What do you think?
Rate this book
Lantern: The Complete Collection
The story of every lantern is unique, just like yours and mine.
This collection includes all three novellas, Lantern, Beacon, and Torch.
Tori discovers a lantern that shines for her and nobody else. Is it a ghost or a living being that must be set free?
Serah unseals a globe made of Celestial Glass. Does success bring her happiness or create more trouble than it's worth?
Evelyn meets Graham after attending a party where a lantern burns out. Who lights the way to pull the other through?
Experience three different stories, all with a connection to a mysterious lamp maker.
This collection includes all three novellas, Lantern, Beacon, and Torch.
Tori discovers a lantern that shines for her and nobody else. Is it a ghost or a living being that must be set free?
Serah unseals a globe made of Celestial Glass. Does success bring her happiness or create more trouble than it's worth?
Evelyn meets Graham after attending a party where a lantern burns out. Who lights the way to pull the other through?
Experience three different stories, all with a connection to a mysterious lamp maker.
245 pages, Paperback
Published September 12, 2017
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 15, 2017
Lantern
This is a short, sweet story about Halloween and love.
Tori's grandma is such a cool person! She believes in Tori and even helps her sneak out and find solutions to freeing Jared from the lantern. The insta-love was a little bit cringey though, and the plot's kind of rushed? Nonetheless, I really enjoyed reading this novella!
Beacon
We finally meet Machin in this novella! He takes in Serah as his apprentice two weeks after her interview (the reason for this wasn't mentioned though). I was kind of confused when reading this, because Machin is supposed to give his apprentices better lives in our world, right? But his lantern takes Serah to a place where she feels miserable, and I have no idea why he does that.
I like Machin, because he's awesome - he invents stuff and the magical lanterns are just... wow. Also Gelsey is so sweet! Sadly, I didn't really connect with Serah. I liked her, but I couldn't relate to her.
Torch
Jared, Jared, Jared! I was rooting for him all the way. He's a tough little cookie! His father dies when he is young, and he starts living on his own. He totally deserves to become Machin's apprentice. I'm so glad for him when he goes to the mortal world with Evelyn and gets a happy ending.
Buuuut... again, the insta-love was really cringey.
Overall rating
★★★.5
Everything was good, except for the insta-love. Would recommend this to fans of YA fantasy and short stories :)
This is a short, sweet story about Halloween and love.
Tori's grandma is such a cool person! She believes in Tori and even helps her sneak out and find solutions to freeing Jared from the lantern. The insta-love was a little bit cringey though, and the plot's kind of rushed? Nonetheless, I really enjoyed reading this novella!
Beacon
We finally meet Machin in this novella! He takes in Serah as his apprentice two weeks after her interview (the reason for this wasn't mentioned though). I was kind of confused when reading this, because Machin is supposed to give his apprentices better lives in our world, right? But his lantern takes Serah to a place where she feels miserable, and I have no idea why he does that.
I like Machin, because he's awesome - he invents stuff and the magical lanterns are just... wow. Also Gelsey is so sweet! Sadly, I didn't really connect with Serah. I liked her, but I couldn't relate to her.
Torch
Jared, Jared, Jared! I was rooting for him all the way. He's a tough little cookie! His father dies when he is young, and he starts living on his own. He totally deserves to become Machin's apprentice. I'm so glad for him when he goes to the mortal world with Evelyn and gets a happy ending.
Buuuut... again, the insta-love was really cringey.
Overall rating
★★★.5
Everything was good, except for the insta-love. Would recommend this to fans of YA fantasy and short stories :)
December 13, 2017
What if you found a lantern that had mysterious background and a strange flickering light that nobody else was aware of? Or what if you end up in an entirely strange world unlike your own, and you had no idea how to get home? The Lantern Collection answers those questions and so many more.
I found this to be a very fast, easy read full of mystery, hints of romance and some unique supernatural elements. I could honestly say that I had no idea what the books were going to really be about, so it was a pleasant surprise at the content. The stories were pretty short, roughly 70ish pages each making them more novellas than anything else. Each book was about a new group of characters and mysteries to solve, but with one common factor that ties them all together- the machinations of Master Machin, a man with more mysteries, powers and intentions than any other character.
My favorite story was Lantern, the first novella, because it had a creepy vibe that sucked me in as well as it helped to set the tone and the mystery of the series. I went into the book blind which helped I think, so there were no expectations and I could just sit back and be surprised by miniature Jared and the cuteness of the relationship between Tori and Kimmie. I love lanterns in general so it was really cool to see them portrayed in such a new, paranormal way. As a side note, the other stories were good, but the first just captured my interest the best.
The books are listed as teen, but I think they are appropriate for all ages due to the easy style of the writing and the clean content. I literally flew through the pages, a story a sitting. I think the stories need to be read together, like in this collection, instead of as independent books because they build on the world and help to wrap up the story- I also recommend them in this order because it flowed really well. The world the author created was interesting and I would have loved to know more about it as well as the magic that comes from there, but this was overall a well done taste and wrapped everything up nicely without too many extra questions. This was my first book by Chess but I am really interested to see what else she has created.
I received this title for reviewing purposes. Come visit me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
I found this to be a very fast, easy read full of mystery, hints of romance and some unique supernatural elements. I could honestly say that I had no idea what the books were going to really be about, so it was a pleasant surprise at the content. The stories were pretty short, roughly 70ish pages each making them more novellas than anything else. Each book was about a new group of characters and mysteries to solve, but with one common factor that ties them all together- the machinations of Master Machin, a man with more mysteries, powers and intentions than any other character.
My favorite story was Lantern, the first novella, because it had a creepy vibe that sucked me in as well as it helped to set the tone and the mystery of the series. I went into the book blind which helped I think, so there were no expectations and I could just sit back and be surprised by miniature Jared and the cuteness of the relationship between Tori and Kimmie. I love lanterns in general so it was really cool to see them portrayed in such a new, paranormal way. As a side note, the other stories were good, but the first just captured my interest the best.
The books are listed as teen, but I think they are appropriate for all ages due to the easy style of the writing and the clean content. I literally flew through the pages, a story a sitting. I think the stories need to be read together, like in this collection, instead of as independent books because they build on the world and help to wrap up the story- I also recommend them in this order because it flowed really well. The world the author created was interesting and I would have loved to know more about it as well as the magic that comes from there, but this was overall a well done taste and wrapped everything up nicely without too many extra questions. This was my first book by Chess but I am really interested to see what else she has created.
I received this title for reviewing purposes. Come visit me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
November 20, 2017
Lantern - Book One
Sweet, refreshing and safe for even younger readers! Imagine the magic of Halloween, the special bond between a grandparent and a grandchild and an amazing tale of a special lantern and its tiny occupant. LANTERN by Chess Desalls is a short, yet beautifully simple tale of caring when Tori, a sixteen-year-old girl discovers a strange light flashing deep in the woods and lets her curiosity lead her on a mission to save the young man trapped within a magical lantern.
Purely magical reading! Chess Desalls has created a brief tale that will satisfy even the most reluctant of readers! A little suspense, a lot of kindness and the magic of Machin, his special Moon Glass and Chess Desalls’ pen! When I think of Gems in reading, this one is sparkling bright!
Beacon - Book Two
Does Machin have a feel for finding the lost and lonely children of Havenbrim? There clearly is something kind within the mysterious celestial mechanic and glazier’s soul as another forlorn teen comes to his door in search of the coveted apprentice position that will provide food and shelter for the one he chooses.
Master Machin works in strange ways and author Chess Desalls has once again, brought a heart-warming tale of another life changed by the magical man. BEACON is another short, but magnetic read that brings the magic of words and the worlds they create to life. Another warm read filled with the magic of Chess Desalls’ imagination that shines like a diamond!
Torch - Book Three
TORCH by Chess Desalls is the third magical tale in the lantern series that takes us from our world to the world of Havenbrim, magic and adventure. Beautifully written, this tale of fantasy comes alive with all of the glory of fantasy and make-believe come true! Written for younger readers, each scene becomes a mental picture to enjoy, from contemporary Pennsylvania to mythical Havenbrim where two young people find friendship and a place to belong. But would that place be in Evelyn’s world or Graham’s?
Chess Desalls has given younger readers a piece of magic to read, enjoy and believe in.
I received a complimentary review copy from Czidor Lore, LLC in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
Lantern Series: Complete Collection
Publisher: Czidor Lore, LLC
Publication date: 09/12/2017
Genre: Middlegrade / YA Fantasy
Pages: 256
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Sweet, refreshing and safe for even younger readers! Imagine the magic of Halloween, the special bond between a grandparent and a grandchild and an amazing tale of a special lantern and its tiny occupant. LANTERN by Chess Desalls is a short, yet beautifully simple tale of caring when Tori, a sixteen-year-old girl discovers a strange light flashing deep in the woods and lets her curiosity lead her on a mission to save the young man trapped within a magical lantern.
Purely magical reading! Chess Desalls has created a brief tale that will satisfy even the most reluctant of readers! A little suspense, a lot of kindness and the magic of Machin, his special Moon Glass and Chess Desalls’ pen! When I think of Gems in reading, this one is sparkling bright!
Beacon - Book Two
Does Machin have a feel for finding the lost and lonely children of Havenbrim? There clearly is something kind within the mysterious celestial mechanic and glazier’s soul as another forlorn teen comes to his door in search of the coveted apprentice position that will provide food and shelter for the one he chooses.
Master Machin works in strange ways and author Chess Desalls has once again, brought a heart-warming tale of another life changed by the magical man. BEACON is another short, but magnetic read that brings the magic of words and the worlds they create to life. Another warm read filled with the magic of Chess Desalls’ imagination that shines like a diamond!
Torch - Book Three
TORCH by Chess Desalls is the third magical tale in the lantern series that takes us from our world to the world of Havenbrim, magic and adventure. Beautifully written, this tale of fantasy comes alive with all of the glory of fantasy and make-believe come true! Written for younger readers, each scene becomes a mental picture to enjoy, from contemporary Pennsylvania to mythical Havenbrim where two young people find friendship and a place to belong. But would that place be in Evelyn’s world or Graham’s?
Chess Desalls has given younger readers a piece of magic to read, enjoy and believe in.
I received a complimentary review copy from Czidor Lore, LLC in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
Lantern Series: Complete Collection
Publisher: Czidor Lore, LLC
Publication date: 09/12/2017
Genre: Middlegrade / YA Fantasy
Pages: 256
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
May 29, 2026
These are easy, fast reads, well worth the time. I had such fun reading all three of the short stories, and can easily see them being expanded to create full novels. I would love to read more of this world and the characters in it.
This story takes place in two different ‘worlds’. As we get a glimpse into our own world, when some characters get sent here for a new start and to find happiness, we learn so much about the characters and what it is that they need and could not find in their own world.
The characters themselves are well-rounded people that you will be rooting for while reading each story. This means that you will probably want to know where the characters go from where their stories end since you only get enough to make you crave more of them.
The alternate world in which Machin lives is quite different from our own, in the ‘magic’ that is possible there. This world is also not as advanced as our own, making it feel like you’ve been transported back in time. The ‘magical’ system is definitely not something I’ve come across yet, and this is what was so intriguing to me.
I would love more stories in these worlds, maybe even a full novel or two… Let’s hope for the best.
This story takes place in two different ‘worlds’. As we get a glimpse into our own world, when some characters get sent here for a new start and to find happiness, we learn so much about the characters and what it is that they need and could not find in their own world.
The characters themselves are well-rounded people that you will be rooting for while reading each story. This means that you will probably want to know where the characters go from where their stories end since you only get enough to make you crave more of them.
The alternate world in which Machin lives is quite different from our own, in the ‘magic’ that is possible there. This world is also not as advanced as our own, making it feel like you’ve been transported back in time. The ‘magical’ system is definitely not something I’ve come across yet, and this is what was so intriguing to me.
I would love more stories in these worlds, maybe even a full novel or two… Let’s hope for the best.
October 26, 2017
Lantern: The Complete Collection is a group of sweet teenage love stories made intriguing by the Halloween setting and the enigmatic lamp maker Machin. A perfect All Hallow's Eve read! Read our full review at http://wp.me/p5s62b-X2
January 1, 2019
Fun collection of short stories
A fun collection of three short stories.
It was interesting to read different perspectives of three intersecting lives as one man brought them all to find happiness.
The writing was enjoyable, and the voice of the writing for each character really got the image the author created for them.
A very good read to pass some free time.
A fun collection of three short stories.
It was interesting to read different perspectives of three intersecting lives as one man brought them all to find happiness.
The writing was enjoyable, and the voice of the writing for each character really got the image the author created for them.
A very good read to pass some free time.
May 17, 2018
Great set of books. All of the individual stories are all fantastic with amazing characters and gripping storylines that you will want to end which makes this a set not to miss. An absolute bargain of a boxset and I look forward to reading more from this author.
December 31, 2019
Lantern-
This book was very childish and quick. I felt as though I was reading a children’s book. But not a good one lol. I rated this two stars because the plot was okay not horrible. I am confused on what the next two books will be about. Especially at the end with that kiss! Come on, one they are children and two they just met!!
Beacon-
This book was okay. I hate when a series has different characters for each book. But I’ll get over it lol. The plot line was okay but it was the exact same as the first book. Except with this one she isn’t as happy as Jared was lol. She still has a miserable life lol.
Torch- dnf
This book was very childish and quick. I felt as though I was reading a children’s book. But not a good one lol. I rated this two stars because the plot was okay not horrible. I am confused on what the next two books will be about. Especially at the end with that kiss! Come on, one they are children and two they just met!!
Beacon-
This book was okay. I hate when a series has different characters for each book. But I’ll get over it lol. The plot line was okay but it was the exact same as the first book. Except with this one she isn’t as happy as Jared was lol. She still has a miserable life lol.
Torch- dnf
November 14, 2017
I received a free copy of this collection of novellas from NetGalley for an unbiased opinion.
I truly felt like Desalls could have made three solid books out of the three novellas here simply by fleshing out the characters some more and taking us just a little deeper. I truly enjoyed all three but I just kept wishing there was more. At least by the third novella I didn't feel like there were unanswered questions, but these are definitely not standalone novellas. One needs the complete collection to get the full story.
I truly felt like Desalls could have made three solid books out of the three novellas here simply by fleshing out the characters some more and taking us just a little deeper. I truly enjoyed all three but I just kept wishing there was more. At least by the third novella I didn't feel like there were unanswered questions, but these are definitely not standalone novellas. One needs the complete collection to get the full story.
March 4, 2020
Cute books, I loved all three stories! Loved how they all connected in some way. I really enjoyed that the lantern is what connects the stories.
![Profile Image for [ J o ].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1673171874i/4639825._UY200_CR4,0,200,200_.jpg)
never-read
January 13, 2020(Read the first book in the The Call to Search Everywhen series. Did not enjoy, therefore will not be reading anything else by this author.)
March 26, 2018
I loved this trilogy of stories about lanterns which burned with unusual flames. The stories were funny, puzzling and very entertaining.
November 14, 2018
The first story was the best, the second wasn't that great, and the third was caught in the middle. Cute idea for a series though :)
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews