absolute whirlwind of imagination, with every chapter bursting with surprises, from mysterious riddles to fantastical creatures, I could literally see them, like a magnificent movie. I really enjoyed the growth of the characters as the story unfolded. I was completely immersed in the adventure, uncovering secrets and wonders alongside the children at every turn. This felt both familiar and brand new, I highly recommend it for those who enjoy fantasy, mystery and adventure.
I found The Genies’ Lair to be even more captivating than The Book of Destiny. The pace ramps up right from the start, and I loved how we get to see the characters grow in confidence, courage and understanding as they step back into Liminalia. Watching them learn more about themselves and the world around them made the story feel deeper and more alive.
There were real standout pieces for me – scenes filled with tension, unexpected twists, moments of tenderness, and those flashes of magik that make you pause and smile. I also enjoyed meeting the new characters who added fresh energy to the journey without overwhelming the story.
What surprised me most was how the book invited me back in as if no time had passed at all. It felt like returning to a place I already knew, but with new doors opening and new secrets unfolding. Although it’s written for young adults, I was completely absorbed from beginning to end.
And if you haven’t read Book 1, don’t worry – this story stands beautifully on its own. But I’m fairly certain you’ll want to go back and read The Book of Destiny once you’ve finished this, because the threads between the two books make the experience even richer.
A wonderful read – full of adventure, heart and that quiet, subtle magik that lingers long after you turn the last page.
The Lost Magik of Liminalia: The Genie’s Lair (Book 2 of the 7-book series) by S. L. Realta is an absolutely amazing read and a powerful continuation of the journey into the world of Liminalia.
This book pulls you even deeper into the magic and mystery of Liminalia, expanding the world in exciting and unexpected ways. Watching the children discover more about who they are and what they’re capable of, was one of my favorite parts. Their growth feels natural, meaningful, and deeply engaging, making it impossible not to root for them every step of the way.
The introduction of new creatures is wonderfully imaginative, and the new challenges the children face keep the story moving at a thrilling pace. We also meet new characters who immediately spark curiosity. I already want to know more about them and how their stories will unfold.
There’s a noticeable shift in the story, a turning point that hints at even bigger trials ahead. You can feel that more challenges are on the horizon, and it leaves you eager (and slightly impatient!) to continue the series.
Magical, adventurous, and full of heart—this book is a fantastic addition to the series and a must-read for anyone who loves rich world-building and characters who grow alongside the magic around them. My daughter and I enjoy reading this together. It was such a treat. We can’t wait to see what comes next in Liminalia ✨XO 💋
There is always the hope that a second book can live up to its predecessor, and I was so relieved, yet not at all surprised, to find that the sequel to the book of destiny was every bit as magikal as the first book. The characters take shape and evolve beautifully as well as naturally, and as the urgency in the story becomes greater, I found myself being pulled deeper into the mystical world of Liminalia. You can sense that a plot is carefully being laid out in front of you, like a map, and although my first impulse is to rush through the pages to try and seize it, it is an absolute delight to dwell within the pages and marvel at the amount of detail that is created within. There is such an energy exuding from the pages, that I wonder whether the author is inhabiting the skin of the Great Mother of Magik herself. The cadence of the book is thoroughly grounding and made me glance over my shoulder every now and then to check whether the lost Magik of Liminalia was slowly making its entrance into the room as I was reading it. I obviously can't wait to read the next book!
Forget adulting today…..Luminalia is calling me inwards….. A pint of tea, frequency music and this heart warming book.…...
In the Genies Lair we forge a deeper connection with the children. Our heart strings are tugged! The strength of sibling love prevails!
The adventure and action builds and builds into a crescendo of Scottish marvellousness! I love the pace, descriptive build up and the way Scottish words and language are used for the voices.
This is a must read book! The reader keeps one foot in a giants footstep in magical Scotland and the other in wondrous Liminalia! My smile has returned, a lightness prevails! I feel light, happy and full of wonder and awe again!
Hand on heart I have never enjoyed a book series until my trips to Luminalia! The Genies Lair can be read as a stand alone book or as part of the series. I found The Genies Lair as good if not better than the first part.
Bring on book three, The Psychopants Key! Let me make a fresh cup of tea…...
Although this can be read as a stand alone book, I would reccomend reading book 1 first to give you a better understanding of the main characters. But apart from that this book had me hooked from the first page. I did struggle a bit with the fact that the first chapter didn't seem to relate to the rest of the story but it all came together nicely later in the book. Once again this book was fast paced and an easy read. By easy I dont mean childish it was just a book that I didn't have to force myself to read. I am not going to give anything of the story away but I will tell you that again the four main characters were well rounded in their adventure. They were probably not as separately defined in this book and this is why I recommended reading book 1 first. I love the use of verse throughout the book and this had me trying to work out the clues before the characters worked them out for you. Once again it was a great read and I cant wait to read more books from this series.
This is book 2 in the series and having really enjoyed book 1 (my number 1 read of 2025). I was excited to be able to read book 2 and it did not let me down it was just as good if not better overall. S.L. Realta has a great writing style that pulls you into the story that you just want to keep reading the next paragraph the next page. The story continues with the children’s returning to Liminalia to search for a Golden Thistle to help save the life of their guardian. As the book progresses you see the confidence of the children grow. I highly recommend reading this book and I really look forward to reading the next instalment.
I received this arc from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Alright, seriously though, if The Book of Destiny had you cozying up with its Scottish charm but left you craving some serious plot fireworks, The Genies' Lair is like the dram of whisky that'll set your world ablaze – and trust me, I've got the tea because I snagged an early read of this second book in The Lost Magik of Liminalia series, and honestly, it delivers more Scottish charm and action than you can shake a stick at, making it even better than the first in my humble opinion.☺️
✨This second installment in The Lost Magik of Liminalia series follows orphaned siblings Orla, Ailsa, Finn, and Hamish as they navigate Liminalia, facing fears to find themselves.
✨With a perfect blend of Scottish atmosphere, intense action, and raw magic, it's a page-turner. Relatable characters, high stakes, and romance make this YA fantasy a must-read.
✨It's dark enough to be exciting yet not depressing, leaving you hooked and wanting more.
Solid 4.5 I wish we could give a half star on here :)
Okay so we are now back with the four siblings, and it is just a week after we last saw them. They have now become acquainted with the clan, and are more "settled" after their parents' deaths.
They are with Angus, their guardian, and with some clan children when he just passes out- and they are told he has maybe three days left before he passes.
They are given a quest to go save the golden thistle.
The children sort of have to "cheat" to get back into Liminilia by going in a water funnel - and all the beings they met in the first book are like "man you have grown since the last time we have seen you".
The children will be separated, they will battle bad guys who want the thistle also. There are genie's in this book also.
I found myself completely drawn into The Genies’ Lair from the very first pages— it feels both magical and urgent, as if you’re being pulled alongside the characters on a journey that matters. Many moments in the book were compelling as the story unfolded, but what stayed with me most was the return to Liminalia…especially the transition through the whirlpool and the surreal arrival into the Water Realm. That moment captured the essence of the series for me! — that blend of danger, mystery, and quiet inner awakening. The author continues to weave themes of purpose and courage through each character’s journey. Just like in the previous book, it feels as though their discoveries are gently reflecting something back at me too. A beautifully layered continuation of the story — rich in imagination, but also full of heart. I’m very curious to see where their path leads next!
The Genies’ Lair drew me in from the very first page, just like The Book of Destiny. It moves at a faster pace than the first book without ever feeling rushed, and the world-building is rich, immersive, and wonderfully expanded.
The characters feel more confident and comfortable in their roles, and Hamish’s humour genuinely made me laugh out loud. The story wraps up in a satisfying way while gently opening the door to future adventures, leaving me eagerly waiting for book three. A magical read for both children and adults who love fantasy, adventure, and mystery.
This book takes place shortly after the first book. The stakes are higher in this book which means I couldn't put it down till I knew what was happening. The bond between the siblings in this part of the tale was strained which then made them work harder together to accomplish a task. That made me like the characters even more in this book. I really liked the pirates, the genies and the chess set and how they complicated things. There were a few swearwords in this book as well. I'm anticipating the next step in the journey and can't wait to read it!
THE GENIES LAIR BY S.L. REALTA Release date set for the 26th of January 2026. 5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s. I had the absolute honour of receiving a early copy of this book. This is book 2. What an magik adventure I have been taken on once again. Its face paced and keeps you hooked and invested throughout. I love that it's been kept open for a third installment. I recommend this book to children and adults. Absolute pleasure it was to read and review this book ☺ Such a lovely talented author
Wow, did the journey into Liminalia continue! I must say I think this book is even better than the first. It’s a little more fast paced and gets right into the journey. Keeping in mind that this is a YA book; I really do enjoy the Magik, friendships and love surrounding this family. •••• Again, I just LOVE the Scottish vibes as well and I think S.L Realta does an exceptional job at writing and making you get lost within this awesome world!
After reading the first book and now into the Genies Lair, it is action packed, with lots of suspense. On a mission the uncover so much about who they are, and by walking through the deepest fears, they start to uncover the truth. This series so are is magical, and is really helping me to see the true potential I have to align into what’s possible. This is a must read.
So excited to read the second book! The Genies' Lair is fantastic! It was wonderful to be back in Liminalia again with new lands and more Magik to discover. The story line is really building now. The characters are like friends and you can still feel them after you stop reading. There is so much to inspire the imagination as they meet more magical animals and beings. Fast paced and thrilling!
Fantastic second book, found it totally captivating and atmospheric, this book is a real page turner which had me engrossed from the first page, so invested in the MacAlpin family and can’t wait for their next adventure.
I love this book from the start it was so easy to go from the first to this one I really feel like the story following these siblings is to the core moving and it’s such a good series for young adults they siblings just seem to grow in each book the author really makes you feel like apart of these books
Wow—I had high expectations for book two, and it did not disappoint. It was a seamless continuation, with the story expanding in a way that felt both natural and exciting. I didn’t think the world could become any deeper or more intricate, but it absolutely did.
Like book one, this installment explores meaningful life lessons—especially the power of words and how they shape your reality and the world around you. I also really appreciated the addition of new creatures and characters, which kept the pacing fast and engaging.
This book felt more mysterious, ominous, and at times darker, which I loved—it perfectly mirrored our deeper dive into the world and raised the stakes in all the right ways. I can’t wait to see where this story will continue to go and how our protagonist will become truer, stronger and more authentic versions of themselves.