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Songbirds of the Veil
To save her grandfather, she’ll have to survive the Amazon. To find the truth, she’ll have to cross the Veil.
In 1908, fifteen-year-old Ramona Grey lives a quiet, scamp-like existence in Key West, caring for her dying grandfather. As the legendary explorer who first discovered a miracle serum within the Amazon Rainforest, he now relies on that very medicine to live.
But now, the world's supply is gone. The tyrannical Authority has hoarded the final drops, leaving cities in darkness and the sick in despair. When the U.S. Navy and the Authority launch a covert expedition to find the hidden source—a magical portal buried deep in the labyrinth of the Amazon—they coerce Ramona’s grandfather into leading the way. Used as leverage in their deadly bargain, Ramona is thrust headfirst into a perilous journey.
To save her family, Ramona will have to survive the jungle, outmaneuver ruthless agents, and cross the Veil.
In 1908, fifteen-year-old Ramona Grey lives a quiet, scamp-like existence in Key West, caring for her dying grandfather. As the legendary explorer who first discovered a miracle serum within the Amazon Rainforest, he now relies on that very medicine to live.
But now, the world's supply is gone. The tyrannical Authority has hoarded the final drops, leaving cities in darkness and the sick in despair. When the U.S. Navy and the Authority launch a covert expedition to find the hidden source—a magical portal buried deep in the labyrinth of the Amazon—they coerce Ramona’s grandfather into leading the way. Used as leverage in their deadly bargain, Ramona is thrust headfirst into a perilous journey.
To save her family, Ramona will have to survive the jungle, outmaneuver ruthless agents, and cross the Veil.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
August 9, 2026
Colonel Gray is Ramona’s only family, and as his Parkinson’s disease continues to worsen, she is doing everything she can to keep him at home. Ramona has even dropped out of school to take care of her grandfather, who has filled the role of her education by teaching her everything he knows. I absolutely loved Ramona’s dedication to him. She has essentially given up her own life to care for her grandfather and find the medication he needs. When Colonel Gray can no longer make it up the stairs to his bedroom, Ramona even sleeps on the couch in his study so she can stay close to him. You truly couldn’t ask for a more devoted granddaughter, and that dedication made Ramona such an admirable character to me. She is even willing to risk her own life in the Amazon to get her grandfather more medication, but Colonel Gray refuses to let her go. Unfortunately for both of them, the government has other plans and essentially kidnaps Ramona and Colonel Gray, forcing him to lead an expedition to find the medication because he is the only person left who knows how to get there.
I really enjoyed getting to “sit with” Colonel Gray and Ramona as they talked about the different tribes in the Amazon and the area’s history. I’m a big fan of Josh Gates and his show Expedition Unknown, so this dive into the tribes and their history was especially fun for me. I personally haven’t been on a trek through the Amazon (thank goodness, honestly!), but the threats and challenges they faced seemed very realistic for someone who would actually be in that situation, which made the expedition feel believable to me. Add on the author's amazing descriptions and you are there with Ramona.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy about the book was that the first part felt slow and repetitive. I was hooked by the blurb, but once I started reading, I didn’t always feel that same pull to pick the book back up and keep going. Once the story got moving, though, I thought the pacing improved quite a bit, and I found myself wanting to keep reading.
I also wish there had been even a teeny tiny bit of romance. I know they were trying to survive in the Amazon, so obviously dating wasn’t exactly on the agenda, BUT the romance reader in me wanted just a sprinkle. 😂
I hope McClellan decides to write a second book so we can join Ramona as she explores the jungle more with her grandfather. No spoilers, but with the information we find out at the end, I think there is definitely potential for another great adventure, and I would absolutely join Ramona for it.
Read this if: You enjoy YA adventure stories with survival, exploration, family bonds, and a protagonist who has been forced to grow up far too soon.
I really enjoyed getting to “sit with” Colonel Gray and Ramona as they talked about the different tribes in the Amazon and the area’s history. I’m a big fan of Josh Gates and his show Expedition Unknown, so this dive into the tribes and their history was especially fun for me. I personally haven’t been on a trek through the Amazon (thank goodness, honestly!), but the threats and challenges they faced seemed very realistic for someone who would actually be in that situation, which made the expedition feel believable to me. Add on the author's amazing descriptions and you are there with Ramona.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy about the book was that the first part felt slow and repetitive. I was hooked by the blurb, but once I started reading, I didn’t always feel that same pull to pick the book back up and keep going. Once the story got moving, though, I thought the pacing improved quite a bit, and I found myself wanting to keep reading.
I also wish there had been even a teeny tiny bit of romance. I know they were trying to survive in the Amazon, so obviously dating wasn’t exactly on the agenda, BUT the romance reader in me wanted just a sprinkle. 😂
I hope McClellan decides to write a second book so we can join Ramona as she explores the jungle more with her grandfather. No spoilers, but with the information we find out at the end, I think there is definitely potential for another great adventure, and I would absolutely join Ramona for it.
Read this if: You enjoy YA adventure stories with survival, exploration, family bonds, and a protagonist who has been forced to grow up far too soon.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to Steven McClellen, Mystichawk Press, and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I found this YA book to be interesting, but not so exciting that I couldn’t put it down. The prose serves the purpose of telling the story well enough, but it doesn’t have the depth I would expect for an epic adventure.
Bug’s character was curious, tenacious, and often outspoken. She is a fantastic FMC. However, one aspect I didn’t like was that in the beginning her italicized internal monologue on every other page was often extraneous and added relatively little of value.
The other characters are believable and varied. Grandpa was a favorite (obviously), but I found even the minor players to be multidimensional.
The pace was great, especially once they got to the Amazon. The various tribulations the group encountered and the surroundings are the best part of the book.
I saw the twist at the end coming, but it was creative. It seems the author finished the story with a bit of an open end. The book was interesting, but I don’t think it has enough oomph to allow for further volumes.
I found this YA book to be interesting, but not so exciting that I couldn’t put it down. The prose serves the purpose of telling the story well enough, but it doesn’t have the depth I would expect for an epic adventure.
Bug’s character was curious, tenacious, and often outspoken. She is a fantastic FMC. However, one aspect I didn’t like was that in the beginning her italicized internal monologue on every other page was often extraneous and added relatively little of value.
The other characters are believable and varied. Grandpa was a favorite (obviously), but I found even the minor players to be multidimensional.
The pace was great, especially once they got to the Amazon. The various tribulations the group encountered and the surroundings are the best part of the book.
I saw the twist at the end coming, but it was creative. It seems the author finished the story with a bit of an open end. The book was interesting, but I don’t think it has enough oomph to allow for further volumes.
August 6, 2026
I loved the relationship Ramona had with her grandfather! She always tried her best to be there for him considering he's the only family she has left in her life.
It's very understandable she would do anything for him, so that's why she embarks on an adventure, even if a bit forced by the circumstances, and she doesn't back down, to the Amazon, to find a cure for her grandpa.
I loved the settings of the story, even the small town, Key West, where they lived had an attraction to it with its small and quiet life. Even if things weren't going to great because of the low supply of Amrita.
I loved how a bit of the real world history got entwined with their world.
I liked how Ramona adapted to the difficult way of the jungle and how quick on her feet she was with the 'lie' she told at the end in order to keep Amrita safe from the greedy people that got their hands on it the first time.
Thank you to the author Steven McClellen, Mystichawk Press and RR Book Tour for the copy!
It's very understandable she would do anything for him, so that's why she embarks on an adventure, even if a bit forced by the circumstances, and she doesn't back down, to the Amazon, to find a cure for her grandpa.
I loved the settings of the story, even the small town, Key West, where they lived had an attraction to it with its small and quiet life. Even if things weren't going to great because of the low supply of Amrita.
I loved how a bit of the real world history got entwined with their world.
I liked how Ramona adapted to the difficult way of the jungle and how quick on her feet she was with the 'lie' she told at the end in order to keep Amrita safe from the greedy people that got their hands on it the first time.
Thank you to the author Steven McClellen, Mystichawk Press and RR Book Tour for the copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I sat down and read this book in one night! From 6 pm until 5 am and it was a joy!!!
Song Birds of the Veil written by Steven McClellan, is a beautifully written YA, story.
The story follows young Ramona Grey in her quest to the Amazon, to seek out
a magical serum from deep in the Amazon Jungle which holds the magical portal . Along the journey she is guided by her ailing Grandfather, who is in desperate need of this serum, to hopefully help heal him. But will time run out and will Ramona find what she is searching for or will something find her??
Because not all things searched for are the only things found!!! If this has you intrigued...? Get a copy of this well written book , written as a YA story, but sure to delight all ages!!
Many Thanks to Author Steven McClellan and his Publishing Team for the beautiful gift copy of this ARC . I will treasure it and be sure to read it many more times!
Song Birds of the Veil written by Steven McClellan, is a beautifully written YA, story.
The story follows young Ramona Grey in her quest to the Amazon, to seek out
a magical serum from deep in the Amazon Jungle which holds the magical portal . Along the journey she is guided by her ailing Grandfather, who is in desperate need of this serum, to hopefully help heal him. But will time run out and will Ramona find what she is searching for or will something find her??
Because not all things searched for are the only things found!!! If this has you intrigued...? Get a copy of this well written book , written as a YA story, but sure to delight all ages!!
Many Thanks to Author Steven McClellan and his Publishing Team for the beautiful gift copy of this ARC . I will treasure it and be sure to read it many more times!
August 6, 2026
4.5 rounded to 5
I was pleasantly surprised by the phenomenal execution of Songbirds of the Veil by Steven McClellen. This YA historical fiction fantasy novel held my attention all the way through. Ramona’s character was strong, spunky, and overall well-rounded. Her actions and responses were written appropriately for a 15-year-old; she never seemed overpowered, and the decisions she made were believable. The love she and her grandfather shared was beautiful, with both of them willing to do whatever it takes for one another. The world-building was very descriptive, from being on ships, trekking through the Amazon, to portal crossing- I was able to picture every moment clearly. There is also a twist I did not see coming, which solidified my rating.
Thank you so much to R&R Book Tours and Steven McClellen for a gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I was pleasantly surprised by the phenomenal execution of Songbirds of the Veil by Steven McClellen. This YA historical fiction fantasy novel held my attention all the way through. Ramona’s character was strong, spunky, and overall well-rounded. Her actions and responses were written appropriately for a 15-year-old; she never seemed overpowered, and the decisions she made were believable. The love she and her grandfather shared was beautiful, with both of them willing to do whatever it takes for one another. The world-building was very descriptive, from being on ships, trekking through the Amazon, to portal crossing- I was able to picture every moment clearly. There is also a twist I did not see coming, which solidified my rating.
Thank you so much to R&R Book Tours and Steven McClellen for a gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
:"I received a complimentary advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review."
I really enjoyed this book. The description of the scenes in the Amazon make you feel like your there.
Bug takes you with her on her journey of finding herself amongst friends and enemies. All while navigating her Grandfather's illness, the excitement of the unknown and the dangers of the jungle.
The story sets a good pace, the characters bring out the best and the worst of each other. The adventure just of a young girl, the authority of an agency with a heart of greed. The old friends who's own journeynis the catalyst in Bugs adventures.
Id love to see whats in Bugs future
I really enjoyed this book. The description of the scenes in the Amazon make you feel like your there.
Bug takes you with her on her journey of finding herself amongst friends and enemies. All while navigating her Grandfather's illness, the excitement of the unknown and the dangers of the jungle.
The story sets a good pace, the characters bring out the best and the worst of each other. The adventure just of a young girl, the authority of an agency with a heart of greed. The old friends who's own journeynis the catalyst in Bugs adventures.
Id love to see whats in Bugs future
July 31, 2026
✨✨BOOK REVIEW✨✨
Songbirds of the Veil is set in the 1900s and it perfectly blends historical fiction with fantasy. We start off in the Florida keys and our two MCs set on a journey to the Amazon Rain Forrest in search of a magical serum.
I really enjoyed the descriptions in this book it was super easy to picture every place the character was and was beautifully described!
I also like how the FMC is a teenager but her grandfather treats her more like an adult and doesn’t try to hold her back. She is head strong and encouraged to be so!
If you are looking for a historical fantasy with gorgeous descriptions this will be perfect to read!
Songbirds of the Veil is set in the 1900s and it perfectly blends historical fiction with fantasy. We start off in the Florida keys and our two MCs set on a journey to the Amazon Rain Forrest in search of a magical serum.
I really enjoyed the descriptions in this book it was super easy to picture every place the character was and was beautifully described!
I also like how the FMC is a teenager but her grandfather treats her more like an adult and doesn’t try to hold her back. She is head strong and encouraged to be so!
If you are looking for a historical fantasy with gorgeous descriptions this will be perfect to read!
August 5, 2026
An adventure through the rainforest while trying to find this magical serum that is going to save someone? Yes, please! It is important to note that this is a YA book and not an adult thriller. Knowing that ahead of time, I was prepared to digest it as a YA novel! It threw me off a little bit that the FMC's name was Bug, but it grew on me throughout the book. The grandpa definitely became my favorite character pretty early on. It reminded me of my own relationship with my grandpa and I loved that! Overall, if you are looking for a YA adventure, then you should definitely give this book a chance! I did enjoy it!
September 10, 2026
I completely forgot to write a review after I finished it. This book is was amazing! I loved how sweet the grandpa was and the adventures he told. It reminded me of my grandpa. There was some questions left unanswered. I hope there is a second book so we find out some answers. Thank you to R&R book tours for a gifted e-arc!
August 7, 2026
What an interesting read I’m fascinated by everything this author put into this story I’d definitely recommend it
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 9, 2026⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Key West. The Amazon rainforest. Legendary explorers. Covert expeditions. Miracle serums. A magical portal buried deep within the Amazon. Saving your grandfather?! Sign me up!
This was such a fun surprise for me!
I requested this ARC after spotting the beautiful cover and intriguing description on NetGalley, and I’m so glad I did!
Set in 1908, the story follows 15-year-old Ramona as she journeys deep into the Amazon to save her beloved grandfather. What follows is an adventure filled with hidden secrets, danger and a mysterious world where history and fantasy intertwine. ✨
The setting was my favorite part of the book! 🌴🦜🐠It starts with beautiful descriptions of Key West before transporting readers deep into the Amazon. The lush rainforest came alive through vivid descriptions of dense jungle, winding rivers, relentless heat, incredible wildlife and Amazonian tribes. I genuinely felt transported alongside the characters and couldn’t wait to see what was around the next corner.
I also really liked Ramona. Her curiosity and determination made her such an easy character to root for throughout the story. 💗
Although fantasy isn’t my usual genre, the Veil elements were woven in just enough to keep me intrigued without overpowering the story. I was immediately pulled in by the mystery and found myself eager to keep reading!
I also loved how real history was woven throughout, with references to Theodore Roosevelt, the USS Olympia, real tribal names and historical details that grounded the story while still leaving room for wonder.
One of my favorite things about a good book is when it sends me down a research rabbit hole, and this one did exactly that. I found myself reading more about the Amazon’s history, tribes, wildlife and explorers - which is always a sign that a book has done something right for me!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. 💛
Key West. The Amazon rainforest. Legendary explorers. Covert expeditions. Miracle serums. A magical portal buried deep within the Amazon. Saving your grandfather?! Sign me up!
This was such a fun surprise for me!
I requested this ARC after spotting the beautiful cover and intriguing description on NetGalley, and I’m so glad I did!
Set in 1908, the story follows 15-year-old Ramona as she journeys deep into the Amazon to save her beloved grandfather. What follows is an adventure filled with hidden secrets, danger and a mysterious world where history and fantasy intertwine. ✨
The setting was my favorite part of the book! 🌴🦜🐠It starts with beautiful descriptions of Key West before transporting readers deep into the Amazon. The lush rainforest came alive through vivid descriptions of dense jungle, winding rivers, relentless heat, incredible wildlife and Amazonian tribes. I genuinely felt transported alongside the characters and couldn’t wait to see what was around the next corner.
I also really liked Ramona. Her curiosity and determination made her such an easy character to root for throughout the story. 💗
Although fantasy isn’t my usual genre, the Veil elements were woven in just enough to keep me intrigued without overpowering the story. I was immediately pulled in by the mystery and found myself eager to keep reading!
I also loved how real history was woven throughout, with references to Theodore Roosevelt, the USS Olympia, real tribal names and historical details that grounded the story while still leaving room for wonder.
One of my favorite things about a good book is when it sends me down a research rabbit hole, and this one did exactly that. I found myself reading more about the Amazon’s history, tribes, wildlife and explorers - which is always a sign that a book has done something right for me!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. 💛
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews