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The Gridd: Perils of the Lightholder
What if the world survives only because a few chosen guardians stand between light and total collapse?
Sixteen-year-old Alick Rae isn’t just different—he’s dangerous. A gifted athlete with a temper he can’t control, Alick discovers that his rage ignites something fire in one hand, ice in the other. When his parents vanish without a trace and he’s sent to live with a grandfather he’s never met, his world collapses—only to reveal a far greater one beneath it.
His grandfather is a wizard.
One of the last Protectors of The Gridd, an ancient energy mesh shielding the Earth from destruction across oceans, ice lands, forests, and fire realms.
As Alick’s abilities awaken, he’s pulled into dangerous trials, secret alliances, and brutal competitions that will decide more than his fate.
He’s Grieving. Untrained. Watched.
And The Gridd is weakening.
Sixteen-year-old Alick Rae isn’t just different—he’s dangerous. A gifted athlete with a temper he can’t control, Alick discovers that his rage ignites something fire in one hand, ice in the other. When his parents vanish without a trace and he’s sent to live with a grandfather he’s never met, his world collapses—only to reveal a far greater one beneath it.
His grandfather is a wizard.
One of the last Protectors of The Gridd, an ancient energy mesh shielding the Earth from destruction across oceans, ice lands, forests, and fire realms.
As Alick’s abilities awaken, he’s pulled into dangerous trials, secret alliances, and brutal competitions that will decide more than his fate.
He’s Grieving. Untrained. Watched.
And The Gridd is weakening.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2026
About the author
J.L. Marrain
1 book515 followersJ.L. Marrain is a passionate storyteller dedicated to crafting immersive worlds that blend magic with meaningful messages. The Gridd: Perils of the Lightholder marks the beginning of an ambitious fantasy series. The Gridd won a literary fiction competition In New York City, and had the chance of being reviewed by one of the major publishers in the world. J.L. says, “In the realms of the Real World, and in the Fantasy Worlds, there is good, and bad; when one chooses you, you will have to decide which one you choose. I choose Fantasy!"
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
‘Great morning, I call on your powers of light to destroy this darkness’ – A powerful fantasy!
Author J.L. Marrain writes fantasy worlds haunted by loss, driven by destiny, and forged by the fire that shapes identity, where a new legend begins. On his website the author condenses the scope of this new book well: ‘Follow 16-year-old Alick Rae as he discovers his magical heritage, navigates a hidden world of protectors called Lightholders, and faces cosmic threats that could destroy Earth. After being orphaned and sent to live with his estranged grandfather, Roderick Rae (Double R), Alick discovers his latent wizard powers. Together, they uncover The Gridd, a mystical energy mesh that protects Earth from cosmic dangers. As Alick trains, he forms alliances with diverse clans, including the ice-wielding Algrids, Amazonian shapeshifters called Fortrills, underwater Atlanteans, fire-wielding Stygeons, and the Scottish Rudyah Clan and magical Faerys. Each group brings unique skills, challenges, and friendships, guiding Alick toward his ultimate destiny.’
Yes, the novel is rich in fantasy myths, but the opening lines wisely introduce the primary character as a credible being: ‘Alick Rae was in the zone. The grass was plush under his feet as he flew down the right flank of the field. He outpaced the opposition, running easily past the defense. He kept the soccer ball close to his feet and cut to the middle of the field. He could dimly hear the cheering of his teammates from the sidelines as the world slowed down. The breeze was light, and he paused to line up a kick. He struck hard with his left foot. The ball bent around the keeper and went into the net, “Goalllllllll!” he heard the cries of joy’. This vigorous lad draws the reader into an unforgettable fantasy, his journey greatly enhanced with richly colorful, excellent illustrations. A very impressive writing debut for JL Marrain!
Author J.L. Marrain writes fantasy worlds haunted by loss, driven by destiny, and forged by the fire that shapes identity, where a new legend begins. On his website the author condenses the scope of this new book well: ‘Follow 16-year-old Alick Rae as he discovers his magical heritage, navigates a hidden world of protectors called Lightholders, and faces cosmic threats that could destroy Earth. After being orphaned and sent to live with his estranged grandfather, Roderick Rae (Double R), Alick discovers his latent wizard powers. Together, they uncover The Gridd, a mystical energy mesh that protects Earth from cosmic dangers. As Alick trains, he forms alliances with diverse clans, including the ice-wielding Algrids, Amazonian shapeshifters called Fortrills, underwater Atlanteans, fire-wielding Stygeons, and the Scottish Rudyah Clan and magical Faerys. Each group brings unique skills, challenges, and friendships, guiding Alick toward his ultimate destiny.’
Yes, the novel is rich in fantasy myths, but the opening lines wisely introduce the primary character as a credible being: ‘Alick Rae was in the zone. The grass was plush under his feet as he flew down the right flank of the field. He outpaced the opposition, running easily past the defense. He kept the soccer ball close to his feet and cut to the middle of the field. He could dimly hear the cheering of his teammates from the sidelines as the world slowed down. The breeze was light, and he paused to line up a kick. He struck hard with his left foot. The ball bent around the keeper and went into the net, “Goalllllllll!” he heard the cries of joy’. This vigorous lad draws the reader into an unforgettable fantasy, his journey greatly enhanced with richly colorful, excellent illustrations. A very impressive writing debut for JL Marrain!
March 10, 2026
I picked up this book because I enjoy fantasy stories that mix magic, mystery, and high-stakes adventures. The idea of hidden saviors who are entitled to protect the world from collapse immediately caught my attention.
The story surrounds sixteen-year-old Alick Rae. He is a talented athlete who struggles with a temper he can’t control, but who knew that this was the biggest twist in the story. Yes! His life changes suddenly when he discovers that his anger triggers strange powers. Thats intresting!
In a difficult scenario when his parents mysteriously disappear, he gets introduced to his grandfather, whom he never met before, and that brings the unveiling of a wizard in the story. Alick's grandfather is none other than the last Protector of the Gridd, an ancient energy network that shields Earth from destruction across different realms. The story further unfolds, Alick channelizing his powers, learning more about the Gridd, and making alliances for the future.
I liked the fast pace and imaginative world-building in the story.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy magical adventures and coming-of-age stories. Although I am in my thirties, I can say I enjoyed it more than any teenage novel, as it has an amazing story building.
The story surrounds sixteen-year-old Alick Rae. He is a talented athlete who struggles with a temper he can’t control, but who knew that this was the biggest twist in the story. Yes! His life changes suddenly when he discovers that his anger triggers strange powers. Thats intresting!
In a difficult scenario when his parents mysteriously disappear, he gets introduced to his grandfather, whom he never met before, and that brings the unveiling of a wizard in the story. Alick's grandfather is none other than the last Protector of the Gridd, an ancient energy network that shields Earth from destruction across different realms. The story further unfolds, Alick channelizing his powers, learning more about the Gridd, and making alliances for the future.
I liked the fast pace and imaginative world-building in the story.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy magical adventures and coming-of-age stories. Although I am in my thirties, I can say I enjoyed it more than any teenage novel, as it has an amazing story building.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What would you do if, in the middle of getting beaten up behind your school… something inside you suddenly woke up? That’s the moment The Gridd by J L Marrain hooks you, and it doesn’t let go.
We’re introduced to Alick Rae, a talented footballer at Wembly Hall who already feels like an outsider as one of the few American students. His rivalry with the brutal Henry Pike seems like typical school tension… until it turns into something much bigger. During one of Henry’s attacks, Alick experiences a strange burst of energy, something powerful, something he doesn’t understand.
And that’s when the story begins to shift. What starts as a grounded school setting quickly opens into something far more expansive, a layered journey through realms, challenges, and alliances that feel almost mythic. As Alick’s world grows beyond bullies and locker rooms into encounters that hint at hidden forces and deeper destinies, the narrative moves from coming-of-age drama into full-scale adventure.
The beauty of J L Marrain’s storytelling is that it never loses sight of Alick as a person. His vulnerability, confusion, and courage anchor the increasingly fantastical world around him.
By the time the story expands into quests, battles, and the wider mysteries of “The Grid,” you’re left wondering: Was Alick ever just an ordinary student… or was this power always waiting for its moment?
You might like to wander through a few artistic journals — they’re full of sparks and surprises.
We’re introduced to Alick Rae, a talented footballer at Wembly Hall who already feels like an outsider as one of the few American students. His rivalry with the brutal Henry Pike seems like typical school tension… until it turns into something much bigger. During one of Henry’s attacks, Alick experiences a strange burst of energy, something powerful, something he doesn’t understand.
And that’s when the story begins to shift. What starts as a grounded school setting quickly opens into something far more expansive, a layered journey through realms, challenges, and alliances that feel almost mythic. As Alick’s world grows beyond bullies and locker rooms into encounters that hint at hidden forces and deeper destinies, the narrative moves from coming-of-age drama into full-scale adventure.
The beauty of J L Marrain’s storytelling is that it never loses sight of Alick as a person. His vulnerability, confusion, and courage anchor the increasingly fantastical world around him.
By the time the story expands into quests, battles, and the wider mysteries of “The Grid,” you’re left wondering: Was Alick ever just an ordinary student… or was this power always waiting for its moment?
You might like to wander through a few artistic journals — they’re full of sparks and surprises.
March 27, 2026
The Gridd is a fast, very readable YA fantasy opener where a talented, angry sixteen-year-old basically discovers his hands come with a “fire” setting and an “ice” setting, which is a LOT for a school hallway.
Alick Rae starts out at a private school in England, gets jumped by bullies, and the scene goes sideways in a way that’s both alarming and kind of “okay so we’re doing THIS now.”
Then the adults drop the news that his parents have been missing for months, and he’s being shipped off to Virginia to live with a grandfather he’s never met, like it’s a routine scheduling update.
Chapter two hits with the grandfather (Roderick “Double R” Rae) living the calm estate life with a black stallion named Fury, and the contrast with Alick’s vibe is honestly hilarious in a tense way.
The book doesn’t waste time piling on grief either, and there’s a gut-punch reveal about what happened to Alick’s parents in Thailand that lands hard.
From there, the story tees up the bigger mythos: Protectors, The Gridd, and a whole realm-hopping fantasy setup that looks like it’s going to go global (and then some).
Love the premise, love the clean pacing, and I liked that the magic feels dangerous instead of cute.
Sometimes the dialogue is a little straightforward, but it fits the quick, cinematic style.
Be warned for bullying/violence, parental death, and heavy grief.
March 16, 2026
The Gridd by J.L. Marrain takes you behind the scenes as the few who protect the world face two major crises while welcoming a new wizard to the bunch. Alick Rae didn’t even meet his paternal grandfather until his parents died when he was 16 years old. Now he is learning about the powers he inherited as the world faces a meteorite collision. If that isn’t bad, one of the teenagers decides it’s time for him to reign over the world. Each of these powerful teenagers faces the opportunity to rebel against protecting The Gridd they are sworn to protect and align themselves with a new ruler. Will following in their guardians’ footsteps be enough for now?
I found The Gridd mesmerizing as J.L. Marrain brings a captivating story to life. A young wizard coming to power, while nurtured by his grandfather, is a solid plot, as anything can be thrown in their path. The pace quickens as other defenders gather to discuss the imminent meteorite. There is plenty of action between the games between the teenagers and the battle for peace. Any young adult interested in mythology will be drawn in by the creative writing and magical individuals. I thoroughly enjoyed the last battle and can easily see the author bringing Alick Rae back to fight again.
I found The Gridd mesmerizing as J.L. Marrain brings a captivating story to life. A young wizard coming to power, while nurtured by his grandfather, is a solid plot, as anything can be thrown in their path. The pace quickens as other defenders gather to discuss the imminent meteorite. There is plenty of action between the games between the teenagers and the battle for peace. Any young adult interested in mythology will be drawn in by the creative writing and magical individuals. I thoroughly enjoyed the last battle and can easily see the author bringing Alick Rae back to fight again.
May 21, 2026
I am not going to deny this; this is a guilty pleasure read. I have a huge soft spot for fantasy reads, and I especially love Young Adult Fantasy. It's been a while since I've picked something like this up, so I really enjoyed this. Like a breath of fresh air compared to the other books I've been picking up.
The book itself includes many classics, the orphaned boy, light vs dark, a larger hidden world, and ofcourse family secrets. It starts off with Alick Rae, whose parents are presumed dead, and he has to move in with his grandfather in Virginia. Then starts the story of discovery. He meets new people and discovers a new world.
The story itself is fun to read. It's got the typical companion and villain, but it's done quite well. I like how Alick has to work on himself and his emotional struggles in order to become a 'good' hero. I also like that even though he lost a part of himself, he finds it in other people and in a different place.
I won't deny it can get a bit overwhelming sometimes, and remembering everything, and I sincerely wish we knew more about the villain. I love a well-developed villain with a cause.
Overall, it's a good read.
The book itself includes many classics, the orphaned boy, light vs dark, a larger hidden world, and ofcourse family secrets. It starts off with Alick Rae, whose parents are presumed dead, and he has to move in with his grandfather in Virginia. Then starts the story of discovery. He meets new people and discovers a new world.
The story itself is fun to read. It's got the typical companion and villain, but it's done quite well. I like how Alick has to work on himself and his emotional struggles in order to become a 'good' hero. I also like that even though he lost a part of himself, he finds it in other people and in a different place.
I won't deny it can get a bit overwhelming sometimes, and remembering everything, and I sincerely wish we knew more about the villain. I love a well-developed villain with a cause.
Overall, it's a good read.
May 22, 2026
THE GRIDD resonates more with me, more than I expected. What stayed with me most was the idea that memories and emotions could become products. The book presents a world where corporations no longer sell services alone, they control consciousness itself. I found that deeply unsettling because it reflects real fears about data collection, algorithms, and digital dependency today.
I was impressed with the contrast between the polished digital paradise and the damaged physical world underneath it. Even though the real world is imperfect and painful, the novel suggests there is still something valuable in authentic human experience that cannot fully exist inside artificial systems.The novel also captures a very modern fear: the idea that people may willingly surrender privacy, memory, and personal freedom in exchange for convenience and comfort.
I was impressed with the contrast between the polished digital paradise and the damaged physical world underneath it. Even though the real world is imperfect and painful, the novel suggests there is still something valuable in authentic human experience that cannot fully exist inside artificial systems.The novel also captures a very modern fear: the idea that people may willingly surrender privacy, memory, and personal freedom in exchange for convenience and comfort.
April 9, 2026
I love a good fantasy that lets you dive in and leave the real world behind. It’s one of the great joys that got me into reading. Marrain does a wonderful job at this, crafting a rich, dynamic setting with the reader in mind. There are resources included (a table of contents, a translation dictionary, etc.) and art throughout. A lot of authors discount the reader experience for the sake of the plot, but this author manages to do both.
Alick is a wonderful main character, a young man thrown into a life he didn’t ask for. He navigates the changes with a brave face on and a kind spirit. I love that his arc is twofold: finding his place as an outsider, and embracing his status as something different.
Overall, this is a good fantasy story and is worth reading!
Alick is a wonderful main character, a young man thrown into a life he didn’t ask for. He navigates the changes with a brave face on and a kind spirit. I love that his arc is twofold: finding his place as an outsider, and embracing his status as something different.
Overall, this is a good fantasy story and is worth reading!
March 6, 2026
A hotheaded sixteen-year-old football star finds out his anger can literally freeze and burn people and then his parents vanish, so he’s shipped off to Virginia to live with a grandfather he barely knows while something much bigger starts circling.
Okay so this opens with Alick on the pitch, feeling untouchable, and then immediately yanks the rug out (parents missing, school drama, social worker escort, new life). I loved how fast the story flips from “teen chaos” to “wait… what is happening to his hands?” I genuinely gasped at the moment his temper turns physical one kid freezing, the other burning and Alick having zero clue how to stop it. Also, the whole arrival at grandpa’s estate vibe? Horses, quiet tension, secrets in the walls. Delicious.
My one complaint: some early dialogue is a little explain y, like the book’s hurrying to get us positioned.
Read this if you like magic waking up inside grief, troublemaking protagonists, and “small life” problems that suddenly aren’t small at all.
Okay so this opens with Alick on the pitch, feeling untouchable, and then immediately yanks the rug out (parents missing, school drama, social worker escort, new life). I loved how fast the story flips from “teen chaos” to “wait… what is happening to his hands?” I genuinely gasped at the moment his temper turns physical one kid freezing, the other burning and Alick having zero clue how to stop it. Also, the whole arrival at grandpa’s estate vibe? Horses, quiet tension, secrets in the walls. Delicious.
My one complaint: some early dialogue is a little explain y, like the book’s hurrying to get us positioned.
Read this if you like magic waking up inside grief, troublemaking protagonists, and “small life” problems that suddenly aren’t small at all.
May 22, 2026
This fantasy adventure story could easily be made into a movie series. Alick is a student in England playing football (soccer) when he learns his parents have vanished. He is sent to live with his grandfather, Double R. He is devastated as they don't have a relationship. However, Double R realizes Alick shares his magic and takes him on a fantastic journey to protect the Gridd, which shields the land from meteorites. Alick learns about the Protector tribes and their history, as well as the sad truth about power struggles and war. There are dragons and mermaids, along with magic and more. It will delight any fantasy lover. I enjoyed seeing the artwork at the beginning of each chapter.
Review of advance copy
J.L. Marrain offers a mix of epic fantasy and thoughtful character work in the book The Gridd: Perils of the Lightholder. The worldbuilding is detailed yet accessible, developing its lore gradually as tension grows. Marrain balances action with introspective moments, giving the story emotional depth and direction. Though the prose can seem dense at times, readers are rewarded with themes of duty, identity, and perseverance. This is a solid, atmospheric read for those who like layered, reflective fantasy. Highly recommended.
June 4, 2026
Review based off a GoodReads Giveaway.
August 28, 2026
Okay story
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway
I mostly enjoyed this story, although there were some inconsistencies that could have
been avoided easily with a decent editor. The most frequent inconsistency was how the grandfather spelled his last name. A decent word processing program would have allowed for an easy copy/ paste to ensure consistency.
This detracted from my enjoyment of the book enough that I had to bring it up.
I did try reading it about a month ago, but wasn't in the right head space for it, so it took 2 tries to get into it, but I'm sure that's a me thing.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway
I mostly enjoyed this story, although there were some inconsistencies that could have
been avoided easily with a decent editor. The most frequent inconsistency was how the grandfather spelled his last name. A decent word processing program would have allowed for an easy copy/ paste to ensure consistency.
This detracted from my enjoyment of the book enough that I had to bring it up.
I did try reading it about a month ago, but wasn't in the right head space for it, so it took 2 tries to get into it, but I'm sure that's a me thing.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews