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Tails
Sometimes loss is the only thing that saves you.
Last summer during the dreaded hunting season, Kywah lost his tail, his magic, and his value as a silvertail. Now the hunters have returned and he's terrified. Especially when he recognizes Samsa, the very hunter that cut off his tail, and ruined his life.
But when the pack becomes trapped in the foothills with no escape, Kywah realises he’s their only hope. Without a tail, he’s worthless to the hunters and their wizard masters. If he can escape, he can find help for his pack. All he has to do is locate the Wise One and retrieve the Deep Magic.
Which would be hard enough even if he still had the magical tail sense his kind are born with. But what choice does he have? If he doesn’t take the risk, his pack will lose everything. And because Kywah knows exactly how that feels, he can’t let it happen.
Excerpt:
I woke. Heart beating too fast. Darkness smothering me. The same nightmare.
I shifted and felt the familiar throb of pain along my stub, which always ached when I first awakened. For an instant I tried to fool myself that it had only been a dream, but when I was brave enough to peek, I saw the empty space where my tail should be. Almost four seasons had passed, and I was still unaccustomed to its loss.
Last summer during the dreaded hunting season, Kywah lost his tail, his magic, and his value as a silvertail. Now the hunters have returned and he's terrified. Especially when he recognizes Samsa, the very hunter that cut off his tail, and ruined his life.
But when the pack becomes trapped in the foothills with no escape, Kywah realises he’s their only hope. Without a tail, he’s worthless to the hunters and their wizard masters. If he can escape, he can find help for his pack. All he has to do is locate the Wise One and retrieve the Deep Magic.
Which would be hard enough even if he still had the magical tail sense his kind are born with. But what choice does he have? If he doesn’t take the risk, his pack will lose everything. And because Kywah knows exactly how that feels, he can’t let it happen.
Excerpt:
I woke. Heart beating too fast. Darkness smothering me. The same nightmare.
I shifted and felt the familiar throb of pain along my stub, which always ached when I first awakened. For an instant I tried to fool myself that it had only been a dream, but when I was brave enough to peek, I saw the empty space where my tail should be. Almost four seasons had passed, and I was still unaccustomed to its loss.
140 pages, ebook
Published December 16, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 7, 2018
I picked up this book on special offer through my book club and wasn't sure what to expect. I discovered an excellent fantasy aimed at young children but suitable for anyone young at heart. The writing is of high quality and very descriptive. The author delivers a fast paced story about cats being hunted by humans for their magical tails but for me it is a story about family, friendship, loyalty and values, which is what makes it suitable for both children and adults. There is plenty of suspense and the characters are a wonderful mix of good and bad. Recommended!
March 19, 2018
While technically a children's story, this beautifully written and touching tale by award-winning author, W. J. Scott, demonstrates that a great story works for all ages. In fact, some parts of it were so suspenseful and heart-rending, I felt it could be a little scary for some young children, though no more so than some Disney movies, LOL.
The main character, Kywah, is a silvertail, a unique species with subtle, magical powers. Much of these abilities lie in their tail, which acts similar to an antenna to pick up information around them. Unfortunately, poor Kywah's tail was severed by an evil hunter named Samsa, stunting his physical progression to maturity.
To make things even worse, Tullius, the local wizard acquires the severed tail and discovers it has magical properties that will help boost his own failing magical powers. This leads to a bounty being placed on silvertails for their tails as well as their pelts, which motivates the local hunters to seek them out.
A silvertail from a neighboring pack brings ominous news that hunters are closing in. Subsequently, Kywah embarks on a treacherous mission to visit Rotarn, their species's "Wise One", to obtain the deep magic needed to protect them.
This is an outstanding, suspense-filled story with a multitude of messages addressing courage, dealing with disabilities, the bonds of friendship, and commitment to one's mission, whatever it takes. As an animal lover myself, the plight of these sweet creatures really touched me, in view of the many species bordering on extinction today due to being hunted by cold-hearted, selfish men. I recommend it highly as an outstanding example of a great story with an equally great message. Fortunately, it's the first volume of a series, allowing me to look forward to the next book.
The main character, Kywah, is a silvertail, a unique species with subtle, magical powers. Much of these abilities lie in their tail, which acts similar to an antenna to pick up information around them. Unfortunately, poor Kywah's tail was severed by an evil hunter named Samsa, stunting his physical progression to maturity.
To make things even worse, Tullius, the local wizard acquires the severed tail and discovers it has magical properties that will help boost his own failing magical powers. This leads to a bounty being placed on silvertails for their tails as well as their pelts, which motivates the local hunters to seek them out.
A silvertail from a neighboring pack brings ominous news that hunters are closing in. Subsequently, Kywah embarks on a treacherous mission to visit Rotarn, their species's "Wise One", to obtain the deep magic needed to protect them.
This is an outstanding, suspense-filled story with a multitude of messages addressing courage, dealing with disabilities, the bonds of friendship, and commitment to one's mission, whatever it takes. As an animal lover myself, the plight of these sweet creatures really touched me, in view of the many species bordering on extinction today due to being hunted by cold-hearted, selfish men. I recommend it highly as an outstanding example of a great story with an equally great message. Fortunately, it's the first volume of a series, allowing me to look forward to the next book.
June 12, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this story! I've read other books by this author, but this one was my favorite. I honestly didn't want to put it down and found myself looking for opportunities to keep reading it. The plot of this story keeps a great pace. There wasn't a dull moment throughout the entire book. The basis of the plot is that the silver tails must protect their area and their kind from humans who are hunting them for their magical tails.
The author does a wonderful job in creating dynamic characters. I immediately was able to connect to them and their plights. I love how she showed both goodness and evil in the human characters. I also loved the main character's struggles and insecurities and how he had to make tough decisions along his journey, not knowing whether he was making the right decisions. I love the lessons that are taught through this story, lessons that are relevant and much needed today.
I would definitely recommend this book to young and old alike. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series! :-)
The author does a wonderful job in creating dynamic characters. I immediately was able to connect to them and their plights. I love how she showed both goodness and evil in the human characters. I also loved the main character's struggles and insecurities and how he had to make tough decisions along his journey, not knowing whether he was making the right decisions. I love the lessons that are taught through this story, lessons that are relevant and much needed today.
I would definitely recommend this book to young and old alike. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series! :-)
May 21, 2018
“Tails” is a children’s fantasy book for the 9-12 age group, but is for adults, too. I’m already of fan of Ms. Scott, so I went into reading this with high expectations. I wasn’t disappointed! “Tails” takes us to a place where magic is hard to come by, and the wizards have lost their power. That all changes when a hunter, Samsa captures Kywah, a silvertail and cuts his tail off which has magic in it. The silvertails were thought to be extinct and this renews the interest in ‘harvesting’ them. The hunters set out to find the pack, so they can sell the tails and fur to the wizards who want to recapture their powers. Kywah, who is considered handicapped amongst his pack, leaves on a journey to find the ‘Wise One’ to prevent the killing for greed and power. He does this without the senses his tail provided. I loved the relationships Kywah made along the way, especially with the dog Buster-Boy. This is the first of the series--I can’t wait for the second book! If you love a story with magic, adventure, wizards, hunters, fairies, bravery, friendship and a journey you’ll love this book! I highly recommend “Tails” and would give it six stars if I could.
September 3, 2020
Author WJ Scott creates a fabulous middle-grade book that will appeal to anyone who enjoys fantasy. As book one in the series, Tails invites readers to learn about the inhabitants of the Sacred Platea. Akule and his pack of silvertails are fearful when they discover hunters are searching for their kind’s tails for the wizard rewards. Kywah lost his tail, and thus his magic, to Samsa, the hunter last summer. Without the tail, Kywah’s passage to adulthood is lost. Kywah volunteers to retrieve the deep magic because the hunters won't be interested in chasing him since his tail is gone.
The author weaves an action-packed adventure with magic, danger, hopes, trust, and family commitment. The characters each have distinctive personalities that will keep readers engaged, especially the young ones. The graphics scattered throughout are delightful and fun. Finding out if Kywah will succeed in retrieving the deep magic from the Wise One will keep pages turning. Rotarn, the Wise One, offers insightful words of wisdom that are profoundly spiritual.
Kywah and Rotarn’s exchanges teach a bit of patience to the young and inexperienced.
“Please hurry. Tell me how I get the magic to take back to Akule. The hunters could be heading there now.”
“Through the generations many silvertails have failed in their quest and the deep magic has claimed their lives. This is not something attempted lightly. I’m surprised your pack sent one so young.”
My phantom tail throbbed. “I will do whatever task is required to save my pack. What are we waiting for?”
Rotarn blinked like a sleepy owl. “Deep magic keeps its own schedule, not mine, not yours. It takes time to build. You won't be leaving until the magic decides you are worthy. Your lacerations will need to heal before we can begin, or the process could kill you.”
I wanted to shake him. I hadn’t escaped the hunters to only to end up sitting around.”
I enjoyed the vivid descriptions, exciting adventure, and inspiring themes contained in this book. Young readers will turn the pages to find out what happens next. Older readers will beg for more of these magnificent creatures and challenging journeys. Wendy Jayne Scott delivers an unforgettable story that will grab hold of each reader’s heart.
The author weaves an action-packed adventure with magic, danger, hopes, trust, and family commitment. The characters each have distinctive personalities that will keep readers engaged, especially the young ones. The graphics scattered throughout are delightful and fun. Finding out if Kywah will succeed in retrieving the deep magic from the Wise One will keep pages turning. Rotarn, the Wise One, offers insightful words of wisdom that are profoundly spiritual.
Kywah and Rotarn’s exchanges teach a bit of patience to the young and inexperienced.
“Please hurry. Tell me how I get the magic to take back to Akule. The hunters could be heading there now.”
“Through the generations many silvertails have failed in their quest and the deep magic has claimed their lives. This is not something attempted lightly. I’m surprised your pack sent one so young.”
My phantom tail throbbed. “I will do whatever task is required to save my pack. What are we waiting for?”
Rotarn blinked like a sleepy owl. “Deep magic keeps its own schedule, not mine, not yours. It takes time to build. You won't be leaving until the magic decides you are worthy. Your lacerations will need to heal before we can begin, or the process could kill you.”
I wanted to shake him. I hadn’t escaped the hunters to only to end up sitting around.”
I enjoyed the vivid descriptions, exciting adventure, and inspiring themes contained in this book. Young readers will turn the pages to find out what happens next. Older readers will beg for more of these magnificent creatures and challenging journeys. Wendy Jayne Scott delivers an unforgettable story that will grab hold of each reader’s heart.
July 18, 2018
starsUnlikely Friends and Heroes Save their Kin
ByMarethMBothaon 1 May 2018
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
“Tails” by W.J. Scott has so much action, adventure and a few seriously scary moments when Kywah - a young breed of forest cat with a magical silver tail - the young protagonist bravely faces all sorts of dangers in his quest to save his tribe. His most prized possession - his silver tail - is cut off by evil ones, and sold to an old, evil wizard who hopes this silver tail will restore his former powers. Kywah becomes the perfect hero to love, not only by younger readers, but older ones too who still enjoy fantasy and action stories set in an unbelievably different and magical world, where he faces cruel hunters in his quest to find The Wise One.
Big pluses for me: the story has animals as the beloved characters, the main character becomes a brave hero, risking his life for his clan, the story has for the most part a fast-moving plot - essential for a younger target market and adventure/ survival genres, the author has a wonderful engaging “voice”, excellent descriptive scenes of the forest, coupled with believable dialogue throughout; highlights the essence of finding true friendship and loyalty in his friendship with a young boy called Cody who sets him free, as well as his large dog, Buster Boy who stays by his side when he is wounded and in pain. Highly recommended read for young and old.Reviewed by Maretha Botha Authonomy Gold Medal Winner (2013) for "African Adventures of Flame and Friends - Fauna Park Tales Series" (Children's Literature).
ByMarethMBothaon 1 May 2018
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
“Tails” by W.J. Scott has so much action, adventure and a few seriously scary moments when Kywah - a young breed of forest cat with a magical silver tail - the young protagonist bravely faces all sorts of dangers in his quest to save his tribe. His most prized possession - his silver tail - is cut off by evil ones, and sold to an old, evil wizard who hopes this silver tail will restore his former powers. Kywah becomes the perfect hero to love, not only by younger readers, but older ones too who still enjoy fantasy and action stories set in an unbelievably different and magical world, where he faces cruel hunters in his quest to find The Wise One.
Big pluses for me: the story has animals as the beloved characters, the main character becomes a brave hero, risking his life for his clan, the story has for the most part a fast-moving plot - essential for a younger target market and adventure/ survival genres, the author has a wonderful engaging “voice”, excellent descriptive scenes of the forest, coupled with believable dialogue throughout; highlights the essence of finding true friendship and loyalty in his friendship with a young boy called Cody who sets him free, as well as his large dog, Buster Boy who stays by his side when he is wounded and in pain. Highly recommended read for young and old.Reviewed by Maretha Botha Authonomy Gold Medal Winner (2013) for "African Adventures of Flame and Friends - Fauna Park Tales Series" (Children's Literature).
January 31, 2018
A story that includes fairies, wizards, magic, mythical creatures and a heart-stopping adventure. When the Hunters captured young Kywah and cut off his tail, he was sure his entire life was over. After all, The tail was the pride of every silvertail. Not only was it a sensory tool, but a status symbol. But Kywah had survived the brutal attack for a reason. The hunter sold Kywah's tail to an aging and decrepit Wizard who was intent on regaining the power and magic he once had. Using the tiny bits of silver he harvested from the tail, his hope sprang high that he would once again have the magic he needed to take back his power. The Wizard offers to pay top prices for as many silver tails as the hunters can get. Kywah's clan was in danger. His father had gone on a scouting trip and not returned. The one thing that would save the silvertail clan was the "Deep Magic" that could only be attained from The Wise One. Kywah volunteered to go. My heart broke for this youngling over and over as he struggled to save his clan. When he is captured, I chewed my nails. When he met Buster Boy, the Labrador Retriever, a friendship formed that would bond the two for life. If you love a story with Gypsies, fairies, magic and plenty of adventure, you are going to love this book. These sweet animals stole my heart in their struggle for survival.
December 5, 2019
Sacred Plateau. During hunting season, Kywah (Akule Pack silvertail cat) lost his tail, his magic, & his stature.
Samsa the perpetrator, & the other hunters have returned to hunt.
Tullius (hunter) wanted to know from the men who had supplied the pelts.
Rahul (Akule Pack silvertail cat) suggested to Kywah that he continue his journey without him.
Where would his journey take him next?
Who/what would he encounter?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great black/white pictures & proper font & writing style. A fairly well written teen fantasy story book. It wasn’t always very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish, but never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great teen fantasy story movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. It wasn’t as adventurous as I was hoping so I will only rate it at 3/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Wendy Scott Books; 4 edition; BookSends; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Samsa the perpetrator, & the other hunters have returned to hunt.
Tullius (hunter) wanted to know from the men who had supplied the pelts.
Rahul (Akule Pack silvertail cat) suggested to Kywah that he continue his journey without him.
Where would his journey take him next?
Who/what would he encounter?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great black/white pictures & proper font & writing style. A fairly well written teen fantasy story book. It wasn’t always very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish, but never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great teen fantasy story movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. It wasn’t as adventurous as I was hoping so I will only rate it at 3/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Wendy Scott Books; 4 edition; BookSends; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 27, 2019
This book turned to be not what I expected. I thought it was a children’s book. So, I was poised to read a light hearted book. But this was no children’s book! This was the story of a colorful mythical animal known as the Silver Tail. A story of survival!
The wizard, Tullius needed the tails of these creatures known as Silver Tail to boost his magic that was waning. News leaked about the value of these creatures, and a hunt for them started. Kywah, one of these creatures volunteered to go to the Wise One, Rotarn, to get a protective shield that will protect their pack from the hunters. He was caught and was on the verge of being skinned when Cody, a hunter’s son, and his dog, Buster Boy, saved him.
Kywah succeeded in getting the magic from the wise one but his way back to Akule, the Silver Tail’s home, was full of danger. With determination he reached Akule, and the rest was history. Samsa, his nemesis also got what he deserved in the end. This was a beautiful story, a relaxing read! I loved it.
The wizard, Tullius needed the tails of these creatures known as Silver Tail to boost his magic that was waning. News leaked about the value of these creatures, and a hunt for them started. Kywah, one of these creatures volunteered to go to the Wise One, Rotarn, to get a protective shield that will protect their pack from the hunters. He was caught and was on the verge of being skinned when Cody, a hunter’s son, and his dog, Buster Boy, saved him.
Kywah succeeded in getting the magic from the wise one but his way back to Akule, the Silver Tail’s home, was full of danger. With determination he reached Akule, and the rest was history. Samsa, his nemesis also got what he deserved in the end. This was a beautiful story, a relaxing read! I loved it.
November 22, 2020
WJ Scott states that her book, TAILS is more directed toward middle school readers. That may be true, but as an adult, I thoroughly enjoyed her story. The tale involves a wizard, evil hunters, a gypsy, magic, Silvertails, and a boy and his dog.
Silvertail's, cat-like animals, are said to possess magic in their tails. The local Wizard promised hunters rich rewards for every Silvertail pelt received, which would strengthen his own powers. This brought out the hunters by the hundreds and the Silvertail community found themselves trapped on their mountain. Only "deep magic" could save them, which required one of their own to travel through the gauntlet of hunters and travel a great distance to secure what is needed to save them. A young adolescent takes on the task - he lost his tail to hunters earlier and feels lost and powerless without it.
This story follows the youngster on his dangerous trek. He finds help along the way but the odds are stacked against him. Will he be successful in saving the clan? Highly recommended for all ages.
Silvertail's, cat-like animals, are said to possess magic in their tails. The local Wizard promised hunters rich rewards for every Silvertail pelt received, which would strengthen his own powers. This brought out the hunters by the hundreds and the Silvertail community found themselves trapped on their mountain. Only "deep magic" could save them, which required one of their own to travel through the gauntlet of hunters and travel a great distance to secure what is needed to save them. A young adolescent takes on the task - he lost his tail to hunters earlier and feels lost and powerless without it.
This story follows the youngster on his dangerous trek. He finds help along the way but the odds are stacked against him. Will he be successful in saving the clan? Highly recommended for all ages.
February 9, 2018
This is a excellent book to read. It engages you immediately and you’re turning the pages faster and faster to see what happens next.
It is well written and the characters are endearing.
It is an exciting tale and one both young and old alike can relate to. With the hatred in our society today it would be well for all to read this book and reflect just where their values are and what they can do to change how they behave.
It’s the mark of a great author to get the readers to experience the story and to feel they are there themselves experiencing the events as they unfold.
Kudos to WJ Scott on an excellent book. Job well done. Thank you.
It is well written and the characters are endearing.
It is an exciting tale and one both young and old alike can relate to. With the hatred in our society today it would be well for all to read this book and reflect just where their values are and what they can do to change how they behave.
It’s the mark of a great author to get the readers to experience the story and to feel they are there themselves experiencing the events as they unfold.
Kudos to WJ Scott on an excellent book. Job well done. Thank you.
April 30, 2018
4.5 stars for a fast-paced, imaginative fantasy! Although the cover and interior illustrations make it seem a children's book, this story will appeal to fantasy readers age 10-100. I loved the Silvertails, especially the main character, Kywah. Their culture had a wonderful Native American feel to it. The details are realistic and sometimes very gritty, so I wouldn't recommend this for a younger child. The pace is almost flawless. A couple of flashbacks slow it down a bit, but it's fascinating information so won't take the reader out of the story. Although there is an ending, several loose threads will compel the reader to continue with the series.
August 11, 2024
This is such a good book I am honestly shocked that it doesn't have more reviews. It's a great book for all ages. And it's a great fantasy book. This book is about Silvertails, creatures with magnificent silver tails that can use their tails for magic and sensing. Then the hunters come and they start killing them for their tails so they can sell them to wizards who think that the silver fur can help bring magic back and it's up to the main character to help bring the deep magic back so they can defeat the humans that threaten them. The ending of this book suggests that there should be a sequel and I just hope that there is and that we learn more about this world and the creatures in it because man I loved this one and I am really far from target audience.
March 26, 2018
An endearing story of a young cat, Kywah, who loses his tale--and also his standing in his community. Without a tail, he can never become an adult. When the chance comes to prove himself worthy and save his family and friends, he takes it. His journey to find the deep magic teaches him a lot about himself and his worth. With wizards, fairies, bad guys, and a bunch of cats, this story is sure to please children--whether they are old enough to read it themselves, or have an adult read it to them.
April 1, 2018
Kywah is a silvertail, a cat like creature with a tail that contains magic. Magic is going extinct and a man called Tullius believes he can use the tails to resurrect it. A story full of adventure which kept me turning the page. I think it will do well with pre-teens and advanced readers. I would recommend it.
April 2, 2018
I really liked this story, it didn't feel like a children's book, it was fun and full of adventure. I loved Kywah. He was a great character. I would definitely recommend this to magic and adventure fans.
December 12, 2018
Friendship and courage and a touch of magic
Engaging and refreshingly original, this story takes the reader on a perilous journey with talking animals, wizards, magic, and gypsies. It's a middle grade book, and a fine one. Highly recommended.
Engaging and refreshingly original, this story takes the reader on a perilous journey with talking animals, wizards, magic, and gypsies. It's a middle grade book, and a fine one. Highly recommended.
January 2, 2018
Another brilliant book by WJ Scott. Magical tale of cats with special powers and how they have to fight to keep their way of life without the interference of humanity.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews