The Wizard's Way

by Lisa Kelly

Magic runs in her blood. She just doesn’t know it yet.

Twelve-year-old Katie didn’t expect much from a summer at her grandfather’s creepy old mansion—certainly not strange voices echoing up the fireplace or a magical scroll that opens a portal to another world. But when her grandfather vanishes, Katie discovers a hidden realm called O’Mirra…and a mission she can’t ignore.

With her little sister Jenny and a young apprentice wizard named Aiden, Katie must brave a cursed swamp, battle twisted creatures, and unlock her hidden powers to bring her grandfather home. But a dark force called Diabolus has bound itself to Madgar, a power-hungry would-be king determined to conquer O’Mirra. If Katie can’t master her magic in time, she’ll lose not only her grandfather—but her very soul.

299 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 10, 2025

Reviews

[Cat]

I love books where plot and fantasy elements aren't the only things that keep you reading. The Wizard's Way has a keen emotional depth that makes the characters feel more real and their growth more relatable. Katie's journey to O'Mirra isn't just about learning magic from elf wizards—it's about discovering her own inner strength and self-worth when her family life feels chaotic.

This is more than escapist fantasy. It's a story that helps kids process real feelings while having an adventure. Katie learns she's special and powerful just as she is, which is a message every child navigating family change needs to hear.

Highly recommend for middle-grade readers, especially those dealing with family transitions.

P.S. You'll love Spunky, too!

[One Enchanted Life]

What an exceptional book for middle-aged readers! This is a perfect transitional book from children’s book fairytales/fantasy to higher level fantasy. I personally feel that this a great read for 8-12 year olds! The book was captivating and entertaining while increasing in vocabulary difficulty.

In the story, two sisters must go on a quest to rescue their grandfather from another dimension. They run across multiple problems where they have to use teamwork to overcome. The main character, Katie, also goes through immense personal growth throughout the story. She must discover her own self-worth and abilities to make herself a great wizard. This would be a great book for kids that love fantasy, but an even better book for kids struggling with self-doubt.

As a whimsical mama and the owner of a crystal shop, I appreciated all of the crystals and magical terms used throughout the book! The author went into detail about how crystals were helping amplify energy and describing certain crystal characteristics. She also used beginner level spells, potions and verbiage to introduce the reader to more advanced fantasy.

I received this book as an ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) from NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. Thank you to the Author and Publisher to review this book.

[Dakota Love]

Sent to stay with their grandfather while their mother visits Ireland, 12-year-old Katie and her younger sister Jenny never expected to end up at a haunted mansion. With hidden rooms and ethereal voices, Grandpa Ian's home has more secrets than a museum. But the greatest secret of all is a passageway to another world: O'Mirra, home to peaceful elves who weave magic spells. Soon, this magical dimension finds itself under attack by the deadly Diabolus, an arcane force bent on destruction. And when Grandpa Ian disappears, it’s up to Katie and Jenny to bring peace back to this gentle, war-torn world.
“The Wizard’s Way” by Lisa Kelly is an incredibly absorbing journey to a magic dimension. Hours flew by in the human plane as I dove into this world of wonder alongside these intrepid sisters. Katie is the undisputed protagonist, a courageous tomboy who cares deeply about the planet, but often feels like she simply doesn’t belong. Jenny is soft spoken and kind, the perfect counterpoint to her sister, always hoping to be loved by those around her. Both girls struggle with the meaning of family after their parents’ divorce, fighting to find true acceptance in the face of rejection. After the girls enter O’Mirra, they encounter the third member of their team, a wizard’s apprentice named Aiden who constantly fears that he will never be good enough. Together, this trio of heroes battle dark creatures and face incredible odds to save the ones they love and free the world.
I love it that the magic and splendor of elvish O’Mirra is contrasted by such complex human emotion. The battles are action-packed, while tender moments such as the rescue of Spunky the cub bring incredible depth. As an autistic person, I closely identified with Katie’s feelings of isolation, the nebulous feeling of “otherness” that fills her days and causes her to doubt herself. This team of young heroes works alongside their family and mentors in a multi-generational fantasy adventure full of heart. This is an incredible tale of personal growth in a land of magic, as Katie, Aiden, and Jenny find the true power of self-acceptance.
Unfortunately, the final battle, while gripping, resolves much too quickly, robbing it of some of its impact. The ending left me very dissatisfied, as Katie, after enduring endless trials and finding discovering the truth has so much cruelly ripped away from her yet again. Although the plot technically resolves, I was left with a deep feeling of grief for this brave girl who faced her fears only to lose so much.
A deep story of growth, personal battles, and an incredible magical realm, this book earns four out of five stars. Containing fantasy violence, blood, and magic that has a drugging effect, this tale is suitable for readers 10 and up who love coming-of-age adventures full of heart.
I received a free review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mikayla Young]

The characters in this captivating narrative are exceptionally well-developed, relatable, realistic, and infused with humor, making them resonate deeply with readers of all ages. The female protagonist, Katie, stands out as a remarkable character who embodies a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences. Through her journey, she artfully captures the essence of feelings that are not only prevalent among middle school-aged children but also resonate with adults. Katie navigates a spectrum of emotions, from the anxiety and worry that often accompany the trials of growing up to the bravery, determination, and love that emerge as she confronts her challenges head-on.

In addition to Katie, the side characters contribute significantly to the narrative's depth and charm. Spunky, the lovable dog, injects humor and warmth into the story, providing comic relief in moments of tension and serving as a loyal companion to Katie. Jenny, Katie's sister, adds another layer of realism and complexity to the family dynamic, showcasing the intricacies of sibling relationships. These characters, along with others in the story, enrich the plot with their unique personalities and perspectives, making the overall experience more engaging and relatable.

The settings within the narrative are vividly described, creating an immersive and magical atmosphere that draws readers into the world of O'Mirra. Each location is crafted with such detail that it feels alive, enhancing the story's mystery and adventurous spirit. The magical elements are interwoven seamlessly with the narrative, inviting readers to explore a realm filled with wonder and enchantment. The author's descriptive prowess ensures that readers can visualize the enchanting landscapes and the thrilling escapades that unfold throughout the story.

The writing style is accessible and engaging, allowing readers to easily connect with the narrative. It is well-crafted, capturing the tones and emotions of the characters in a way that brings them to life. The plot is intricately developed, weaving together elements of adventure, magic, humor, and valuable life lessons. Themes of family, both chosen and found, are explored in depth, creating a rich backdrop for the characters' journeys. This combination of elements keeps readers eagerly turning the pages, often sneaking under the covers with a flashlight to continue reading long after bedtime.

Illustrations peppered throughout the book are beautifully rendered, serving as effective visual aids that enhance the storytelling without overshadowing the narrative itself. Each illustration complements the text, adding another layer of engagement for the readers and enriching their experience of the story.

The book delves into numerous themes and lessons that resonate on multiple levels, including navigating the complexities of a parent's divorce, grappling with family struggles, experiencing loss and grief, and celebrating the bonds of friendship and sibling relationships. These lessons are seamlessly woven into the narrative, imparting wisdom without feeling didactic or preachy, allowing readers to absorb them naturally as they follow the storyline.

As the story unfolds, it leaves tantalizing hints of what is to come in the series, effectively building intrigue and excitement for future installments. This thoughtful conclusion ensures that readers are left with a sense of anticipation and eagerness for more adventures in the world of O'Mirra.

In conclusion, "The Wizard's Way" by Lisa Kelly stands out as one of the finest middle-grade contemporary fantasy novels I have ever encountered. It is a delightful blend of adventure, mystery, magic, humor, emotion, and the exploration of family and friendship. This book is perfect for readers who yearn to be immersed in a magical world populated by relatable characters with whom they can connect deeply, embarking on a thrilling journey alongside them. I eagerly await the next books in the Adventures in O'Mirra series, as well as any other works by Lisa Kelly, with great excitement and curiosity.

I extend my gratitude to the author, publisher, and Booksirens for providing an ARC copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own and are based on my personal reading experience.

[Hannah]

The Wizard's Way is a FANTASTIC introduction to fantasy for young readers. There were so many small things that elevated the story to something truly heartfelt for older readers, without being confusing to younger audiences. I spent a couple weeks reading a chapter or two a night to our grandkids (5 & 8) and it's the first time I've gotten the older one actually excited about a story.

The language was very absorbable, the voices were varied and distinct without being overwhelming, transitions were easily followed, the pacing was spot on - never a lag or too fast for the kids to follow, and the story slowed down and wrapped up in such a way as to not leave them with a cliffhanger or uncertainty.

We've done The Princess Bride, Matilda, and The Golden Compass, and while both kids followed along and remembered plot points, they weren't **excited** about going to bed. This book changed that. I won't pretend it was the younger one's favorite activity, but she listed quietly and dozed off quickly (which is really quite an accomplishment in itself), but the 8 year old...he cared. He never cares. He requested it nightly, stayed awake through chapters even though he's normally the first to pass out, remembered where we left off the night before, and went so far as to question whether or not the book was actually a show. It was real for him, he could see it.

I cannot say enough good things about this book.

Read via Netgalley

[Cynthia Weber]

From the beginning of the story I was swept into a world where courage, family and magic all combine to create a narrative that captivated my attention. The story opens with two young sisters facing a potentially boring summer at their grandfather’s eerie old mansion. That changes quickly when the grandfather mysteriously disappears and the adventure begins.

While looking for her grandfather, the older sister Katie discovers the hidden realm of O’Mirra, a land filled with cursed swamps and wondrous creatures, some welcoming and some terrifying. Katie’s brave little sister Jenny, and a charming apprentice wizard Aiden, join Katie in the search for her grandfather. Cuteness enters when the group rescues Spunky, an adorable wolf pup.

The group must overcome frightening villains, Diabolus a dark wraith and Madgar, a power-hungry king. The adventure is gripping as we follow Katie and her crew, watching her grow from uncertainty to finding the wizard within. This is a story about family, loyalty and finding the strength to fight for the people you love.

For a debut novel this book is remarkably engaging. The pace keeps us engaged, but allows for humor and tender moments with the characters. The characters are lovable and well-developed and the world-building full of intrigue. I highly recommend The Wizards Way.

[Monica]

Thank you to NetGalley and Magic Light Press for the ARC. I greatly appreciate it!

THE WIZARD’S WAY is a middle-grade fantasy that centers on two sisters and their journey, with a strong focus on their relationship and personal growth. It has a thoughtful core. The writing is clear and easy to follow, and it feels well suited for its intended age group.

I recommend this to readers who enjoy character-focused fantasy with an emphasis on family dynamics and emotional themes.

[Nancy]

I could picture the characters and world of O'Mirra through the author's vibrant and detailed descriptions. This is a fast-paced fantasy that will keep you engaged. Not only does the unintentional heroin find her family, but she discovers her powers, courage and herself along the way.

[CC]

It is a rare and beautiful thing to encounter a story that doesn't just invite you into its world, but seems to vibrate with a frequency of authenticity that resonates into our world. I finished Lisa Kelly’s The Wizard’s Way with a profound sense of both stillness and awe. This isn't merely an adventure; it is an atmospheric and intellectually rigorous study of the human heart, wrapped in a noir fantasy mystery that blooms into a high-stakes elven epic. This isn't just a young adult middle-grade book. It's a sophisticated, sensory, and deeply compassionate piece of literature that treats the inner emotional lives of children and young people with the unblinking respect they deserve that is rare in contemporary literature.

The story begins in a Duluth, Minnesota, that feels less like a city and more like a visceral state of being. Kelly captures the "hazy gray light" and "darkening skies," where the trees lining the driveway reach out like "bony fingers arching overhead." Set against this stark background we meet twelve-year-old Katie Peterson and her sister Jenny as they are dropped off at their grandfather’s stone mansion, a place that feels otherworldly, yet is grounded in the coldness and isolation that is so often present in our world. I was especially taken with the book’s acoustic precision. In a moment of high tension, a flashlight rolls under a bed with a 'hollow click-click-click.' It’s a small, masterful detail that captures the airless, terrifying silence of a child’s night spent in hyper-vigilance. It is this commitment to the visceral reality of childhood that makes the fantasy elements feel so heavy and real.

As a Midwesterner and someone who values a sense of place, I was immediately struck by how the setting mirrors the protagonist’s internal state. Katie Peterson is twelve years old and immensely inquisitive. She is the “strange” one, the kid who asks too many questions, and she carries the quiet, crushing guilt of her parents' divorce like a physical anchor. One of the most poignant lines early in the book hits with the force of a physical blow: “She couldn’t forget that the last fight her parents had was about her.” That kind of raw honesty regarding a child’s perception of family trauma is the secret weapon of this book.

As the sisters cross through a magical portal into the mysterious land of O’Mirra that is a parallel dimension to our own, the landscape they arrive into becomes a mirror for their internal struggles. Grandpa Ian uses a "radio frequency" analogy to explain this other world: he suggests that dimensions are simply different channels playing on the same radio. We just have to learn how to tune the dial. Within O'Mirra, the contrast between the harmonic residence of Giant’s Grove (where inhabitants live in massive, hollowed-out trees) and the industrial, decaying rot of Masal (a town of stone buildings "climbing on top of each other" in a fight for air) provides a sophisticated critique of resource exploitation and greed. O’Mirra isn’t a whimsical escape; it's a world in a state of ethical and ecological entropy plagued by a soul parasite called the Diabolus that feeds on fear, anger, and greed. This feels so viscerally real and relevant in our current era, and for good reason: we find out the infection originated here on Earth. Our inner demons are just as dangerous and scary as external monsters. This suggests a terrifyingly grounded premise: our negative emotional states are not just personal; they are contagious, capable of possessing entire societies.

One of the most intellectually satisfying aspects of The Wizard’s Way is the magic system itself. Kelly avoids the "wand-waving" clichés that often make fantasy feel thin. In O’Mirra, magic is an emotional and intellectual toolkit based on imagination, visualization, and intention. This makes the magic accessible and self-actualizing as a reader as we all have the power to use imagination, visualization, and intention in our own lives for the daily battles we face. I also appreciated how anchored in sensory experience is the magic in the story. It brings the supernatural into the human experience with scrolls that don’t glow with an ethereal light; they hum with static electricity, and descriptions of stinky scrolls smelling of "burnt maple syrup." It is a world you can smell, feel, and, perhaps most importantly, trust.

The relationship between the sisters provides the book’s emotional equilibrium through a constant, realistic friction that is handled with a realism that avoids any sense of sugar-coating. Jenny is the "fairytale" girl with long blonde hair and pink pajamas, a stark contrast to Katie’s jagged edges and oversized baseball jersey. The sisters don’t magically get along because they’ve found a portal; they have to work through the debris of their broken home while navigating arcane forces. Their symbiotic evolution, where Jenny provides the emotional grounding for Katie and Katie provides the confidence and courage needed for their survival, is the heart of the narrative. The contrast between Katie’s jagged bravery and Jenny’s soft-spoken kindness creates a realism that makes the arrival of the Diabolus feel genuinely threatening.

The supporting cast is equally three-dimensional. Aiden, the young elf apprentice, is a poignant study in imposter syndrome. He is a boy who "will never be good enough," providing a perfect mirror to Katie’s own self-doubt. Then there is **Spunky**, the white wolf pup. Spunky is a "mix," a misfit rejected by his pack, and his presence provides a necessary, gritty levity and another validation of otherness. The matrilineal trinity of Mata, Maya, and Mara provides a sophisticated framework for power based on protection and intuition. Grandpa Ian serves as the safe and loving adult required to ground the children's chaos. Grandma Celia represents ancient wisdom literalized as part of the environment. Darius embodies competence as a master wizard and demonstrates powerful self-sacrifice. The relationship between Darius and his raven Rynik mirrors the bond between Katie and Spunky, suggesting that the most powerful wizards are those who recognize the sovereign intelligence of the animal world.

As a vegetarian, I found the granular, thoughtful detail of Aiden providing Katie with nut cheese and mushroom bread to be a rare trust signal of an author who has fully realized her protagonist's ethics. Katie's refusal to eat animals, even in a different dimension, demonstrates her integrity by refusing to compromise her values for convenience. The environmental subtext is not a background theme. It is the catalyst for the entire story, suggesting that the health of the planet is inextricably linked to the health of the family.

In the climax of the novel, Katie does not win against the powerful sorcerer Madgar through superior force or a violent physical duel. Instead, she utilizes the mechanics of her inner magic to perform an act of radical empathy by recognizing Madgar's childhood of neglect and lack of respect. This is the ultimate cure: the realization that the only way to heal a world infected by fear is to recognize the common vulnerability beneath the armor of anger. It is a subversion of the conqueror hero that left me in tears. It suggests that the only way to neutralize the contagion of fear is through the difficult, courageous act of compassion.

The Wizard’s Way earns its place on the shelf alongside the works of Ursula K. Le Guin, Madeleine L’Engle, and C.S. Lewis. It's a book for the "strange" kid in all of us and is a great read not only for young adults, but for all of us. The things that make Katie feel strange are not a pathology to be fixed, but a marker of her inner power. It reminds us that being "off" or "strange" is often just a sign that we are ready for a bigger world. I walked away from this book feeling not just entertained, but seen. This is a story that stays with you, humming in the back of your mind like static on a scroll and with meaningful, hard-won hope. Katie is the hero we need in 2026, and O’Mirra is a world I cannot wait to return to.

To the author, Lisa Kelly: Thank you for this gift. It is a masterclass in the craft of the heart. You haven't just written a novel; you’ve provided a toolkit for empowerment. Your high-quality storytelling and cohesive world-building are matched with boundless compassion and empowering possibility that overcome the cynicism of our time.

For the parent looking for a way to discuss the "jagged edges" of life, for the teacher seeking a narrative rich with symbolism and ethical inquiry, and for the adult reader who simply wants to be reminded of the magic of self-belief and self-acceptance, your search ends here. Purchase this book immediately; your inner "Kizard" (Katie the Great Wizard) will thank you!

[Marc L]

I really loved this story about two sisters who travel through a magic portal to another dimension to rescue their lost grandpa. The pacing was great, pretty much every chapter ended on a cliffhanger, which made it hard to put down.

The relationship between the sisters was one of my favorite parts. It felt very real, with plenty of tension but also a lot of love. Katie is brave, Jenny is kind, and they balance each other well. Although the story is full of adventure, exciting and sometimes scary creatures, and magic, I also liked the quieter theme running underneath about finding your place in a family that doesn’t look like everyone else’s. It added a lot of heart without ever feeling too heavy.

And honestly, Spunky the wolf pup stole my heart. He’s funny, smart, and such a great little companion...especially when the story gets tense, as he lightens things up with his antics.

I also enjoyed the magic system a lot--the potions on scrolls and the incantations were really clever. Watching Katie build confidence as she uncovered her magical abilities was exciting, and the climax of the story was suspenseful with an unexpected ending.

This is a fun, magical adventure with great characters and deeper lessons. I definitely recommend it for middle grade kids (and all of us).

[Ann Anderson]

The Wizard’s Way is an imaginative world Lisa Kelly has created. The story moves with adventure and mystical intrigue, drawing readers into a realm filled with magic, danger, and discovery.

What feels especially strong is the depth beneath the adventure. Themes of courage, loyalty, family, and self-belief are woven naturally into the journey, giving the story substance as well as excitement.

Lisa Kelly’s rich background and creative talents shine through in her storytelling. There’s a sense of confidence and care in how the world is built and how the characters are shaped. It’s clear this is an author with heart, vision, and the ability to blend imagination with meaningful values.

A wonderful contribution to the fantasy genre and a testament to Lisa’s creativity.

[Ashley Christianson]

What a fun adventure with two sisters finding their way through mystery and magic! Can’t wait to pass this along to my daughters to enjoy!

[NL]

This is a delightful story of Katie, a 12 year old girl finding her strength and confidence to save her grandfather despite her fears.

Even though this story is targeted for young adolescents, I found it entertaining as an adult. I loved that the heroine is a young girl and I found it refreshing to see her grandmother positioned as an encouraging role model helping Katie come into her own.

The use of fantasy and magic in this fun adventure makes it an easy read for anyone. We need more stories like this, highlighting the potential innate strengths of little girls when given encouragement and opportunity.

[Kim Christianson]

As a former high school Special Education teacher, I was always on the lookout for interesting and engaging books with relevant themes that didn't make my students feel out of step with their classmates. The Wizard's Way by Lisa Kelly, fits that criteria and more! This fantasy novel is aimed towards middle school to young adult readers and focuses on sisters, Katie and Jenny, as they encounter mystery and magic when left by their mother with their grandfather in his creepy mansion. As the story unfolds, we discover that Katie and Jenny are facing the breakup of their family and that both girls are struggling with their personal identities, with relating to each other, with feelings of loss and grief, and with feeling out of place in the world. When Katie uncovers secrets in the family mansion that point to her magical heritage, she is given something to rebuild her sense of belonging and sets off on an adventure into another world to save her family. The author has created relatable and interesting characters who take us into a magical world that is at once fascinating, scary, and believable. Throughout the story, the author keeps the pace, the action, the feelings of the characters, and the dialog lively, interesting, and genuine. The small illustrations scattered throughout the book are a perfect match to the vibe of the story and give it an added element of interest. Kelly’s background in Psychology and as a teacher can be felt in the understanding and compassion that surrounds the story and characters. While much of the story takes place in a fantasy world, the issues Katie and Jenny face are real and timely to young people today, issues such as divorce, grief, trauma, defining what it means to be family, how we show up for each other, and how we find our own gifts and purpose. The Wizard’s Way is a novel that will excite young readers who enjoy fantasy stories that are dramatic but not too scary. Its readability, relatable characters, and engaging story will lend itself well to the classroom setting and interest a variety of readers.

[Mark Buxton]

What worked:
Divorce is very relevant to the girls’ problems. Katie and Jenny’s father left the family, and they don’t know why. With no explanation, the girls suspect that they are the reason. More specifically, Katie feels certain that her headstrong, rebellious behavior is the cause of her father’s anger and absence. She remembers what she did on the day he left, and the way he talked about her. This internal conflict plagues the girls as their adventure to O’Mirra unfolds. Their father makes an appearance in O’Mirra, in a way.
Katie learns her mother and grandmother are witches, and that she is one, too. She first notices her amulet is vibrating against her chest, and she sees her deceased (missing?) grandmother in the scrying mirror. Readers will have questions about her family. Where is her grandmother? Why doesn’t her mother seem to have any knowledge about magic and O’Mirra? Katie has moments of insecurity about her abilities, but she really displays an aptitude toward casting spells. She feels responsible and protective of her younger sister, but Jenny often offers her support and flashes of bravery. Their mettle will be tested by a magical plague that feeds on fear, anger, and self-doubt.
What didn’t work as well:
Katie’s magical learning curve is very quick, as performing spells isn’t overly complicated. It’s a matter of possessing the ability and reading spell words from a scroll. At times, it seems that the most difficult part of casting magic is unrolling the scrolls and reading in pressure situations. It’s a little odd.
The final verdict:
The book shares a fast-paced adventure in a magical world. The plot’s format is familiar, but the author includes twists to make it unique. I recommend you try the book for yourself.

[Susan PhD]

In The Wizard’s Way, Lisa Kelly delivers a high-stakes, immersive middle-grade fantasy packed with adventure and heart.
The story features two strong sisters, Katie and Jenny her younger sibling. But it is Katie who feels like “the strange one” in her family, and her journey from alienation to a girl discovering the magic in her own blood unfolds at a brisk, exciting pace. The portal to the magical world of O’Mirra opens into a fully imagined world of cursed swamps, twisted creatures, dark forces, and looming danger. The stakes feel real—her grandfather’s disappearance is not just a plot device but an emotional anchor that drives the story forward.
What I appreciated most about this stunning first novel is that it isn’t didactic. Often, middle-grade books pause the adventure to underline a lesson; this one trusts readers to find meaning through the action—no lectures here! Instead, themes of courage, belonging, and self-belief emerge naturally from Katie’s choices instead of being spelled out in heavy-handed ways.
Katie and Jenny each contribute in meaningful ways, and their sister dynamic adds heart to the larger quest. The addition of Spunky the wolf pup and the apprentice wizard Aiden rounds out the cast without overshadowing the girls’ agency.
For readers ages 8–12 who love portal fantasies and magical discovery, this is a fast-paced, heartfelt start to what promises to be an exciting series.

[DeAnne]

Two sisters, a missing grandfather and a portal to another world - what could go wrong?

In The Wizard's Way we primarily follow Katie, a 12 year old who is dealing with the recent divorce of her parents which she blames herself for and the fact that she always feels out of place - and her sister Jenny, an 11 year old who is nearly her opposite. In the wake of their parents divorce they go to stay with their grandfather. Both sisters have different opinions about their parents' divorce so there's definitely some friction and disagreements.

The story really picks up when their grandfather disappears to another world and Katie and Jenny decide that they are the ones to save him.

The story does start slow, but once it gets going there's a lot of adventure, growth, a little coming of age and a bunch of fun characters to meet. Katie and Jenny are far more complex than you would think in a middle grade, both with their unique personalities, insecurities and feelings.

There is a decent amount of world building that perhaps brings down the pace a little, but once the story really gets going it will fully absorb you. This is slated to be the first in a series, so it will be interesting to see what happens with Katie and Jenny in coming books.

Thanks to the author for reaching out and sending me a copy of this one!

[Jazz Nightingale]

Thank you to Lisa Kelly & NetGalley for this ARC.

When Katie & Jenny's Grandpa goes missing, it's up to them to go through The Wizard's Way to rescue him.

Making friends - and plenty of enemies - along the way, the sisters soon learn that things aren't always as they seem.

This is a wonderful story filled with wholesome characters, and they bring with them a sense of hope, bravery and love. I loved the added details at the end of the book so that we can all cast the spells while reading.

I would give this book a 3.5/5 stars, which is why I have chosen to rate it a 4 rather than 3. As much as I liked the characters, the story and its moral, it feels equally rushed and too slow.

The characters seem to have all the time in the world while their loved ones are in potentially life-threatening situations, there is no sense of urgency despite family members being missing or trapped etc. They have hours to kill which doesn't seem to fit the story. On the other hand, the writing itself seems rushed. The ending fell very flat for me, it seemed like it was very hurried and *SPOILER* Katie finding out who her Dad is and then being told he's leaving is a HUGE life-changing thing and it was glossed over like someone had just told her the weather. Everything after the castle seemed very quickly written and could have have so much more of an impact. This book is aimed at kids, and kids go through things like having parents leave or meeting them for the first time. That would have been a great opportunity to explore the subject and it feels like it was missed.

[Ali]

The Wizard’s Way is a perfect introduction to the fantasy genre for middle school readers. Katie is a lovable and relatable character who struggles with modern issues, such as being a child of divorce, as well as the timeless trials we all go through in our youth - trying to figure out who we are and how we fit in.

Katie never conforms to the standard mold put forth by society, but with a little courage (or rather, a lot of courage!) she ventures into the land of O’Mirra with her sister to save her grandfather and learns a lot about her family and herself along the way. She also makes some delightful new friends, including the charming young elf Aiden and Spunky, an adorable white wolf pup.

Overall I found this to be an enjoyable read full of adventure, fun, and the self empowerment every middle schooler deserves to find!

[Jessi L.]

The Wizard's Way follows the journey of two sisters, Katie and Jenny, as they try to locate their missing grandfather. It's a cute story where you can feel the love they have for one another. There is a theme of Katie struggling with her own self-worth, and learning to believe in herself allows her to come into her own to develop her magical abilities.

This is a fantastic book for young/middle aged readers and could really resonate with children struggling with the ability to believe in themselves. Parts of the book feel both rushed and yet slow at the same time, with some situations seeming to be glossed over or left unresolved.

Overall, this is a wholesome book for children, aged 10-12, potentially a little younger depending on their reading level due to some of the vocabulary.

[Farah G]

When Katie and Jenny discover a portal into another world, they find themselves swept up in an unimaginable and possibly dangerous adventure involving sorcerers, magical beasts, and a quest to rescue their missing grandfather.

Katie has always been used to being a misfit, but could this finally be the time that she is the perfect fit for the job? Especially since she finds unexpected helpers in the process!

This is a charming story with some really good world building. Definitely worth checking out.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Elizabeth Wolner]

The Wizard’s Way was a captivating escape from reality! I found Katie very relatable as a Minnesotan older sister myself. Lisa paints the picture of the sibling dynamic well, and I love that the girls are visiting their grandpa at a mansion in Duluth, MN. It was so easy to picture what was going on in the book, and I found it incredibly effortless to follow. I really enjoyed the colorful magic and spunky familiar companion. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to others!

[Tanya]

She will go to her grandfather’s but it is a creepy place. Things will change when he discovers and she discovers she has magic. She will travel to a different realm where she will try to find her grandfather with the help of a sister and him. A great read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and my neice loved it

[Stephanie]

I really enjoyed this book, even when it seemed to slow down for me in the middle. There were plenty of surprises throughout and the ending could be interpreted that there could be a sequel. I recommend this book for anyone that enjoys books with magic and a lot of action!

[Ivelyn Fisher]

I found the book compelling and yet left me wanting more! So much more for Katie- can she have two worlds?