Varlandria

by Jill Hovis

Two weeks before her 14th birthday, Fenn Calder’s biggest problem is making sense of eighth grade. But when she and her little sister, Nixie, come home from school to find their parents missing, her problems grow a lot bigger.

A secret portal leads the girls and their friend, Christopher, to Varlandria, a seaside realm of ancient magic, strange creatures, and long-buried secrets. There, Fenn discovers that if their parents aren’t found soon, the girls will fade away forever.

Fenn must learn to control her new magical abilities while solving the mystery of her missing parents. But time is running out. To save her family, Fenn must step into a legacy she never asked for and find the courage to become her own hero.

Paperback

Published May 1, 2026

About the author

Jill Hovis is a former educator and recreation professional with over twenty-five years of experience working with elementary students and their families. She is active in her local writing community and is the founder of the Women Writers of Catawba County.

Jill is an author in Hickory, North Carolina, and when she's not writing, you can find her with her husband exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains or spending time at home with their thirteen rescue cats.

Reviews

[Ryan]

Varlandria is a magical experience and a must read for any young reader who enjoys fantasy! The novel has phenomenal storytelling and unique characters that are easy to fall in love with. I was given the chance to be an ARC reader for this book, and I am so thankful I was able to read this magnificent story before its official release! If you love the Percy Jackson or Harry Potter books, this should definitely be your next read!

[JW]

I had the chance to beta read this and it is phenomenal!!! A magical story of self discovery, intrigue, family, friendship, and the power of hope, courage, and love, Fenn and her journey will inspire you and make you want to step through a painting and discover a whole new world! Can’t wait for the next story!

[Carly]

My daughter absolutely loved this book! She is a huge reader and it is now one of her favorite books.

Her review- Varlandria a very magical and adventurous story. I think Jill could not have taken me on a better adventure through this book.

[Katie Rink]

This book hooked my attention from the first chapter, so I know it will grab kids' attention, too! Full of magic, well-written dynamic characters, and age-appropriate drama, this book would motivate even a reluctant reader to finish this amazing story. The plot was well-written, with great vocabulary and figurative language, and I love the story of courage and bravery through learning something new. This book would make a great gift, an excellent addition to an elementary and middle library, and an amazing read-aloud that would have readers on the edge of their seats. Can't wait for the next in the series!

[Cara Vanderwiel]

I genuinely loved this book. It’s written for young teens, but adults will love reading it as much as I did. The story is imaginative and exciting, full of great characters and surprises. The protagonist is Fenn, a young girl, whose only problem seems to be passing math class. When her parents disappear, the adventure begins, but Fenn and her little sister aren’t prepared for the family’s secret legacy. I won’t give anything away, but you will love this fantastical journey no matter how old you are. I want to see the movie (hint-hint) !

[Brittany T]

Loved, loved, loved this book! I am so greatful that I was able to arc read this book before its release. It was phenomenal book! If you have younger kids that love fantasy then this is the book for them to read. I has amazing characters and a great story line for a young adult book. A great Ya Fantasy read! Definately would recommend it!

[Spider.webkinz]

While this book is cute it’s hard to enjoy as fully when you’re an older tween/teen. I would suggest this as a good fit for any kid 8-11. Sweet premise and nice characters. Overall I think I just wasn’t the right audience for this book.