The Wars Between

by Lee J. Mavin, Karolina Piotrowska (Illustrator)

196 pages, Hardcover

Published May 29, 2026

About the author

After six years in Shanghai, I am finally back in Sydney (brand new home). Here I will teach and focus on my writing! I will be starting my Phd in Arts at the University of Sydney in March 2015!
I have already polished off a children's novel, a collection of poetry and am about to publish a series of stories titled "The Students Sold Us Secrets Volume One" with ASJ Publishers. http://www.asjpublishing.com/
I'm also kept on my toes by my feisty wife and three year old daughter both of whom are Chinese. They like to let me know how bad my Chinese is on a daily basis.Oh yeah, I used to be an MC, I mean I was potentially the next Aussie Eminem,(just kidding) but there is an EP by yours trully somewhere out there in the world wide web....
Author interview here: http://thecultofme.blogspot.com/2013/...

Reviews

[A mom]

The Wars Between is a beautifully written novel that combines emotional depth with captivating storytelling. Lee J. Mavin does an excellent job of creating believable characters whose journeys feel genuine and meaningful. Every chapter pulled me further into the story, and I appreciated how the author explored complex relationships and personal growth without losing momentum. It's a well-crafted book that offers both entertainment and substance. I thoroughly enjoyed every page and would gladly recommend it to other readers.

[Mandypeter Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wars Between* is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that goes beyond surface-level conflict. What I enjoyed most was how the story explored the emotional and psychological battles the characters faced, making them feel authentic and relatable.
Lee J. Mavin YOU created a narrative that balances action, character development, and meaningful themes. The writing kept me invested throughout, and the story encouraged me to reflect on the complexities of human relationships, resilience, and the choices we make.
Overall, this was a rewarding read that stayed with me after I finished it. I would happily recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven fiction with emotional depth and thought-provoking themes.

[Christopher Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author profile is engaging, personable, and refreshingly authentic. Rather than presenting a formal list of accomplishments, it introduces the writer through personal experiences, humor, and professional milestones, making the author feel approachable and relatable.

The biography effectively highlights significant achievements, including returning to Sydney after six years in Shanghai, beginning a PhD in Arts at the University of Sydney, completing multiple literary works, and preparing to publish *The Students Sold Us Secrets: Volume One*. These details establish credibility while demonstrating a strong commitment to writing and academic research.

The lighthearted references to family life and the author's playful comments about speaking Chinese add warmth and personality, helping readers connect with the person behind the books. The mention of a previous career as an MC also provides an interesting glimpse into a creative background that likely influences the author's storytelling style.

Overall, this is an informative and entertaining author biography that successfully combines professional accomplishments with personal charm. It leaves readers with the impression of a dedicated, versatile, and approachable writer whose experiences across cultures enrich his work.

[Susan Donovan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wars Between
It is a thoughtful and engaging read that kept me interested from beginning to end. The story blends action, emotion, and meaningful character development in a way that makes it easy to become invested in what happens next.
What I enjoyed most was how the book explored not only external conflicts but also the personal struggles and choices the characters faced. It added depth to the story and made the journey feel more authentic. The pacing was steady, with enough twists to keep me turning the pages without feeling rushed.
Overall, I found *The Wars Between* to be an enjoyable and memorable read. If you like stories with strong characters, compelling conflict, and themes that make you think, this book is well worth picking up. I would happily read more from this author.

[Steven Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I really enjoyed learning about this author. His journey from living in Shanghai for six years to returning to Sydney to pursue a PhD and focus on writing is inspiring. What stood out most was his sense of humor and honesty, especially when talking about his family and their daily reminders about his Chinese language skills. It made him feel genuine and relatable rather than just listing achievements.

Knowing that he has written children's fiction, poetry, and short stories shows his versatility as a writer. His multicultural experiences and creative background as an MC make me even more interested in reading his books. After reading this biography, I feel like I'm getting to know the person behind the stories, and I'm looking forward to exploring his work.

[amazon customer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lee J. Mavin has crafted a compelling and emotionally rich story that kept me invested from beginning to end. The characters feel authentic, their struggles are relatable, and the themes of conflict, resilience, and hope are explored with depth and sensitivity. The pacing is excellent, balancing intense moments with quieter scenes that allow the characters to truly shine. This is one of those books that lingers in your mind long after you've finished the final chapter. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking fiction with heart.

[Alice Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wars Between by Lee J. Mavin is a compelling story that kept me engaged from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed, the pacing is excellent, and the emotional depth adds real weight to the narrative. I appreciated how the author explored themes of conflict, resilience, and the choices we make when faced with difficult circumstances. The writing is immersive, making it easy to connect with both the story and its characters. If you enjoy thought-provoking fiction with heart and tension, this book is definitely worth reading. Highly recommended!

[Jennifer Hartmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stood out to me most was how different this book feels from traditional fantasy novels. The opening chapters introduce two nations locked in a centuries-long conflict, but instead of focusing solely on battles, the author explores the people affected by the war. Outis is such an unusual protagonist, and his love for poetry adds a unique layer to the story. The writing is thoughtful and engaging, and I found myself highlighting several passages.

[melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely obsessed with The Wars Between! This story is such an incredible, thought-provoking journey that kept me completely hooked from the very first page to the last. The world-building is breathtaking, and I fell in love with how beautifully the author explored such deep themes like resilience and hope in the face of conflict. It is truly a powerful, heartwarming read that I know is going to stay with me for a long time I can't recommend it enough!

[Donald Pierson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What impressed me most was how the author shows both sides of the conflict. By the time I reached the chapters with President Penelope Chinwa and Gwenia Xiachung, I realized this wasn't a simple good-versus-evil story. Both nations are trapped by centuries of fear. That gives the book a surprising amount of emotional weight.

[Charlotte Evans · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Wars Between combines thoughtful themes, strong world-building, and memorable characters into a truly enjoyable reading experience. The opening chapters pulled me in immediately, and I'm excited to see how the story unfolds. If you enjoy fantasy with heart, intelligence, and originality, this book is well worth reading.

[Leejmavin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outis Everett thought he was complete failure to his family when he failed the warrior exam and felt shame walking the Asalandian streets. He was quite an interesting character as he is shy and not confident and is a poet. I loved how he had such an impact on the plot and quest of the Asalandians as they sailed across the ocean to their traditional enemies the Kastanarians!

[Andrew James · Rating 5 out of 5]

The lighthearted references to family life and the author's playful comments about speaking Chinese add warmth and personality, helping readers connect with the person behind the books. The mention of a previous career as an MC also provides an interesting glimpse into a creative background that likely influences the author's storytelling style.

[Matthew Collins · Rating 3 out of 5]

The imagery, characters, and themes have stayed with me long after finishing the opening chapters. The author's writing style is accessible while still feeling poetic and thoughtful. This is the kind of fantasy that appeals to both casual readers and those looking for deeper meaning.

[Michael Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I expected elaborate battle scenes, but instead I found a thoughtful story about how ordinary people inherit the fears of previous generations. The chapters comparing the anxieties of Asalandians and Kastanarians were especially effective.

[James Maddison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first ten chapters in one sitting. The prose is clean, readable, and often unexpectedly lyrical. You can tell the author genuinely loves poetry, and that passion comes through on every page.

[Lily Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

A powerful fantasy tale about hope, change, and the courage to think differently. Absolutely loved it.A powerful fantasy tale about hope, change, and the courage to think differently. Absolutely loved it.

[Godfrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wars Between is a captivating and well-written story that kept me engaged from start to finish. Lee J. Mavin creates memorable characters and delivers a powerful message through an exciting and emotional journey. Highly recommended!

[Oliver Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

The character development is excellent. Watching Outis grow from an overlooked dreamer into a catalyst for change was inspiring.

[Thomas Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing style is engaging and vivid. The world felt alive from the very first chapter.

[Sophia Mitchell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book surprised me in all the right ways. Thoughtful, entertaining, and emotionally satisfying.