The Myth of Aldez

by Steven Trifiletti

Aldez, a twelve-year-old introvert who earns side money clearing out pesky creatures with his prodigious sword skills, dreams of future glory while exploring the colorful lands of Hillian. As the unexpected paragon of the Cyclical Hero Myth—the need to rescue the heir to the throne from the evil deity, Astraraman—his karmic goal seems clear: accept training at the hands of the king’s advisors and preemptively protect the crown princess.  
  
But before the young hero is ready, Astraraman finds him; manifesting where the walls between the real world and the spirit realm are thin. However, instead of attacking Aldez, the deity seems to be helping, planting suspicion in the Myth's interpretation. All the while, mysterious forces are amassing from across the Crystal Sea.

Expected publication March 21, 2026

About the author

I’m the keeper of my grandmother’s sacred Italian meatball recipe and the number one fan of the detective show Monk.

Reviews

[Champ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has great start. I was caught up in the beginning of the story wondering what would happen with the main character. What was so special about him? It was compelling and I wanted to find out more. The story was solid. I feel the author at times would veer from the story to add things at times, I feel were not necessary. I loved the action at the start, and wished for more action throughout the book. Though, there were many suspenseful and tense moments that had me pulling for the main character. It also had some humor, and as a reader that grew up gaming I completely followed the quirky references. Overall, I would give the book a 2.5 stars rating. There are things I would change personally, but it that just my own opinion. I think others might enjoy the style of writing.

I was given a copy to review through NetGalley and approved by the author Steven Trifiletti. I would like to thank them for the opportunity. My review is my own personal opinions.

[Craig Page · Rating 3 out of 5]

Verdict:

A cosy, Zelda-inspired adventure through vibrant fantasy landscapes.

What worked for me:

The worldbuilding is vivid and easy to picture — rolling hills, forests, mountains, and seas all shaping the villages and tribes within them. The setting feels alive and thoughtfully constructed.

The characters are a quirky and interesting group with clear individuality. I would have liked to see them explored in greater depth, particularly in how their dynamics developed over time.

The story carries strong adventuring-party energy, which is always a plus for me.

Standout elements:

• Unique characters

• Light, humorous tone

Who is this for:

Readers who enjoy quirky, light-hearted adventures set in far-off lands.

Final thoughts:

I enjoyed the journey, but I wanted a little more — particularly in pacing and character development. At times the momentum dipped, which slightly pulled me out of the story, but overall it was an enjoyable and imaginative read.

[Katie May · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely perfect for Zelda fans and older millennials will pick up some of the old school gaming shout outs. Not a Lit RPG but has some of those elements thrown in.

I would have liked a little more showing than telling, but this is pretty short and easy to read, I finished in just 2 sittings. It takes a bit to get into the legend of the cyclical hero but I think it was a cool addition to the story. Classic hero story that never gets old.

Holds up as a stand alone but definitely introduces a world that could have other stories told and I would read them if this becomes a series.

Thank you to Netgalley and the author/publisher for an early copy of this book in exhange for an honest review.

[Golden Car · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Myth of Aldez was captivating to read. The adventures that Aldez went through can make you feel like you are part of the story. I was fascinated with all the story characters and how the Kingdom hierarchy interacted. The enchanting events throughout the story keep you in suspense and interested, since it is a fantasy with a medieval feel and time period. This is a great book for all ages to read. It is also an inspirational story to see young characters working hard to achieve greatness. I look forward to seeing if this fantasy novel continues because it left me wanting more.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice, quick read, fantasy type of book. Trifiletti has the beginnings of another world with characters who will develop more as the story progresses. I like that this completes the initial story while also leaving the ending open for more. The feel of this is that it could be in a medieval time period but with contemporary language, making it a fun combination. It tends toward young adult books with the descriptions and details enough for the story but not overwhelming for a new reader. Enjoy!

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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It was really great! I read it on the bus to and from uni today in two big sessions. It was so good

[Jessi Sward · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the journey of this book. The world of Aldez is full of possibility, making you curious and excited to keep reading and see what happens next. The characters are incredibly endearing, mixing fairytale sweetness with crisp humor and wonderfully quirky personalities. It makes the whole adventure such a joy to follow.

This is a genuinely cozy fantasy that will tug at your heartstrings in some moments and keep you on the edge of your seat in others. I’m genuinely excited for where the series goes next.