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Illuminus: A Nation Found

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Now the winds shift once more. The seams between worlds tremble. The Monuments whisper. And the Firebane calls Joey by name. Who—or what—it is, you must read to discover.
The cadets of Lapidius, once children, now stand at the threshold of a conflict far greater than The Game ever prepared them for. Friendships will be tested. Truths long buried will rise. The Embers’ true purpose will be revealed. And Novum Albion will face a trial unlike any in its long history. Will our young heroes ever gain their youthful innocence again or has the pseudo-war taken it forever?
For the battle ahead is not merely for victory, but for identity, memory, and the soul of a nation. Which nation would be found at the end of this tale?
The story continues. The fire awakens.
And each cadet must choose who they will become when the world finally calls their name—and which path they will walk when that call arrives.

165 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2026

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Matthew Runals

3 books18 followers

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5 stars
15 (51%)
4 stars
14 (48%)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Jenni.
7,629 reviews119 followers
August 3, 2026
Illuminus picks up exactly where Insidius left off — which is to say, everyone is stressed, nothing is stable, and the universe has decided these cadets are the chosen ones whether they like it or not.

The seams between worlds are trembling.
The Monuments are whispering.
The Firebane is calling Joey by name — which is never a good sign. If something ancient and magical starts addressing you personally, you know your week is about to get significantly worse.

Joey and Maisie, once kids playing The Game, are now standing at the edge of a conflict that makes The Game look like a warm‑up exercise. Their childhood innocence? Gone. Their emotional stability? Questionable. Their responsibilities? Increasing at a rate that should be illegal.

Friendships get tested.
Truths crawl out of the shadows.
The Embers’ real purpose finally steps into the light — and of course it’s dramatic. Nothing in Novum Albion is ever simple.

The cadets are carrying the future of Lapidius again, which is hilarious because they’re still doing that “trying to be brave while internally screaming” thing. Joey especially — the Firebane calling him by name is basically the magical equivalent of being voluntold for a job you didn’t apply for.

The stakes are higher, the magic is louder, the danger is sharper, and the whole book has that “the world is burning and we’re pretending we can handle it” vibe. It’s identity, memory, destiny, and the soul of a nation all tangled together — and these kids are expected to sort it out like they’re not still traumatised from book one.

It’s atmospheric, tense, emotional, and full of that quiet courage you loved in Insidius — but now amplified, cracked open, and pushed to its limit.

A 4‑star read — gripping, magical, dramatic, and absolutely the kind of fantasy sequel where you finish a chapter and mutter, “Joey, mate, you need a nap, a therapist, and maybe a different destiny.”
158 reviews5 followers
August 21, 2026
5 out of 5 Stars

Illuminus: A Nation Found #3 by Matt Runals

This is the first book I've read by the author. Illuminus is the third book in the A Nation Found Series. You will need to read the first two books before reading this.

Joey and his friends find themselves on a journey. Now with the commander gone they have to figure out what the next steps are going to be. The quote I chose for him is this: “Commander Aldred’s mascot, Fidem. I don’t know why he gave him to me. Spes, stay out here with the bird—”
Profile Image for Anantha Rusum.
328 reviews9 followers
August 18, 2026
This book is the third installment in the Found Nation series . This book sees the young children grow into responsible cadets and how their friendships evolve over time . The choices they make shape their future . The character development is brilliant in the series and the world building is amazing. The characters find their purpose eventually and all the pieces fit together. I have not read the first two books but this one more or less can be read as a stand alone book . I enjoyed the book.
Profile Image for Alli.
224 reviews
August 14, 2026
By the time I got to Illuminus, I was completely invested in this series! I've really enjoyed watching this world and the characters grow with each book. The adventure, magic, and action continued to keep me hooked, and I loved seeing how everything started coming together.

I also still found myself reading from that parent perspective and thinking about how much my 11-year-old boys would enjoy this series. It has the kind of adventure that can pull younger readers in while still being entertaining for adults; which isn't always easy to find! This has been such a fun series to escape into, and I'm so glad I gave it a try.
Profile Image for Finn Cunningham.
593 reviews16 followers
August 15, 2026
Illiminus is book 3 of the "A Nation Found" series by Matthew Runals. Definitely read these in order, they all connect! I was super anxious to get my hands on this, I couldn't wait! I absolutely love how much we've gotten to see these characters grow. I know ive already said it but the Enders Game vibes keep bringing me back. This YA series is addicting, impossible to put down and just insanely good. I highly recommend and eagerly (impatiently) await more!!
Profile Image for Amelia Stansell.
338 reviews8 followers
August 13, 2026
This book was good. It is the third book of the series. I would recommend reading the other two books in the series. The stakes are getting high as we continue with Joey and his friends. They are in charge of Lapidius again. Can they figure out how to save everyone?
Profile Image for Angela.
10k reviews133 followers
August 4, 2026
4 Stars

Illuminus is the third book in A Nation Found series by Matt Runals. This is an engrossing YA dystopian adventure story with action, mystery, challenges, high stakes, friendship, magic, battles, intrigue, fantasy, choices, twists, and discovery.
As I said when I began this adventure back in book one, I was engrossed right from the get-go- joining Joey, Kyle, Brian, and Lucas through all the highs and lows of Lapidius- a military school which will bring challenges and experiences that none of them could have predicted. And in this book the stakes are even higher! Mr. Runals ups the ante and puts his characters, and us, through our paces.
The characters were really well-developed individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. They were easy to like and invest in. I have enjoyed watching them develop and grow over the course of the story/series.
The storyline is quite detailed and descriptive, which made it easy to ‘visualise’ the scenes, the world, and all the developments as they unfolded.
I highly recommend reading the previous two books before diving into this one – as there are a lot of important information such as character details and storyline arcs, so knowing what has happened previously will definitely enhance your appreciation of this instalment, as well as the series as a whole.
Happy Reading…
174 reviews11 followers
August 14, 2026
3.5 Stars

The conclusion of the series definitely ups the ante. Everything feels so much more pressing, and the danger more present and imminent. I think out of the series this is my favourite book, and it was interesting to see the ways in which the characters had grown and changed from when they first arrived at Lapidius. Joey especially feels as though he grows and learns a lot, and I think he and Maisie are probably my favourite characters. Maisie especially is a badass.
Having read this series, I still don’t think this is quite for me. As I said before, if I read this series when I was younger, I’m sure I would have really enjoyed it; I just didn’t really vibe with it now, unfortunately. I do think this is an interesting fantasy, as Runals clearly put a lot of time into creating his world and crafting his characters. I do think that young readers will love this.
I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a YA fantasy series with lovable characters that you watch grow and learn, monsters, and a terrible evil that threatens the world. I do recommend reading the whole series, which starts with the book Lapidius, to be able to fully understand and engage with the story.
Profile Image for Book.Athlete.
330 reviews6 followers
August 6, 2026
Having reached Illuminus: A Nation Found, the third book in Matt Runals' series, I was excited to continue the journey. By this point, I was already invested in the world and its characters, and this installment builds on everything that came before while introducing new challenges and deeper layers to the story.
I especially enjoyed seeing how the characters have grown throughout the series. Their decisions, relationships, and struggles feel meaningful, and the stakes continue to rise as the story unfolds. Matt Runals expands the world with thoughtful detail, making the setting feel both immersive and believable.
The blend of action, political intrigue, and character development kept me engaged from beginning to end. Themes of leadership, resilience, sacrifice, and hope are woven naturally into the narrative, giving the story both excitement and emotional depth.
Overall, Illuminus: A Nation Found is a strong third installment that rewards readers who have followed the series from the beginning. If you enjoy epic fantasy with rich world-building, memorable characters, and an evolving storyline, this book is well worth reading.
Profile Image for Shannen.
1,203 reviews32 followers
August 14, 2026
Okay, this series has been more incredible than I thought it would be. Even after reading the first two books and being taken aback, I am somehow surprised when I read this book and absolutely loved it. It was really exciting to see where these characters would end up next. What I loved most about this one was watching the cadets grow from kids into actual heroes, even when they’re clearly not ready for everything being thrown at them. Their friendships, choices, and the things they’ve been through really start to change them, and you can feel how much they’ve grown since the first book. There are some really emotional moments as they start realizing that they can’t go back to the innocence they had before. The world feels bigger, darker, and more complicated, but the characters still give the story so much heart. Watching them face everything together made me even more invested in where their paths will take them. If you’ve made it through the first two books, this one feels like a really rewarding continuation of everything they’ve been through. I’m so excited I found this series!
Profile Image for Lizzie Hammerstone.
101 reviews
August 22, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’ve loved following these characters throughout their journey, and seeing how far they’ve come made this final installment especially meaningful. What started with children caught up in something much bigger than themselves has grown into a story about courage, friendship, sacrifice, identity, and finding the strength to step into who you are meant to be.

I was completely pulled into the adventure. There were plenty of unexpected moments, danger, magic, and twists that kept me turning the pages, but it was the characters and their relationships that really made this story special to me.

I also really enjoyed the creativity of this world. There is something so imaginative about the magic, the creatures, and the mysteries woven throughout the series. It made the entire adventure feel unique and memorable. I truly enjoyed watching this story unfold from beginning to end. Illuminus gave these characters a chance to face everything that had been building toward this moment and discover what they were willing to fight for.
🩷😭👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
5,289 reviews73 followers
August 4, 2026
This story is by an author that is still new to me. One of the things that I enjoyed about this story is the author’s use of details that made me feel part of the story. I also enjoyed their ability to pull me into the story from the beginning. This is a fantasy story that will take you on a journey of tested friendships and truths that have been buried. A story that will take you on an adventure like no other. The characters are connectable and well developed. They made me want to know more about what would happen to them next. I enjoyed watching the growth of this story which made it entertaining to read. I found this story to be well written, fast paced and hard to put down in parts. A great story that I enjoyed reading from beginning to end. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this story.
2,098 reviews29 followers
August 7, 2026
Illumainus: A Nation Found by Matt Runals. This is the 3rd book in the A Nation Found series about teenagers going to a special academy. This picks up right where the 2nd book leaves off so I highly recommend reading these in order. Joey is hearing the Firebane which is never a good thing. Joey and Maisie who once played kids game including "the game" are now involved in something so much worse, it actually makes 'the game" look like a warm up exercise. This is something that will test their friendships, their loyalties and their lives. The Cadets are now fighting for Lapidius can survive. The kids lose their innocence, their childhood and their emotional stability. They may even qualify for PTSD. Kids playing grown up games and most of the time the kids win. Such a fun series for young and old adults a like.I have really enjoyed this series.
Profile Image for Reading With Michelle.
80 reviews3 followers
August 25, 2026
This was a cute children's book. This is the 3rd book in the series- and I did not read the 1st two, and I was able to read this 3rd one with minimal questions. This book reminds something to similar to Dungeons and Dragons with a lot of the kids fighting the other side who are not kids. I love the theme of redemption and one of the kids was adopted which is near to my heart because I adopted one of my children. Redemption is huge because Jesus is able to take any part of you and change it and make it for the good. The characters are strong, and the changing throughout the book, I can't wait to see the transformation throughout the first two books. I definitely cried at the end, so make sure you have tissues. Overall, it's a good book and I would recommend it if you like books or movies similar to Lord of the Rings, or DnD game.
64 reviews4 followers
August 15, 2026
By this point, I felt completely connected to the characters and was deeply invested in their futures. The story delivered the action, emotion, and tension I was hoping for while also giving the characters room to shine.

One of my favorite things about this book was seeing how much everyone had grown since the beginning of the series. It felt like the payoff for everything they had endured along the way. I finished the last page feeling satisfied, emotional, and honestly a little sad that the journey was over.

If you enjoy epic stories with strong characters, great world-building, and a journey that keeps getting better with each book, this series is definitely worth your time. 📖✨If I could give this series more than 5 stars, I would.
3 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 20, 2026
As a continued adventure of the Cadets from Lapidius, this fantastic third book can also stand alone. It is filled with many adventures and lessons for the cadets and for readers alike. It keeps all readers engaged and wanting to read more. Matthew also finds ways to weave in subtle Christian themes of Christ and creation through his book. It is well written and perfect for all ages. If you haven’t read his first two books, he includes a quick summary of what has happened with the cadets prior to present time to draw you in and make you want to go back and read more of the cadets previous adventures.
2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 25, 2026
Illuminus closes out the adventures of the Cadets of Lapidius. If you haven't read the first two books in the series, there's a brief recap at the beginning to get you caught up. It was interesting to see the four main characters mature and grow, including in a spiritual way. In fact, there are a host of Christian undertones throughout the novel, which made for some thought-provoking reading.

There are twists and turns throughout, but the most engrossing parts are the battle scenes, which are intense and well written. Good for YA, but also for adults who want a good fantasy story with faith-based themes.
167 reviews10 followers
August 13, 2026
Illuminus: A Nation Found is the 3rd book in this series, but the first book I have read from this author. I love reading books that remind me of a dnd game or movie, love the storyline and the characters. This book draws you in from beginning to end, leaves you turning the pages to see what happens next. I feel I need to read the first 2 books then come back and read this one again, so I get a better understanding of what is going on and more of the feel of the adventure they are all on. Friendships are tested and new truths come forward while on their journey. If you love reading books that make you feel like you are a part of them, then this one is well worth your time to read.
2,177 reviews24 followers
August 14, 2026
4 Stars
Illuminus: A Nation Found By Matt Runals


Illuminati: A Nation Found is a wonderfully written Fantasy that I truly enjoyed reading. This is a fairly new author to me but I like their style of writing and attention to detail along with fully developed, relatable yet creative characters make the story come to life. Buckle up folks and get ready for one heck of a ride where friendships are not as they seem and secrets buried deep or are they? I was on the edge of my seat turning the pages and couldn’t stop reading till the end. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Im digging this author and look forward to reading more from them.

Profile Image for Melissa Saxton.
293 reviews6 followers
August 15, 2026
This 3rd book brings our 4 main characters through trials that include courage, Mystery, buried secrets (and the shocking unearthing of them, action (in a way that even the violence is done well and not gory or too much), mythology, well done fantasy "monsters" you paint mental pictures of and challenges their friendships and their ability to adapt as they try to understand the world around them and how it ticks.
Colorful YA fantasy that is so rich and deep in details and mental picture clarity that you find yourself immersed, rooting for the characters and woefully unable to put it down at 2 am when your work alarm is set for 6.
Happy lack of sleep readers. It's worth it!
Profile Image for Katie Burgess.
389 reviews
August 15, 2026
Illuminus is such a fun and exciting continuation of the story! I loved how the characters have grown and how the stakes feel so much bigger this time around. There’s plenty of mystery, adventure, friendship, and those moments that make you want to keep turning the pages to see what happens next. The world-building is really engaging, and the themes of identity, memory, courage, and choosing who you want to become add some great depth to the story. Joey and the other cadets are easy to get invested in, and the whole Firebane mystery had me hooked. Overall, this is an entertaining, imaginative read with plenty of heart, and a great addition to the series!
1,442 reviews12 followers
August 11, 2026
Goodness. This book is like a movie playing in your head. The book picks up right where the second left off and there is no time to collect your breath. You dive headlong back into this dystopian universe racing through another adventure. Although I believe you could read this story on its own and enjoy it on its own merits, as it does develop more fully characters and plot introduced earlier in the series, the reader should pick this up as part of the series. And you won’t be sorry you did. Recommended reading.
Profile Image for Hannah.
445 reviews10 followers
August 12, 2026
Illuminus: A Nation Found by Matt Runals was such an interesting read for me. I went into this one curious about where the story would take me, and I really enjoyed getting pulled into the world Runals created. There’s something about discovering a new nation, its people, and the ideas behind it that kept me wanting to see what would happen next.
In this book it had that feeling of stepping into something unfamiliar and slowly figuring out how everything fits together. The world-building gives the book its own identity.I think readers who enjoy discovering new worlds and getting caught up in the concept behind a story will appreciate this one. Definitely a book that gives you something to think about after you finish it
218 reviews9 followers
August 14, 2026
Illuminus by Matthew Runals is the latest installment in the A Nation Found series. Runals continues developing the characters as they are pushing into more dangerous battles. As the characters evolve and mature, their friendship has an even greater emotional depth. This book contains action, mystery, mythology and demonstrates the courage these young men must have to survive the conflict. As the story deepened, I found it difficult to put this installment down.
Profile Image for Charlotte S.
416 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 20, 2026
If you thought that the first two books were amazing…then you’ll absolutely love this one!

The ending is perfect!

You fall in love with the characters ten times over and might even shed a tear or two 🥹

I would highly recommend if you’re looking for a YA dystopian fantasy! The author pours so much love and time into each of these books and it really shows in the writing ❤️
13 reviews
August 17, 2026
Illuminus: A Nation Found is an imaginative fantasy adventure filled with rich world-building and compelling characters. Matt Runals creates an exciting story that keeps the pages turning while exploring themes of courage, friendship, and discovering your purpose. A great read for anyone who enjoys epic fantasy with heart.
Profile Image for Chell Conner.
161 reviews6 followers
August 15, 2026
The finale is here and Joey is trying to figure out along with others what his purpose is in the world that’s been torn by war. He knows not what the Firebane is and why it chose him. This is the amazing finale in the trilogy for the found nation.

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 31, 2026
One of the best books I've read this year!!!! Illuminus, by Matt Runals, is the third exciting installment in the series that has carried us through the adventures of these young cadets. One could scarcely have foreseen how their world would evolve and how they would have to decide whether to rise to the occasion. I cannot wait to see what Runals has for us next.




Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Heidireadsitall.
282 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 30, 2026
Illuminis was such a fantastic continuation of this series. As the third book, it was incredible watching these characters grow from children into brave young heroes who are discovering who they are meant to become. Their journey, friendships, and choices have made this series such a heartwarming and memorable adventure.

This story brings plenty of action, twists, and moments that kept me turning the pages. While there is violence, it is handled in a thoughtful and respectful way that fits the story. The world-building continues to impress, and the creatures introduced throughout the series are so unique and fascinating. I honestly wish I could have one of them as a companion… unfortunately, they only exist in this amazing world!

I’ve truly enjoyed watching this series unfold and seeing these characters face challenges far bigger than themselves. It’s a story about courage, identity, friendship, and finding the strength to answer the call when it comes. A wonderful read that I highly recommend for readers who love adventure, fantasy, and stories filled with heart.

Thank you to the author for gifting me an arc copy. All of these thoughts are my own!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews