"Evil Lurks in Black Hallow Forest," Eevie's grandfather whispered. Eevie shuddered, her grandfather was right. Join Eevie and her best friend Tommy as they race for their lives through an underground maze filled with deadly traps and mind-bending puzzles. Packed with amazing twists, laugh-out-loud humor and unforgettable characters, you'll find yourself cheering for Eevie and Tommy every step of the way. The Deadly Cavern is a magical journey you won't soon forget.
I very much enjoy reading childrens books that aim to get children and young adults interested in reading. This is one of the most important times in terms of influencing a young person to love reading well beyond their teenage years. The books a parent chooses to read to or read with their child is crucial in keeping their attention and interest in reading. It's also worth trying lots of different genres of children's books to illustrate the fact that there are books out there for everyone no matter what they like to read.
Grace Lockhaven has written an excellent childrens novel here. This is the first book in the Quest Chasers series so if they enjoy this one then look out for the next one in the not so distant future. The book starts with Tommy and Eevie trying to help their friend Drew to regain his social life after a tree possessed by a demon tried to kill him. They also try to help him with the social stigma attached to the happenings and the loss of a date who was to accompany him to the middle school homecoming dance. Eevie and Tommy of course try to help their friend by proving that there actually is a tree with a seriously bad attitude and an appetite for children. They didn't expect that the ground would literally disappear beneath them and they would fall into a terrifying underground labyrinth filled with mind-numbing puzzles deadly traps. What is even worse is that the path they believe will lead them to safety, is actually bringing them even closer to death! Will they ever escape this horrifying place or will they be stuck there forever?
Fantasy Adventure Quest? Enthusiastic? Yes! Magic Puzzles and Challenges? That's a triple yes! - There is much more to this book than just the story (even though it's a great storyline). The puzzles and challenges push a child/reader to think as well as just read. This makes it quite a unique book.
The length is pretty much perfect for someone young - 162 pages. At about half the amount of pages in a typical adult novel it's not overly long or too short for the desired audience. It is a book I wouldn't hesitate to read to/with a child.
A quick note of caution - parents of younger children may wish to read it themselves before allowing their child to do so as it does include some writing that some may find scary.
I received a copy of this book through Hidden Gems ARC Program in exchange for an honest and impartial review.
Quest Chasers is a charming children’s book written about a girl named Eevie and a boy named Tommy. There is a very pleasing bond of friendship between these two, and as they enter the world of which they have never known before, they are trapped. Every quest is a riddle, and every riddle has an answer to opening a way for their freedom.
The setting and story take them to a fantasy world named Labyrinth. It is similar to the kind of worlds you enter when you read Narnia. I particularly enjoyed the fact that the children had to think to get out of sticky situations. The tale focuses on magic, imagination, challenges and problem solving and that, in my opinion, makes a perfect recipe for a children’s book.
As the children become closer to the end, they realize that the path they may have taken was not entirely the correct one. This magical fantasy book surprises you with a very sweet ending and grabs you into wanting to know more.
The literary standard was perfect for children. I found it very easy to understand, and the paragraphs possessed a relatively gentle flow of connectivity. There were just enough backstory and world building to invite a child’s mind into this fantasy and I believe that this was executed superbly. The authors seem to have good knowledge of what children like to read and to imagine in a story.
I highly recommend this book for parents and their children and look forward to reading more from these authors.
Quest Chasers- The Deadly Cavern by Grace and Thomas Lockhaven
Tommy and Evie had only set out to investigate what they thought was an interesting tree following their classmate’s report that it was alive. Telling their parents that they were going to a movie, they thought they’d be back from their little adventure long before their designated time ran out. But, what happened when they finally confronted the tree was more than anything they could have bargained for.
I apologise for the rather bland summary. But, I’m so afraid to reveal anything that would make the surprise that this book is any lesser.
I remember reading Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets when I was nine and telling my dad not to gift me such books anymore, because it was scary. Then, by the time I turned 11, I had finished all the four books in the series and was waiting on tenterhooks for the fifth. Quest Chasers reminded me of that experience. If I’d been nine now, I would have definitely been scared. Because what Tommy and Evie go through in the name of adventure took so many scary twists and turns that, by the end of it, I was ready to breakdown with Evie when they were finally reached back home.
The characters now, were easily lovable. Though Tommy has a tendency to quip a little too much and Evie’s spirit bucks up rather too quickly, I was rooting for the characters from the get-go. Their friendship is beautiful to behold and the decisions they make may seem simplistic or way too quick for us readers, but, in that atmosphere and situation, it’s nothing short of admirable. And well, it’s not like they could do anything else.
And therein lies the reason that I fell in love with the authors. The Lockhavens have created a world wherein overcoming one hurdle leads them into a greater one. For seasoned fantasy readers, the concept is a relatable one and the pacing, which is so crucial in such books, is on point here. The puzzles are interesting and perfect for the age-group of readers that’s their target audience. The book will introduce them to lateral thinking and presence of mind. The dialogue is easy to read and pulls you into the story. Their quips and the banter is, thankfully, funny and there were a few times that I actually laughed out loud.
BOTTOMLINE: Do you remember those dreams where you feel like you’re stuck? No matter how much ever you try to open your eyes, they refuse to do so? Well, that’s how this story is. So, enter into Tommy and Evie’s nightmare along with your kids. Trust me, it has enough chills and thrills to keep you engrossed for days and then, to keep you waiting for more.
I’m a massive fan of young adult fantasy, I just love how simple, fun and enjoyable it can be and The Deadly Cavern was just that.
Tommy and Eevie have heard stories about a tree.. a tree that’s been around for years and holds a dark secret. When a fellow student claims to have been attacked by that very tree they set out to investigate.
Thery're soon sucked into a labyrinth with challenges at every turn which they must complete in order to escape.
What I really enjoyed about the tale was the challenges themselves which had me thinking the possible solution in my head..it made it really fun an engaging.
I thought the writing was great and the plot sound, perfect for a young adult fantasy book. It wasn’t overly complex with its words but it never felt dumbed down either and the story flows easily allowing the younger readers to easily keep track of the events that happen. I’d say age range it’s aimed at early teens but I very much enjoyed it and will continue to see how the series plays out.
The ending really surprised me, perfect and sets up future books..It definitely left me with the wow feeling.
If you enjoy the genre you’ll love it! I’d also say if you’re looking for a fun easy read then why not give it a go. I’d certainly say this is a good one for parents to read with their children.
As kids we always dream of going on an adventure and its books like this that keep those dreams alive and the little boy in me excited.
What a cute kids book! I enjoyed it very much. A new world, some adventure and a whole lot of fun. What an exciting and fun read for me. It was a great children's fantasy book. * I received this book from the author---this is my honest review*
This book starts with a simple fantastic story well told by a student in front of his class.
Drew Morris has his audience is spellbound as he describes his life and death struggle, until, the class laugh and dismiss the whole story as fantasy. Only two of members of the class believe the tale could be based in fact.
Eevie and Tommy are inseparable best friends who tell Drew they believe his story. They decide to get proof that the knarled and creepy tree in the local park could really be killing people. They don't plan on being trapped in a cavern facing menacing obstacles. The dangers they meet are simply horrendous but their devotion to each other overcomes the odds.
The ending is perfect in that their escape should mean an end to the ordeal, but, is it? Clearly, this is the first book in series. This is another surprising book that I wouldn't normally read but for The Book Review Directory review requests.
This is a well-written polished book. I enjoyed it very much.
What a fantastic story! I can't believe I found such a compelling storyline... the two leading characters are young, adventurous and who wouldn't want to be in their place...going through everything they experienced - I want to be in their place!! It's been a long time since I felt that - Thank you ! For writing such an amazing story, it's been delightful and satisfying in so many ways. I hope there are books like that or even close to Quest chasers in the future! Can't wait for the next one!
La Caverna de la Muerte tenía todo para ser una novela juvenil divertida: una idea intrigante (un laberinto demoníaco con acertijos mortales), personajes jóvenes y escenarios de fantasía oscura. Lamentablemente, la redacción es insoportablemente mala. Los diálogos son roboticos y repetitivos ("y X dijo, y Y respondió"), la narrativa carece de fluidez y las descripciones son planas. No se sabe si es un problema de la traducción al español o de la escritura original, pero el resultado es una lectura áspera, predecible y con cero inmersión. Los acertijos podrían ser interesantes, pero es imposible disfrutarlos cuando la prosa parece escrita por un algoritmo.
This is a great magic fantasy book, and are the type I'm always looking for. It far exceeded my expectations and I wish I could find more books like this. From the story line, to the comical characters, you'll want to run through reading the whole story and see what's gonna happen next.
It gives you the Harry Potter vibe, but in a whole different scenery. I can't wait for the second book to come out!!
It might be a children's book but although the language is simple it's based on the good old fashioned fantasy sagas such as the ones written by David Eddings. Clean language, strong characters that are heroes even though they might be scared stiff and an adventure that will have you racing onto the next book. Children will love for the characters (and with a boy and girl hero there's something for everyone) and the adventure whilst adults will love the return of a good old quest saga. An evil tree, two teens who want to know if their classmate's stories are true and a trip to investigate. Watch as the tree traps them, using sphinx like riddles they have to pass onto the next stage whilst fighting the evil that lurks behind each step. Can they make it out? If they do are they home safe and sound?
Great new adventure series for young adults which is mysterious, scary, & exciting, but not to a level of where it is inappropriate. Yet, it kept me interested in reading on to find out about each epic adventure the characters were experiencing even though I'm not a kid. The story of the "Quest Chasers" Eevie & Tommy, reminds me of the young adult mystery novels of old such as Nancy Drew but updated to our current times, with a mix of fantasy stories like Narnia. The puzzles are a pleasantly surprising bonus and fun. This first book in the series has turned out to be a great start for the authors and I am looking forward to immersing myself in this easy but engaging read. Great job, can't wait for the next one!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book as an adult and I know I would have simply adored reading a book like this when I was younger. It is ideal for any age but youngsters from age 9 onwards would take great delight in the story.
It was a very imaginative tale and kept me guessing right up until the end and left me wanting more. I can't wait for a sequel as I want to know what happens to the main characters next. I can't recommend this book enough as it was a very satisfying read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book”
It was scarier than I thought it would be! It starts out a little campy like Scooby Doo meets choose your own adventure of Doom and then morphs into Harry Potter meets Mrs. peregrine's school... It was a quick read that kept me engaged. I liked it better than I thought I would. It had a sort of telling scary stories around the campfire feel.
Two friends hear a couple of urban legends and decide to investigate and solve the mystery. Where they find some answers the book ends before it's solved with a great set up for the series.
I absolutely LOVED this book! I'm a big fan of Nancy Drew, Harry Potter, Artemis Fowl, and YA fantasy/adventure books in general and this book was engaging and delightful from start to finish. Eevie and Tommy are believable and relatable, and the puzzles they solve throughout the book give readers are clever and not "obvious" to figure out. The descriptions of each scenario are richly written and provide a lush mental picture of the scene. This book series will be a favorite for many young readers!
This was great for a middle grade age range! I highly enjoy these books as its a break from heavier material. The books themselves are still written well and by amazing authors, just less super dark themes that I have to think about. I can more relax and see the setting of the story than I can with YA or adult. I especially loved the author's work on this book. They did such a great job of crafting the characters and I think any kid in the middle grade age range will enjoy and get hooked by this series right away!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A touching story with dynamic characters that it’s impossible not to care about. The author has set up a world that is so beautiful it’s hard not to want to visit there. An imaginative world with dynamic characters in this first book sets the stage for a promising epic journey for all ages. I highly recommend including a glossary for the wonderful vocabulary used.
This book was a disappointment. Instead of twists, humor, and unforgettable characters all wrapped up in an delightful package, I received a predictable book with repetitive humor and bland characters. The only promise that was upheld was there was a maze with traps and puzzles, but even that is a stretch.
This would be a book I could give to tweens that love adventure/magic with a touch of romance. However, I can think of plenty of other books I would choose over it.
Warnings Language-Golly No! Violence-Yes, but nothing too overwhelming Sex-No Drugs-No
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Interesting characters in this book. This book had a really good story. There were puzzles and riddles to solve throughout this book and that kept this book interesting and entertaining to read. A great kids book and even good for adults to read too. I really enjoyed this book.
This book is fun, fast paced and exciting. Growing up I loved solving puzzles and this book is filled with them. Just the right amount of suspense. On to the rest of the series!
They have become trapped in a maze which is about to turn deadly. They need to be very careful and solve all the puzzles they are to face. Can they escape the maze? How will they escape? As if they can
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Drew tells a story of a tree that almost grabbed him in the local forest most children just laugh about the story and. like the teacher, choose not to believe it. But Tommy and Eevie believe in magical things happening and together with Drew start to investigate, especially as there is evidence that children have again and again vanished from the area. A mild horror story, but with the main characters children who overcome their fears and work together to solve problems to get out of scary situations. If your child scares easily - do not give the story to them. Overall a great story for upper elementary and older, teaching the value of working together and that it is fine to tease, but not to bully. An enjoyable book with characters who could be role models I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Quest Chasers was a cute adventure story of two kids who follow and adventure and have to work through a number of puzzles or quests to get through the adventure.
This book reminded me of The Magic Treehouse book series in a number of ways and as I loved those books and read them with my kids when they were much younger, I think this would be a good, more modern book to do some of the same things as that series.
Although, the story starts with Drew - he is the one who found the mystery and told Evie and Tommy about it, yet he is left completely out of the adventure after the beginning. I am still unsure why the author chose to leave him out. I think the trio would have made a more believable group.
Overall though, I found it cute and adventuresome. Great for the young reader to keep their interest and engage the mind.