Five Go into the Dark Worlds

Skilled in Magic #1

by Gemma Kirkman

Each child has a hidden gift and together they will become skilled in magic, a circle of sorcerers. But first they must harness their separate powers and uncover the mystery of their birthright. The eccentric Professor holds secrets too. Through him, they learn the tragic truth of their parents' death and inherit a magic quest. Embarking on a reckless rescue mission to three dark worlds controlled by the evil sorcerer, Lord Mediarn, the children are tested by danger and heartbreak. What is the greater magical power that they must claim? And why are five more powerful than four? Only by heroic measures may they hope to defeat the dark wizard and release the worlds he has held captive for so long.

190 pages, ebook

Published June 19, 2018

About the author

Gemma Kirkman is the author of the fantasy saga 'Skilled in Magic' with five books published.

Her first complete series is the Five junior fantasy books, including her latest release ‘Five on the Ultimate Adventure.’

She's currently writing the next series, a young adult time-travel steampunk fantasy set in the same universe. She draws inspiration from adventuring abroad and her home in Australia.

Gemma holds a Diploma in Professional Writing for Children and is a graduate of the Australian Writers Centre. She's been a resident writer at Chateau d'Orquevaux in France.

Reviews

[Meagan Poetschlag · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skilled in Magic was a very fun and exciting story. Julian and his 3 siblings have special magic powers that they have kept secret from others all their lives. At the beginning, this story gave me a 'Series of Unfortunate Events' vibe since they start off on a train ride to meet their new caretaker, the Professor, after their parents and grandmother die. I personally was not a big fan of the Unfortunate Events series writing style, but i just loved Skilled in Magic. The pacing of the action is superb and had me hooked as the children encountered new creatures and magical items along their journey through the worlds. My favorite creepy creature they encountered was definitely the Bicorn. I do not want to give away any spoilers, so I wont say any more. Great job Gemma. This book was a wonderful read and I can't wait for the next one in the series.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh what a fabulous book, the characters were fantastic and believeable, the plot was fast paced and exciting. Everything a reader would want. I liked how each child had their own magical powers and all different. This is the first in a series and I can’t wait to experience my next adventure with the children, this book has a great lesson about believing in ourselves.

[Caroline Noe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun children's book with a modern twist on an old fashioned style of tale, like a cross between The Railway Children, Harry Potter and The Chronicles of Narnia, all with a healthy dose of moral fable.

[Amy McInerney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! Loved it and couldn't put the book down, Looking forward to the next one!

[Nikki Savvides · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first in the Skilled in Magic series is a wonderfully creative, captivating story that immediately engaged me and kept my rapt attention until I finished it. Four siblings, each with unique magical skills, undertake a quest through several mysterious worlds to defeat the evil sorcerer Mediarn, helped along the way by their enigmatic caretaker - The Professor - and numerous fascinating characters, though some hinder more than help, especially the terrifying Bicorns.

The children are totally loveable, and I found myself particularly identifying with Lee, who is the perfect, bolshy female role model. She also has visions and can experience the thoughts and emotions of others. I was also very envious of Maggie, who can communicate with animals!

Gemma Kirkman's writing is evocative and her highly original tale rivals some of my favourite fantasy and magic realism novels, from Zizou Corder's Lion Boy series, to Ruth Manley's The Plum Rain Scroll and the works of Margaret Mahy and Emily Rodda (check them out for more great reading!). Fans of Harry Potter and A Series of Unfortunate Events will also love this book; just like those great fantasy stories, Skilled in Magic is also perfect for both children and adults. I'm so glad there is a second book and others yet to come!

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed reading this book, knowing that it was aimed at children. However I do like fantasy books and especially those involving special skills so found that I couldn't stop reading once I started. I liked the fact that the children were aware that they shouldn't use their special skills needlessly even though it was tempting at times for them to do so. I liked the way that the story flowed with simple sentences and it was interesting to find out how the "Dark Worlds" differed from one another and how each child became aware of what they could do with their "gift". I am really looking forward to the next book(s) in the series.

[Jane Campbell]

My grandchildren and I raced through the book as it was always fascinating and thrilling. The lessons the children learnt were not presented in a ponderous fashion. A child could relate to one of the Delliks whether they were naughty, responsible, caring and young, or thoughtful. Along the lines of Enid Blyton, there are worlds to explore, and astonishing magic, animals and food. What a wonderful way to start a discussion on resiliance, trying hard and believing in ourselves.

[Jennifer K · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the sibling bond in this book, although the tragic backstory felt very "A Series of Unfortunate Events"-esque with the being passed from loving parents to an absent/abusive relative. There are a lot of fantastical elements that made this book interesting, namely the children's powers. I do feel like a lot happened very quickly in this book, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing since there are several more books. We got some answers but a lot is left for the rest of the series.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

They are siblings and each of them have special powers, all have different powers. They are about to learn tings are different than they knew it was to be. They are about to find out a man holding someone captive. They will go and try to save them so see how they get on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I loved their tale

[Kate Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really captures you from the very beginning, hard to put it down once you get started. I'm picky with my books and if it doesn't grab me from the beginning I'll never finish it. This book, however, I couldn't put down! Read it in a day. Can't wait for the next in the series.

[Peir Popiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skilled in Magic is a wonderful adventure through the eyes of 5 children with very usual abilities. As a big fan of Harry Potter and Narnia, this book is right up my alley and I couldn't put it down until I finished the whole book one Sunday afternoon. Highly recommend!

[Monika Singla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review 154

🔷 BOOK: Skilled in Magic: Five Go into the Dark Worlds
🔷 AUTHOR: Gemma Kirkman

Review:
Skilled in Magic: Five Go Into the Dark Worlds is the first book in Skilled in Magic Series written by the author Gemma Kirkman. It is the story of Delliks children Julian, Edward, Lee and Maggie. These siblings has a gift of special powers. Grab a copy of this book and read the story yourself to go on adventures with the Delliks children.

Language of the book is easy. Story is well written and intense. Once I started it, I wasn't able to put it down until I finished it. Cover page of the book is eye catchy and title is apt. I am much excited to read the second book in the series now.

Rating: 4.5/5

[Marina Reis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it but the second part of the book was a little too fast paced for me.
But I guess the pace is alright for children (since it's a childrens book).

[Dino Gadzun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!! From the first page you are invited to the magical world of “Skilled in magic”. Recommend for kids and adults. No judging. :)

[Hassan Hiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is very special and wonderful story to read and share it with others . I recommend the book to everyone who wants to explore Magic skills :)

[Gail Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read for all ages. Even my 80 year old mother loved it along with my 12 year old son. We’re all looking forward to the next one.

[Gai · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read! I couldn't put it down and have already read it twice because I felt as though I had missed some of the clever nuances throughout the tale. It takes the reader on a wonderful adventure with learnings along the way. I love the way the characters are developing and can't wait for the next book!