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The Stolen Idol
Jaimie Whitfield is accused of being a fae changeling, a creature who kidnaps children and assumes their form. If he does not escape, his father will execute him and invade the fae kingdom all because his father would rather believe his son has been taken by the fae than accept his son’s sexuality.
As Jaimie awaits his demise, he turns to the forbidden broken idol he found by the roadside during his last day of freedom. He pours out his soul not expecting an answer, but is shocked when a mysterious black cat slips through his window hundreds of feet from the ground...
In a world where myth is history Jaimie and the companions he meets along the way race to save the fae and unravel what happened to the gods and goddesses ages ago.
As Jaimie awaits his demise, he turns to the forbidden broken idol he found by the roadside during his last day of freedom. He pours out his soul not expecting an answer, but is shocked when a mysterious black cat slips through his window hundreds of feet from the ground...
In a world where myth is history Jaimie and the companions he meets along the way race to save the fae and unravel what happened to the gods and goddesses ages ago.
261 pages, ebook
Published February 11, 2026
9 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
C. Warde Lee
1 book4 followersC. Warde Lee has always had a passion for stories, but wasn't content to just read stories from other people's imaginations. During the pandemic his children asked for a different original story each night, which Warde had to make up on the spot. Some of the characters from those stories stuck with him and demanded to be put in proper writing so others could read about their adventures. Those are the characters filling out the world of Warde's debut novel, The Stolen Idol.
When Warde isn't writing about fairies and centaurs he works for several libraries and is a proud father and husband. While he was born and raised in Utah, he has called California home for nearly thirteen years.
When Warde isn't writing about fairies and centaurs he works for several libraries and is a proud father and husband. While he was born and raised in Utah, he has called California home for nearly thirteen years.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 8, 2026
The Stolen Idol was a really fun, ambitious read that blends mythology, emotion, and a high-stakes plot in a way that mostly worked for me. From the start, I loved the found family dynamic and how deeply tangled the relationships became—especially with the threads of unrequited love, betrayal, and family conflict running through everything.
The mythology is clearly the heart of this story, pulling from Celtic, Greek, Norse, and Egyptian lore, and I appreciated how rich and intentional that worldbuilding felt. That said, there were moments where I felt a bit overwhelmed. With so many mythological elements and so much happening at once, I occasionally found myself confused or needing to pause and reorient. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did make certain sections harder to fully sink into.
The heist-gone-wrong aspect kept the tension high, and I really enjoyed the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ representation, which felt thoughtfully woven into the story rather than added as an afterthought. Even when I was slightly lost, I stayed invested in the characters and their choices.
Overall, this was a strong and engaging read with a lot going for it. A little more clarity in the denser mythological moments would’ve pushed it even higher for me, but I still had a great time with it and would absolutely continue reading more from this author.
The mythology is clearly the heart of this story, pulling from Celtic, Greek, Norse, and Egyptian lore, and I appreciated how rich and intentional that worldbuilding felt. That said, there were moments where I felt a bit overwhelmed. With so many mythological elements and so much happening at once, I occasionally found myself confused or needing to pause and reorient. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did make certain sections harder to fully sink into.
The heist-gone-wrong aspect kept the tension high, and I really enjoyed the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ representation, which felt thoughtfully woven into the story rather than added as an afterthought. Even when I was slightly lost, I stayed invested in the characters and their choices.
Overall, this was a strong and engaging read with a lot going for it. A little more clarity in the denser mythological moments would’ve pushed it even higher for me, but I still had a great time with it and would absolutely continue reading more from this author.
Review of advance copy
Thank you to C. Warde Lee and BookSirens for this free ARC.
✔️ Thoughts
The Stolen Idol is a multi-PoV story that brings together a group of characters, all after an idol depicting Artemis, Greek goddess of the hunt. Within the group are Fotini, a young centaur devout to the goddess; her satyr friend, Tragos; and their employer, the fae Ailsa, who is after the idol for a client. Along the way they encounter, Jaime, a human who's drawn into their quest after his father accuses him of being a changeling.
The story is well written, with fairly even pacing throughout. I found it interesting to note how the book explores the fact that people suspect their children of being changelings just because they're 'different'. It's the main theme I wanted to mention—blaming the supernatural for another's unique traits, rather than entertaining the idea that those differences are perfectly natural.
My favourite part of the book was the blending of various cultures and mythologies, particularly of Britain, Greece, Scandinavia and Egypt. Mythology is one of favourite subjects, so it's always fun to see an author's take on the legends, especially when they're mixed together in a story like this.
The main characters are all well round and interesting. While I didn't have a favourite, I did have a slight preference for Cat Sí. Her backstory is full of mystery, and I really liked her protective attitude towards Jaime.
Overall, The Stolen Idol was a nice read. It had many elements that I usually love, but it didn't really grip me as much as I thought it would. However, if you enjoy 'found families' and stories where mythologies mix, then give this a try! 😊
✔️ Thoughts
The Stolen Idol is a multi-PoV story that brings together a group of characters, all after an idol depicting Artemis, Greek goddess of the hunt. Within the group are Fotini, a young centaur devout to the goddess; her satyr friend, Tragos; and their employer, the fae Ailsa, who is after the idol for a client. Along the way they encounter, Jaime, a human who's drawn into their quest after his father accuses him of being a changeling.
The story is well written, with fairly even pacing throughout. I found it interesting to note how the book explores the fact that people suspect their children of being changelings just because they're 'different'. It's the main theme I wanted to mention—blaming the supernatural for another's unique traits, rather than entertaining the idea that those differences are perfectly natural.
My favourite part of the book was the blending of various cultures and mythologies, particularly of Britain, Greece, Scandinavia and Egypt. Mythology is one of favourite subjects, so it's always fun to see an author's take on the legends, especially when they're mixed together in a story like this.
The main characters are all well round and interesting. While I didn't have a favourite, I did have a slight preference for Cat Sí. Her backstory is full of mystery, and I really liked her protective attitude towards Jaime.
Overall, The Stolen Idol was a nice read. It had many elements that I usually love, but it didn't really grip me as much as I thought it would. However, if you enjoy 'found families' and stories where mythologies mix, then give this a try! 😊
March 10, 2026
Fotini and Tragos are just trying to finish another job to reach their goal of traveling to Fotini's homeland in Greece. Because they are Children of Pan that will take a lot of coin but obtaining this idol will finally get them there. Ailsa is a promise bound fae that made a bargain with the Cat Sí to obtain a specific idol and will do anything to make sure it is fulfilled. Jaimie is drifting through life at his father's whim hoping to be someone his father can be proud of, something that becomes harder by the day. Gorm is looking for acceptance and a place to call home in a land that is not his. And the Cat Sí that prompted the events of requiring this idol, she is trying to find something that was stolen from her in many ways. With her memories clouded, she knows she has drifted for a long time never truly being at home but knows a message to help her is waiting. One stolen idol brings change and revelations that none of these parties could have imagined.
I will start by saying that I didn't know what to expect reading this, this is a new to me author with a synopsis that caught my attention. What I ended up with was a story that held my attention with complex characters having unique stories to tell and left me feeling so many emotions by the end of the book. As much as you may not agree with some of the events or reasoning you can understand how they got there and what was driving them. The overlapping and simultaneous mythology and pantheons reminded me a bit of American Gods but unique in its own way. Which added a twist to interpretations that had me hooked. The last third of the book was just magnificent and I cannot gush about it without spoiling it. This was a read that truly stood out to me and I am looking forward for more from this author.
I will start by saying that I didn't know what to expect reading this, this is a new to me author with a synopsis that caught my attention. What I ended up with was a story that held my attention with complex characters having unique stories to tell and left me feeling so many emotions by the end of the book. As much as you may not agree with some of the events or reasoning you can understand how they got there and what was driving them. The overlapping and simultaneous mythology and pantheons reminded me a bit of American Gods but unique in its own way. Which added a twist to interpretations that had me hooked. The last third of the book was just magnificent and I cannot gush about it without spoiling it. This was a read that truly stood out to me and I am looking forward for more from this author.
Review of advance copy
I was so lucky to be gifted with an ARC copy of this book.
There are plenty of novels that have been written about the Greek Pantheon. Though this book is a little different than the rest. When the Greek pantheon is involved, there are several other pantheons involved, such as Celtic, Norse, and Egyptian. The moment I learned that this book involved not one but multiple types of mythology, I was sold!
The Stolen Idol has it all: found family, unrequited love, betrayal, heists, and LGBTQIA+ themes. Though it is not what it appears at the start. That is something I truly loved about this novel. It is also the first book in a series.
This is for fans of series like Crucible Trilogy (Abigail Owen), Villains of Lore Series (Jasmine Mas), Oak & Holly Cycle (K.A. Linde), and Percy Jackson (Rick Riordan).
The book does not offer spice, but I honestly think it does well without having those elements. I haven't had the opportunity to read many novels that focus on mythologies other than Greek, as they are the majority of novels. However, this novel offers a new take on various mythologies.
The book has lots of twists and turns that continue to keep the reader actively wanting more. I honestly can't wait for the next installment and to see where it takes us.
There are plenty of novels that have been written about the Greek Pantheon. Though this book is a little different than the rest. When the Greek pantheon is involved, there are several other pantheons involved, such as Celtic, Norse, and Egyptian. The moment I learned that this book involved not one but multiple types of mythology, I was sold!
The Stolen Idol has it all: found family, unrequited love, betrayal, heists, and LGBTQIA+ themes. Though it is not what it appears at the start. That is something I truly loved about this novel. It is also the first book in a series.
This is for fans of series like Crucible Trilogy (Abigail Owen), Villains of Lore Series (Jasmine Mas), Oak & Holly Cycle (K.A. Linde), and Percy Jackson (Rick Riordan).
The book does not offer spice, but I honestly think it does well without having those elements. I haven't had the opportunity to read many novels that focus on mythologies other than Greek, as they are the majority of novels. However, this novel offers a new take on various mythologies.
The book has lots of twists and turns that continue to keep the reader actively wanting more. I honestly can't wait for the next installment and to see where it takes us.
Review of advance copy
Thank you to BookSirens for blessing me with this ARC!
Wow, just wow! I am very grateful to have been able to read this work as my first ARC. The worldbuilding was stunning, the research was thorough, and everything was woven together beautifully.
'The Stolen Idol' is a third-person, multi-POV story
that follows a small group of unconventional creatures bound by an unbreakable bond. The story starts with Fotini, a centaur, and Tragos, a satyr, who work as thieves for Ailsa, a fae. When Fotini and Tragos are sent to retrieve the idol, they encounter Jaimie, a human whose life has been turned upside down.
This work is well-paced and well written. The aspect I like the most was that the LGBTQIA+ was well woven into the story.
My rating is a very strong 4 stars. The only thing that kept it from being a 5 star was that the 'romance' felt a bit glossed over. I would have liked more of a deep dive into the feelings, but not so much that it would have become a romantasy.
Overall, I really liked this work and am looking forward to anything C. Warde Lee releases in the future!
Wow, just wow! I am very grateful to have been able to read this work as my first ARC. The worldbuilding was stunning, the research was thorough, and everything was woven together beautifully.
'The Stolen Idol' is a third-person, multi-POV story
that follows a small group of unconventional creatures bound by an unbreakable bond. The story starts with Fotini, a centaur, and Tragos, a satyr, who work as thieves for Ailsa, a fae. When Fotini and Tragos are sent to retrieve the idol, they encounter Jaimie, a human whose life has been turned upside down.
This work is well-paced and well written. The aspect I like the most was that the LGBTQIA+ was well woven into the story.
My rating is a very strong 4 stars. The only thing that kept it from being a 5 star was that the 'romance' felt a bit glossed over. I would have liked more of a deep dive into the feelings, but not so much that it would have become a romantasy.
Overall, I really liked this work and am looking forward to anything C. Warde Lee releases in the future!
February 19, 2026
This debut novel was so good! The mythology is so authentic, and the world is incredibly well developed! C.Warde Lee for sure did a lot of in-depth research when writing the story to stay as accurate to the original mythos. One idol, multiple stories, many adventures!
The characters in this book were thought out and I really connected with them. I will say that I did want a little more background. Cat Si was probably my favorite character. I love that she is on this journey to discover who she is and where she came from but in the process, she finds this amazing group of people. I love her mysterious backstory.
The pacing is pretty steady through the entire book. I love the concept of Jamie and his dad thinking he was a changeling. This was commonplace in those times, it was thought that a child that was not behaving in stereotypical way, was in fact not the child but a fae changeling. The fact that Cat Si bonds with Jamie melted my heart.
Overall, this was such a wonderful story, and I am biting at the bit for the next installment!
The characters in this book were thought out and I really connected with them. I will say that I did want a little more background. Cat Si was probably my favorite character. I love that she is on this journey to discover who she is and where she came from but in the process, she finds this amazing group of people. I love her mysterious backstory.
The pacing is pretty steady through the entire book. I love the concept of Jamie and his dad thinking he was a changeling. This was commonplace in those times, it was thought that a child that was not behaving in stereotypical way, was in fact not the child but a fae changeling. The fact that Cat Si bonds with Jamie melted my heart.
Overall, this was such a wonderful story, and I am biting at the bit for the next installment!
Review of advance copy
This book was a charming mix of Ancient Greek, Norse, and Irish folklore. I really enjoyed the setting and the fantasy elements. I've never read a book where a centaur was a main character before, so that was a pleasant surprise! I particularly enjoyed reading from Jaimie and the Cait Si's perspectives. Jaimie is a very earnest and kind young man, and the Cait Si's abilities and view of the world were mysterious and interesting.
I think the book might have had too many points of view; for instance I don't think we needed Tragos or Ailsa's perspectives and the story might have been stronger if they stayed as side characters. Also, towards the end, some additional mythologies are drawn into the story that felt a bit out of the blue and strange. But this was still a fun read and a creative remix of traditional fantasy.
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced review copy of this book from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I think the book might have had too many points of view; for instance I don't think we needed Tragos or Ailsa's perspectives and the story might have been stronger if they stayed as side characters. Also, towards the end, some additional mythologies are drawn into the story that felt a bit out of the blue and strange. But this was still a fun read and a creative remix of traditional fantasy.
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced review copy of this book from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 23, 2026
It was a good book. Filled with adventure, the Cat Sí was presented to us as a figure of worship and the buildup to the final climax was exciting and fun to read. The losses at the end were expected given the stakes of the battle. I however was a tad bit dissapointed on the real identity of the Cat Sí. I did expect greek gods. But the reveal that Artemis was older than all the greek and fought with the god of thunder and defeated him just confused me.
If you like adventure fantasy and a mix of greek, roman, nordic and egyptian mythology then you will probably like this book. There is a lot of description but the writing is pretty comfortable to read through. For me however not being used to heavy fantasy, it did feel heavy at times and did drag on. Oh there was also irish folklore with Morrígan being a figure here. If you like adventure packed fantasy in my opinion this book is for you.
Thank you BookSirens for an advanced copy of this work.
If you like adventure fantasy and a mix of greek, roman, nordic and egyptian mythology then you will probably like this book. There is a lot of description but the writing is pretty comfortable to read through. For me however not being used to heavy fantasy, it did feel heavy at times and did drag on. Oh there was also irish folklore with Morrígan being a figure here. If you like adventure packed fantasy in my opinion this book is for you.
Thank you BookSirens for an advanced copy of this work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the first paragraphs to the grand reveal, The Stolen Idol is an adventurous, well-paced tale.
The weaving of of many pantheons, with more layers than a wedding cake, brings so much life to the story. The characters are complicated and full of purpose. They have quests, but, as with any good mythological tale, the quests have them.
The descriptive writing felt poetic, with settings bursting from the pages.
I cannot say enough good things about The Stolen Idol. I feel lucky to read it. I cannot wait until it is formally released and I can share it with my friends and family! Definitely appropriate for middle grade and older. There are so many lessons to be built of this book for the younger and older readers.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The weaving of of many pantheons, with more layers than a wedding cake, brings so much life to the story. The characters are complicated and full of purpose. They have quests, but, as with any good mythological tale, the quests have them.
The descriptive writing felt poetic, with settings bursting from the pages.
I cannot say enough good things about The Stolen Idol. I feel lucky to read it. I cannot wait until it is formally released and I can share it with my friends and family! Definitely appropriate for middle grade and older. There are so many lessons to be built of this book for the younger and older readers.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2026
A Journey from Betrayal to Belonging
This was an emotional and compelling YA read about a son forced to flee after being accused of something he didn’t do — hunted by his own father. The tension immediately pulls you in and keeps the stakes high.
What really stood out was the blend of multicultural mythology woven into the story. The different legends add richness to the world-building, especially as the main group works together to save the fae. That larger mission makes the journey feel epic while still grounded in personal emotion.
The found family theme is the true heart of the book, showing that loyalty and love are chosen, not just inherited. While the pacing slows slightly in places, it’s still a strong four-star read for fans of mythological YA with heart and magic.
This was an emotional and compelling YA read about a son forced to flee after being accused of something he didn’t do — hunted by his own father. The tension immediately pulls you in and keeps the stakes high.
What really stood out was the blend of multicultural mythology woven into the story. The different legends add richness to the world-building, especially as the main group works together to save the fae. That larger mission makes the journey feel epic while still grounded in personal emotion.
The found family theme is the true heart of the book, showing that loyalty and love are chosen, not just inherited. While the pacing slows slightly in places, it’s still a strong four-star read for fans of mythological YA with heart and magic.
February 8, 2026
This book had a synopsis that had really caught my attention with the mythology coming from different parts of the world. It’s a multi POV story that has adventure and found family. When I read this was a story where one of the main characters was accused of being a changeling because his father couldn’t handle the thought of his son being into men. The LGBTQIA+ story was entwined in the story very well. It’s not thrown in as an after thought but as a well thought out sub plot. I enjoyed the found family aspect. There were parts where I was very enthralled with the story and couldn’t put it down but other parts I was slightly disengaged. The overall story was entertaining. I look forward to seeing what comes next.
February 12, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed the mix of mythologies- that was the highlight of the book for me. Overall, the book was just middle of the road for me- I didn't dislike it, but I didn't love it. I most definitely liked it, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to the right person, but there wasn't anything specific that I can say, "this would have made it a 5 star read." I wasn't a fan of Gorm becoming an antagonist after shooting poor Jaimie down, but that's a personal preference rather than an objective narrative flaw, and it does make sense in his circumstances. Once again, this was a solid book, and I appreciate the chance to give it a read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2026
The Stolen Idol is a multi-POV fantasy that follows our crew of characters as they each chase and travel with an idol of a goddess for their own benefits.
I absolutely loved the concept of this work and loved the wide array of worlds and cultures that we get to explore.
Because we get to see the story through the POV of so many characters and see what their motivations are, I felt as though we did not get to spend as long as I would have liked with the individual characters. I would have loved more time with the characters and their individual worlds and histories.
I did appreciate that the multitude of plot lines that get introduced do all get resolved (mostly) satisfyingly in the end and I just wish I had got to stay immersed longer.
I absolutely loved the concept of this work and loved the wide array of worlds and cultures that we get to explore.
Because we get to see the story through the POV of so many characters and see what their motivations are, I felt as though we did not get to spend as long as I would have liked with the individual characters. I would have loved more time with the characters and their individual worlds and histories.
I did appreciate that the multitude of plot lines that get introduced do all get resolved (mostly) satisfyingly in the end and I just wish I had got to stay immersed longer.
February 20, 2026
This was a story that pulls you in with the characters from different backgrounds and beliefs. Jamie is a human male who cannot follow what his father wants. Tragor who has decided humans aren't to be trusted. Fotini believes in Artemis and all the Greek Gods. Alisa is a fairy that runs the village that resides in the forest the Cat Si protects. Fotini took up the beliefs of the village and pray to Artemis along with asking Cat Si for help. Jamie meets up with them when Cat Si rescues him from his father. They then set off on an adventure to try to save the Fae from the hitmen Jamie's father hired to get rid of anything magical. I can't wait for the next book to see how it continues.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
**Thank you to C. Warde Lee, Jousting Centaur and Booksirens for an advance copy, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily**
I don't think I will ever be sick of books containing the Greek Pantheon & this book contained several others: Norse, Celtic, and Egyptian, which in my opinion just makes it even better. (Thank you to Rick Riordan for opening my eyes to more pantheons than just Greek/Roman)
I won't spoil it, but I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
It is very obvious that the author did their research and beautifully weaved the mythologies together creating an amazing book.
I don't think I will ever be sick of books containing the Greek Pantheon & this book contained several others: Norse, Celtic, and Egyptian, which in my opinion just makes it even better. (Thank you to Rick Riordan for opening my eyes to more pantheons than just Greek/Roman)
I won't spoil it, but I couldn't put it down until I finished it.
It is very obvious that the author did their research and beautifully weaved the mythologies together creating an amazing book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Stolen Idol by C. Warde Lee is a fantastic, page-turning adventure that completely pulled me in. I loved the creative mix of Greek, Celtic, Norse, and Egyptian mythology, and the band of misfit characters quickly became ones I truly cared about. The climax and ending were especially gripping, and I finished the book genuinely excited for the next installment! Despite foreshadowing future adventures for the characters, The Stolen Idol came to a satisfying end that did not feel like a cliffhanger.
Review of advance copy
I was lucky enough to snag an ARC copy of this novel pre-publication in exchange for an honest review.
This novel was an entertaining and creative twist on classic pantheons and creatures from several mythologies. The characters are likeable and the author presents concepts like prejudice using their species or their sexuality in a new way to drive the conflict and their character growth. This was a fast-paced, quick read that kept me turning the pages. The plot action and developing found family in the story will leave you satisfied in the end.
Definitely recommend!
This novel was an entertaining and creative twist on classic pantheons and creatures from several mythologies. The characters are likeable and the author presents concepts like prejudice using their species or their sexuality in a new way to drive the conflict and their character growth. This was a fast-paced, quick read that kept me turning the pages. The plot action and developing found family in the story will leave you satisfied in the end.
Definitely recommend!
Review of advance copy
100% recommend this book. I really really enjoyed it. I liked the fact that it was a combination of different mythologies, fantasy and supernatural. How I felt… hmm. The fact that the main human character was gay made my day brighter as I too am gay, so that resonated with me. The character interactions and development were brilliant. The ending was bittersweet and got me a little emotional.
I will definitely buy this book when I can afford it.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I will definitely buy this book when I can afford it.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I loved this book!! I found myself staying up way too late reading because I simply could not put it down.
The way the author included and intertwined many different mythologies was both exciting and believable! I found that I truly cared about the characters and felt invested in the story.
It was very clear that the author did his research and put his heart and soul into his writing. It was beautifully written and I am excited for any future installments to the series!
The way the author included and intertwined many different mythologies was both exciting and believable! I found that I truly cared about the characters and felt invested in the story.
It was very clear that the author did his research and put his heart and soul into his writing. It was beautifully written and I am excited for any future installments to the series!
February 2, 2026
I really enjoyed getting into this opening chapter of the Pantheons series, it uses the Greek mythology element that I was looking for and enjoyed getting into this world and characters. It uses the mythology element that I wanted and enjoyed the gods and goddess of this tale. C. Warde Lee was able to create something that I wanted and was hooked from the first page and can't wait for more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2026
The opening scene sets the tone. I was not expecting it and I loved the surprise. If you enjoy a fantasy interwoven with familiar [and not so familiar] mythological creatures and gods, this book is for you.
The main characters are believable even if they are found in mythology, not walking down a village street.
As a reader of historical fiction, the historical aspect of the story enhanced it for me.
The main characters are believable even if they are found in mythology, not walking down a village street.
As a reader of historical fiction, the historical aspect of the story enhanced it for me.
Review of advance copy
This book was a wild ride of emotions from a wild hook to get you wanting more to the emotional trauma that ensued by the end. I felt so deeply for the characters and their mission. It was a beautiful blend of mythology without being jarring. Will definitely be looking into everything else this author writes. First read of the year and what a great way to start! 100% recommend!
January 23, 2026
I really enjoyed The Stolen Idol! Centaurs, fae, Greek Gods, Olympians! Epic battles! This fast paced story finds 2 thief’s in mortal danger as they quest to find an idol they lost shortly after stealing it. Teaming up with unlikely allies, they end up fighting for their lives against a summoned God(won’t give who away), and so much more! I highly recommend The Stolen Idol!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a fantastic debut novel! The characters are likable, memorable, and unique. The author has an obvious strength in character work, but I do think that with such a short book, so many POVs left me wanting to hear more from each character. But overall, I can’t complain; this first entry has me excited to hear more from The Cat Sí!
March 24, 2026
Watched Lee's journey as he published The Stolen Idol and I am not disappointed by the end result. This was a great journey of found family, trust, and loss.
The ending has my jaw on the floor.
Stolen Idol is a Multi 3rdPOV fantasy journey in a world similar to our own in many ways.
Something I loved about the story was the blending of different pantheons and legends.
I hope that Lee has more planned for this world.
The ending has my jaw on the floor.
Stolen Idol is a Multi 3rdPOV fantasy journey in a world similar to our own in many ways.
Something I loved about the story was the blending of different pantheons and legends.
I hope that Lee has more planned for this world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An interesting combination of mythologies and adventure. This book would be a great read for teens/young adults, particularly after learning Greek mythology in school - a fun way to explore what might happen when those and other Gods clash, combined with tales of friendship and self discovery.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think what C. Warde Lee does well is create distinct characters. They feel different, well rounded, and have history. The Stolen Idol is a fun, fast read with a strong theme of found family.
Despite some difficult topics like religious zealotry, homophobia, and xenophobia, the story had a mostly cozy vibe.
Very interesting to note that there's a blend of mythologies/pantheons, and it's clear a lot of research went into this aspect of the story.
Despite some difficult topics like religious zealotry, homophobia, and xenophobia, the story had a mostly cozy vibe.
Very interesting to note that there's a blend of mythologies/pantheons, and it's clear a lot of research went into this aspect of the story.
February 17, 2026
I loved this book. It has been a great start to an author and world building. The characters really grab your attention and you care for each as you read through the story. I won’t spoil anything but the ending makes you excited to read more!
March 12, 2026
This book is a charming fantasy that especially speaks to fans of mythology. (I can't quite say the same for fans of history, as though it is on Earth, the timeline is very skewed).
The characters are incredibly endearing and the story is overall interesting and fun to follow. The mysteries and twists intrigued me and I was genuinely impressed with the way the ending tied things together.
Besides my slight gripes about historical accuracy, my main complaint about this book is the first twist is sold somewhat poorly, and it was a little hard to follow.
I did stick with it, however, and I'm glad I did, because I really fell in love with the characters and the way the story wove in everything I love about world mythology. I finished the book wanting more and ready to read an entire series. I really want to see this author show us more of their interpretations of myths and to see more of their characters.
I'd love to see this story become a staple for young adult fiction readers and I think it could certainly accomplish that.
(I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
The characters are incredibly endearing and the story is overall interesting and fun to follow. The mysteries and twists intrigued me and I was genuinely impressed with the way the ending tied things together.
Besides my slight gripes about historical accuracy, my main complaint about this book is the first twist is sold somewhat poorly, and it was a little hard to follow.
I did stick with it, however, and I'm glad I did, because I really fell in love with the characters and the way the story wove in everything I love about world mythology. I finished the book wanting more and ready to read an entire series. I really want to see this author show us more of their interpretations of myths and to see more of their characters.
I'd love to see this story become a staple for young adult fiction readers and I think it could certainly accomplish that.
(I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
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