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The Lore Wielder
The battle for Opal’s life has already begun. In a world planted from tragedy, with an everlasting-beauty lost, and legends reawakening, something sinister beckons to her heart. When the hope of belonging comes crashing down on her after her rite of passage as a Lore-wielder, the mark of an outcast appears on her skin. With her sister and childhood friend on a trip to another city, Nevma, Opal’s dragonfly companion, is the only friend she has left. Other than the boy she keeps running into. But when he, along with the whole town of Wisptale, discovers she was rejected as a Lore-wielder, her disappointment at their budding friendship forces her to the edge of darkness. Now, she must choose where she belongs—in the truth of life or in the shadowy embrace of a lie. Her choice sends her on a forbidden quest to find The Lost Garden. It's the only way to save Nevma’s life… Or is it to save her own?
Noura has one purpose outside the Rim, and it's a mission that hasn't been given in forty years. Drawn to Wisptale by two souls living there, Noura must learn to navigate life in a new world and befriend the two girls she was sent to guide. When her brother shows up, she realizes this is much bigger than Wisptale. Darkness is stirring across the water. Can she save her new friends, or will the enemy reach them first?
Noura has one purpose outside the Rim, and it's a mission that hasn't been given in forty years. Drawn to Wisptale by two souls living there, Noura must learn to navigate life in a new world and befriend the two girls she was sent to guide. When her brother shows up, she realizes this is much bigger than Wisptale. Darkness is stirring across the water. Can she save her new friends, or will the enemy reach them first?
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
April 14, 2026
A Resounding FIVE STARS for The Lore Wielder
I enjoyed every minute of this incredible story. It’s rich with depth and layered with meaning, often prompting me to pause and reflect each time I picked it up.
There were so many lines I underlined, but one that especially stayed with me was: “Hold on to what you know. Only what is tested truly becomes a part of you.”
The writing and storytelling felt reminiscent of C. S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, weaving themes of hope and light through a challenging and immersive journey. I immediately connected with Opal, the main character, as she struggled to find her place in a world where she feels inadequate. Her journey felt both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Page 278 (in the paperback edition) made me weep. It was written with such beauty, offering a raw and poignant reflection on life, loss, and grief. After drying my eyes, I read it again, slowly.
This YA coming-of-age Christian fantasy will resonate with readers of any age or background. Regardless of where you stand in your faith, it’s a powerful reminder that the light we search for is often something we must also learn to recognize within ourselves.
I enjoyed every minute of this incredible story. It’s rich with depth and layered with meaning, often prompting me to pause and reflect each time I picked it up.
There were so many lines I underlined, but one that especially stayed with me was: “Hold on to what you know. Only what is tested truly becomes a part of you.”
The writing and storytelling felt reminiscent of C. S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, weaving themes of hope and light through a challenging and immersive journey. I immediately connected with Opal, the main character, as she struggled to find her place in a world where she feels inadequate. Her journey felt both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Page 278 (in the paperback edition) made me weep. It was written with such beauty, offering a raw and poignant reflection on life, loss, and grief. After drying my eyes, I read it again, slowly.
This YA coming-of-age Christian fantasy will resonate with readers of any age or background. Regardless of where you stand in your faith, it’s a powerful reminder that the light we search for is often something we must also learn to recognize within ourselves.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Some books you want to read quickly and get to the end as fast as possible to see what happens and other books you want to take your time and savor every moment. This book is one you want to savor.
The world building is so thorough and unique, I’ve not read anything like it! The main element of importance in this book is the journey that the main character is on. It starts out at a slower pace so that you can fully experience what the main character is going through and understand the path that she ends up on. It centers around insecurities that so many experience and it brings so much hope out of it. It is reminiscent of C.S. Lewis and John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress and the allegorical faith elements are so deep and profound. This is a book that you could read over and over and still come away with new revelations. It has the makings of a classic!
It is completely clean and free of spice but it does deal with some mature themes like suicide and depression so it is better suited for YA and above. As a mom I look forward to introducing my girls to this book in the future
The world building is so thorough and unique, I’ve not read anything like it! The main element of importance in this book is the journey that the main character is on. It starts out at a slower pace so that you can fully experience what the main character is going through and understand the path that she ends up on. It centers around insecurities that so many experience and it brings so much hope out of it. It is reminiscent of C.S. Lewis and John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress and the allegorical faith elements are so deep and profound. This is a book that you could read over and over and still come away with new revelations. It has the makings of a classic!
It is completely clean and free of spice but it does deal with some mature themes like suicide and depression so it is better suited for YA and above. As a mom I look forward to introducing my girls to this book in the future
Review of advance copy received from Author
It's only March and I already know The Lore Wielder will be one of my top favorite books of 2026! The emotional journey this book takes you on is sensational, and the storytelling is unique and makes it impossible to put down. As any good book should, this one pulls you into another land where the world building is magical and charming, and yet is pulled apart by an epic quest and fierce battles that withstand the darkest of hours to keep hope burning bright.
I found the characters so lovable and so relatable, I couldn't help but root for them to win! This is the kind of book that makes you want to stay up way too late reading it, and one that will stick with you long after you finish the final pages. It is a captivating story that holds your attention while subtly giving out a level of wisdom and inspiration that goes far beyond a simple novel. This is one that will make you think, give you chills, and leave you with a feeling of wonder. Easy 5 stars!
I found the characters so lovable and so relatable, I couldn't help but root for them to win! This is the kind of book that makes you want to stay up way too late reading it, and one that will stick with you long after you finish the final pages. It is a captivating story that holds your attention while subtly giving out a level of wisdom and inspiration that goes far beyond a simple novel. This is one that will make you think, give you chills, and leave you with a feeling of wonder. Easy 5 stars!
May 13, 2026
There is too much I want to say. First, this book has all the nostalgia of The Pilgrim’s Progress and The Chronicles of Narnia. Love that. But the way Leslie tackles the subject of hopelessness, depression, anxiety, and isolation is powerful. Every emotion or thought Opal had I have had myself. I related so much to her and dearly wished I had this book when I was a middle schooler or in highschool. So, I will be purchasing a physical copy in the future and highlight everything to save for my daughters as they get older. I cried so much when she met the Heir. And the garden of red flowers! I sobbed. I needed that imagery more than I thought. You can tell Leslie put a lot of thought, heart, and faith into this story. ♥️ I can’t wait for book two!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2026
I was pulled in quickly and didn’t want it to end. This story and the world built around it is very unique. Yet, the characters are relatable.
Beautiful imagery and metaphor and left me with lots to think about. I felt invested in every character and felt so many emotions while reading. Grateful the author includes a preview of book 2 because there’s a big cliff hanger at the end!
Beautiful imagery and metaphor and left me with lots to think about. I felt invested in every character and felt so many emotions while reading. Grateful the author includes a preview of book 2 because there’s a big cliff hanger at the end!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Lore Wielder is a must read if you want to fall in love with reading again. The characters are relatable, yet inspiring, the story line is captivating, and the whole plot is life giving. Don’t miss Opals journey and the message this story portrays!
May 13, 2026
Amazing Read!
I can say without a doubt that this is one of the most interesting books I’ve read in a long time! The author has a way with words that completely pulls you into the story. I highly recommend it to anyone searching for their next great read!
I can say without a doubt that this is one of the most interesting books I’ve read in a long time! The author has a way with words that completely pulls you into the story. I highly recommend it to anyone searching for their next great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks for the ARC copy, Leslie!! I loved "The Lore Wielder"! The book has fantastic world building, great characters, magical twists and turns, and charming atmosphere!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Lore Wielder was a delight to read! The author captured my interest from page one. It’s mystical, charming and a fascinating book. It’s a must-read for young and old alike! -Julie Nunley
April 19, 2026
Oh my goodness, what a beautiful read! I planned on doing a chapter every other day, but then I just had to finish it. Montaño has such a way with words. So beautiful 🥰🥰🥰
May 15, 2026
Beautiful story full of hope!
The Lore Wielder was a wonderful adventure full of whimsical lore, emotional trials, and heartwarming moments. I felt so connected to Opal's journey through darkness into light! There's magical creatures, mysterious worlds, coming-of-age moments, and quests. What a sweet story! Can't wait to see what happens next!
The Lore Wielder was a wonderful adventure full of whimsical lore, emotional trials, and heartwarming moments. I felt so connected to Opal's journey through darkness into light! There's magical creatures, mysterious worlds, coming-of-age moments, and quests. What a sweet story! Can't wait to see what happens next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
10/10 recommend joining Opal on her journey! This book brings you into another world- a world of adventure, sadness, excitement, and everything in between. With great character development and wisdom woven in, this book is a must read!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews