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The Emerson Chronicles #1
The Elyrian
"A witch's most powerful tool isn't magic, it's deception."
Since witches only exist in fairy tales, Ace Halder never put much thought into the matter. But when he discovers a mysterious stone on his grandfather’s ancient Earth ship, he’s forced to confront the lies he was raised to believe.
Not only are they real, they’re taking over the world one wicked deed at a time. Now only one thing can stop them. The Emerson Stone.
Ace is faced with a choice. Run and hide? Or risk everything at one last chance to save Yutara.
Since witches only exist in fairy tales, Ace Halder never put much thought into the matter. But when he discovers a mysterious stone on his grandfather’s ancient Earth ship, he’s forced to confront the lies he was raised to believe.
Not only are they real, they’re taking over the world one wicked deed at a time. Now only one thing can stop them. The Emerson Stone.
Ace is faced with a choice. Run and hide? Or risk everything at one last chance to save Yutara.
402 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 2018
491 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Paul Rowell
14 books29 followersDaniel Paul Rowell has always been a storyteller at heart, having spent his younger years either lost in the pages of a good book or reenacting entire movie scenes after a single watch—much to the amusement (and occasional concern) of his family.
Nowadays, he’s taken to his trusty keyboard to craft the epic tales he imagined all along; where the impossible becomes the everyday, and every adventure starts with a leap of faith. When he’s not dreaming up new worlds or nudging his characters toward greatness, you might catch him strumming his guitar or losing at chess. Because, as the great Durwood Fincher (AKA Mr. Doubletalk) once said, “Mistakes are just stepping stones . . . to failure.”
But beneath all the fantasy and fun, D.P. Rowell writes with a purpose: to inspire readers to find their own courage, trust in a greater plan, and embrace the adventure of life—no matter where they start. So, if you’re up for a journey filled with wonder, mystery, and maybe a few laughs along the way, you’ve come to the right place. Daniel is here to guide you through the story, one gripping chapter at a time.
Nowadays, he’s taken to his trusty keyboard to craft the epic tales he imagined all along; where the impossible becomes the everyday, and every adventure starts with a leap of faith. When he’s not dreaming up new worlds or nudging his characters toward greatness, you might catch him strumming his guitar or losing at chess. Because, as the great Durwood Fincher (AKA Mr. Doubletalk) once said, “Mistakes are just stepping stones . . . to failure.”
But beneath all the fantasy and fun, D.P. Rowell writes with a purpose: to inspire readers to find their own courage, trust in a greater plan, and embrace the adventure of life—no matter where they start. So, if you’re up for a journey filled with wonder, mystery, and maybe a few laughs along the way, you’ve come to the right place. Daniel is here to guide you through the story, one gripping chapter at a time.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 21, 2020
DNF
I'm really sad about DNF-ing this....my GR friends enjoyed it immensely, which is why I had such high expectations. Expectations that this book didn't fill.
Let's talk about what I liked first . . . . 😏
PROS ~
- The world building. 💖💖💖 It was so beautiful and wonderfully flushed out. The legends, the color, the mysterious tales, the landscapes, and amazing description. I loved it.
- The details. It was beautifully described. ^.^
- The idea of the book...?
CONS ~
- The writing was choppy and cringy. I was grimacing through basically every sentence.
- The dialogue was rough and sometimes had nothing to do with what the characters were originally discussing. Characters yelled at each other for the purpose of yelling at each other. :P
- The characters sucked. They were flat and contradicted their personalities. I didn't connect to any of them....and half of the decisions they made had no real purpose.
- The DRAMA. Honestly the "action" and "suspense" was dry and dramatic. I was grimacing the. Whole. Time. Ugh. I wasn't scared....merely unimpressed. :P
- The plot was choppy. Like I said....didn't connect well.
- And what was up with the tension between the cousins????! Honestly it seemed they were just trying to "be better" than the other for the purpose of tension. *drags hand down face*
CONTENT ~
- Overall very clean. There was "magical" elements....obviously witches are a main part of the story, but I was certain going into the book it was "Christian Fantasy". I'm pretty sure that assumption was incorrect.
- No bad language
- Violence? I mean fantasy/magic violence.... The cousins try to beat each other up.
OVERALL ~
- I'm unsatisfied with the whole thing. It was dry and cringy.
- I mean no offense to the author. His writing just needs help. :P
**FTC DISCLOSURE** I received a complementary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and are not to be taken personally. I mean no offense. :)
I'm really sad about DNF-ing this....my GR friends enjoyed it immensely, which is why I had such high expectations. Expectations that this book didn't fill.
Let's talk about what I liked first . . . . 😏
PROS ~
- The world building. 💖💖💖 It was so beautiful and wonderfully flushed out. The legends, the color, the mysterious tales, the landscapes, and amazing description. I loved it.
- The details. It was beautifully described. ^.^
- The idea of the book...?
CONS ~
- The writing was choppy and cringy. I was grimacing through basically every sentence.
- The dialogue was rough and sometimes had nothing to do with what the characters were originally discussing. Characters yelled at each other for the purpose of yelling at each other. :P
- The characters sucked. They were flat and contradicted their personalities. I didn't connect to any of them....and half of the decisions they made had no real purpose.
- The DRAMA. Honestly the "action" and "suspense" was dry and dramatic. I was grimacing the. Whole. Time. Ugh. I wasn't scared....merely unimpressed. :P
- The plot was choppy. Like I said....didn't connect well.
- And what was up with the tension between the cousins????! Honestly it seemed they were just trying to "be better" than the other for the purpose of tension. *drags hand down face*
CONTENT ~
- Overall very clean. There was "magical" elements....obviously witches are a main part of the story, but I was certain going into the book it was "Christian Fantasy". I'm pretty sure that assumption was incorrect.
- No bad language
- Violence? I mean fantasy/magic violence.... The cousins try to beat each other up.
OVERALL ~
- I'm unsatisfied with the whole thing. It was dry and cringy.
- I mean no offense to the author. His writing just needs help. :P
**FTC DISCLOSURE** I received a complementary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and are not to be taken personally. I mean no offense. :)
October 18, 2019
"The Elyrian" for me was fire! I adored each moment I spent with this book. As of now, I feel like I should grant this book the award of the best book I have read in 2019.
This is one of those books where you read and feel the need to embrace the Author. I respect the creative imagination of D P Rowell, and I undoubtedly will look out for more books by him.
It was magical, adventurous, suspense packed, and entertaining. What else will one ask of a fantasy novel! it is not just the kind of material one would turn out badly with.
The story encompasses a family where a larger part of them didn't know about their family's secret. Notwithstanding, inquisitive Ace who was 12 years of age was told of his family's secret by his grandpa.
The 12 years of age was likewise recounted of his duty to protect his family with the help of a Drake and a mystical stone in his possession which he was to stay quiet about.
I genuinely cherished my time with this book. I was delighted with the fact that the book was simple but progressed into something convoluted, yet not exhausting and easy to follow on.
My preferred characters were the young "Peppercorns"; Julie and Tamara. Those two are the most irritating characters I have read of or even observed in real life. In any case, they helped in lightening scenes up with there annoying personalities. At a point, I felt like pulling them out of the book and pounding them myself; lol!
This book is a decent one! I recommend it if you like yourself some fantasy novel. As for me; I will readily read another material by this writer.
This is one of those books where you read and feel the need to embrace the Author. I respect the creative imagination of D P Rowell, and I undoubtedly will look out for more books by him.
It was magical, adventurous, suspense packed, and entertaining. What else will one ask of a fantasy novel! it is not just the kind of material one would turn out badly with.
The story encompasses a family where a larger part of them didn't know about their family's secret. Notwithstanding, inquisitive Ace who was 12 years of age was told of his family's secret by his grandpa.
The 12 years of age was likewise recounted of his duty to protect his family with the help of a Drake and a mystical stone in his possession which he was to stay quiet about.
I genuinely cherished my time with this book. I was delighted with the fact that the book was simple but progressed into something convoluted, yet not exhausting and easy to follow on.
My preferred characters were the young "Peppercorns"; Julie and Tamara. Those two are the most irritating characters I have read of or even observed in real life. In any case, they helped in lightening scenes up with there annoying personalities. At a point, I felt like pulling them out of the book and pounding them myself; lol!
This book is a decent one! I recommend it if you like yourself some fantasy novel. As for me; I will readily read another material by this writer.
October 6, 2019
Authors almost never fail to amaze me in the Fantasy Genre and Science-fiction genre. This book was even better than most of them.
Let me explain how.
Plotwise, we see the adventure which is similar to what a lot of us would have imagined in our childhood. A twelve-year-old is given the responsibility to fight the darkness and the world in which he goes it in is filled with twists, magic, witches, dark creatures and whatnot.
I'm not sure how the author does it, but he makes the book relatable to the young and well as not so young readers. The actions and reactions of our hero, Ace are replicable of a real-world boy of the same age. It feels like the book is focused on the younger readers but as time passes, we can easily see the main character maturing with it.
The book takes on the popular dilemma of running away or staying to fight the unknown. The writing is descriptive and well-paced so all the side characters and actions would seem just rightly placed even with this book's above-average length.
Coming back to the plot once again, the story takes us on a journey where Ace has to travel to a world of creatures which he only saw in fairy tales in which he is the one chosen to fight the eveil. All of this begins with a mysterious stone which I guess would be a key element to the future of the series as well.
I'm already on the second book of the series and it's totally worth your time.
Let me explain how.
Plotwise, we see the adventure which is similar to what a lot of us would have imagined in our childhood. A twelve-year-old is given the responsibility to fight the darkness and the world in which he goes it in is filled with twists, magic, witches, dark creatures and whatnot.
I'm not sure how the author does it, but he makes the book relatable to the young and well as not so young readers. The actions and reactions of our hero, Ace are replicable of a real-world boy of the same age. It feels like the book is focused on the younger readers but as time passes, we can easily see the main character maturing with it.
The book takes on the popular dilemma of running away or staying to fight the unknown. The writing is descriptive and well-paced so all the side characters and actions would seem just rightly placed even with this book's above-average length.
Coming back to the plot once again, the story takes us on a journey where Ace has to travel to a world of creatures which he only saw in fairy tales in which he is the one chosen to fight the eveil. All of this begins with a mysterious stone which I guess would be a key element to the future of the series as well.
I'm already on the second book of the series and it's totally worth your time.
October 8, 2019
This book was amazing! I grabbed a review copy and honestly didn’t know what to expect. I loved the cover and the blurb sounded intriguing so I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did because I just loved it. I read it in just over 48 hours which is pretty fast for me.
This author is an amazing story teller. I was immediately drawn in and I read it every chance I got. The writing is just so good and the author has such a way with words. This book will take you an an adventure full of action and mystery. I just love the way everything played out in the story. Some things were left in the dark which I loved because it had that mystery feel to it, but it was never confusing. I enjoyed every second of it and can’t wait for the sequel! The story is told so well told and immediately draws you in. I definitely recommend it!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own*
This author is an amazing story teller. I was immediately drawn in and I read it every chance I got. The writing is just so good and the author has such a way with words. This book will take you an an adventure full of action and mystery. I just love the way everything played out in the story. Some things were left in the dark which I loved because it had that mystery feel to it, but it was never confusing. I enjoyed every second of it and can’t wait for the sequel! The story is told so well told and immediately draws you in. I definitely recommend it!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own*
October 13, 2019
Set in a New Realm filled with futuristic technology and mystical creatures, The Elyrian is an action packed book that follows Ace Halder. The young protagonist, who just wanted an upper hand over his cousins, was beyond confused when his grandfather dropped the news that he was the keeper of a stone he wasn’t supposed to have and go to a place that wasn’t supposed to be real.
It’s a very engaging read as Ace slowly to accept his responsibility, let’s go of past grudges and becomes the fighter he was believed to be.
Pros- The readers are able to connect with the book and have the same questions Ace was asking, running through their mind too. Characters were well described.
Cons- Initially the setting was a bit confusing but gets clearer as the story progress.
Recommended for young readers and anyone interested in the fantasy genre.
Rating 4.5/5
It’s a very engaging read as Ace slowly to accept his responsibility, let’s go of past grudges and becomes the fighter he was believed to be.
Pros- The readers are able to connect with the book and have the same questions Ace was asking, running through their mind too. Characters were well described.
Cons- Initially the setting was a bit confusing but gets clearer as the story progress.
Recommended for young readers and anyone interested in the fantasy genre.
Rating 4.5/5
October 7, 2019
I knew I’d love this book after reading the description but I was still surprised by how good it was! This author can write a good story! Wow, I was simply hooked the entire time and enjoyed every second of it. The writing style is amazing and goes perfectly with the story. There wasn’t a dry moment. The suspense and mystery was superb. I l adored the characters and I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. I definitely recommend this book and I’m so stoked for book 2!
January 31, 2019
4.85/5 - This was such a great read, especially when taking into account the fact that it is a first attempt on the author’s part! While it was written with younger readers in mind, it has a certain readability to it that allows adults to get plenty out of it as well.
Reminiscent of the Pendragon and Chronicles of Narnia series, this is a story brimming with vibrant, otherworldly scenery, an intriguing take on magic and witches, and an adventure filled with twists and turns that you can’t help but be pulled in by. Not only that, but it is also filled with life lessons—ones that are masterfully woven into the overall narrative for the reader to discover alongside the protagonist, Ace.
A surprisingly adept and relatable twelve-year old, Ace was a perfectly imperfect lead to the story. He is flawed—like nearly any hero, I would argue—but also gifted with a bold curiosity, and a willingness to adhere to his own personal code that is admirable.
It should be noted that there were some issues with punctuation, capitalization, and typos, as well as a very slight continuity error. However, this is not something that detracts from the overall story in my opinion. With a little bit of editing, these are things that can be easily fixed in order to improve the reading experience for those to come.
Overall, The Elyrian certainly paves the way for future novels in the series, and it was a joy to experience!
Reminiscent of the Pendragon and Chronicles of Narnia series, this is a story brimming with vibrant, otherworldly scenery, an intriguing take on magic and witches, and an adventure filled with twists and turns that you can’t help but be pulled in by. Not only that, but it is also filled with life lessons—ones that are masterfully woven into the overall narrative for the reader to discover alongside the protagonist, Ace.
A surprisingly adept and relatable twelve-year old, Ace was a perfectly imperfect lead to the story. He is flawed—like nearly any hero, I would argue—but also gifted with a bold curiosity, and a willingness to adhere to his own personal code that is admirable.
It should be noted that there were some issues with punctuation, capitalization, and typos, as well as a very slight continuity error. However, this is not something that detracts from the overall story in my opinion. With a little bit of editing, these are things that can be easily fixed in order to improve the reading experience for those to come.
Overall, The Elyrian certainly paves the way for future novels in the series, and it was a joy to experience!
January 24, 2020
A boy receives the Emerson stone from his grandfather- a stone that protects the bearer from the evil of the deceptive and magic-working witches and parcels, and above all, the darkness of the Warlock council.
He is chosen to rid the land of these beings who hide in plain site, by the righteous power of what is good and pure and just
Will Ace succeed in his mission? Or will he be captured himself under the council's spells?
Follow him in his journey as he discovers the beautiful land of Elyr and finds out more about himself than he has ever known before, and as he learns to forgive and fight against the seventh realm.
D. P. Rowell was wonderful at thinking up marvelously unique ideas for his fantasy novel, but the poor grammar and frequent typos did hinder me from enjoying it to the fullest.
Also, the Being who is supposed to represent God was referred to as 'it' sometimes, and at others: 'he'
I believe the author should have been more clear who Emery was, and not write as if he was not sovereignly in control. For God is above all things and will always overcome evil, and even in a fantasy story, I wish that to be very clear.
He is chosen to rid the land of these beings who hide in plain site, by the righteous power of what is good and pure and just
Will Ace succeed in his mission? Or will he be captured himself under the council's spells?
Follow him in his journey as he discovers the beautiful land of Elyr and finds out more about himself than he has ever known before, and as he learns to forgive and fight against the seventh realm.
D. P. Rowell was wonderful at thinking up marvelously unique ideas for his fantasy novel, but the poor grammar and frequent typos did hinder me from enjoying it to the fullest.
Also, the Being who is supposed to represent God was referred to as 'it' sometimes, and at others: 'he'
I believe the author should have been more clear who Emery was, and not write as if he was not sovereignly in control. For God is above all things and will always overcome evil, and even in a fantasy story, I wish that to be very clear.
April 17, 2019
A most entertaining and interesting tale of fairies, witches, tree goblins and all sorts of fantasy creatures out to grab the emerald stone for control of all the world!
May 1, 2021
I LOVE this book its so good I would rate it millions of stars.
April 17, 2020
This is the first D.P Rowell book I have read and I am officially a fan. The Elyrian is thrilling, adventure, and daring.
Ace Halder is the youngest, weakest and most disappointing child in his family, or so he thought until his Grandfather leaves him in charge of their family. Ace is brave, curious, loving and ready to defend his family and he has so much to learn.
I Love the world D.P Rowell creates and all the amazing creatures. The cliffhanger at the end killed me, I so wanted to know what would happen next. I can't wait to start on book 2.
Ace Halder is the youngest, weakest and most disappointing child in his family, or so he thought until his Grandfather leaves him in charge of their family. Ace is brave, curious, loving and ready to defend his family and he has so much to learn.
I Love the world D.P Rowell creates and all the amazing creatures. The cliffhanger at the end killed me, I so wanted to know what would happen next. I can't wait to start on book 2.
October 7, 2019
This book was really neat! I’ve haven’t read many books from this genre, but I think the author has me hooked! The writing was amazing and pulled me in from page 1. The suspense, mystery, and drama was so intriguing. This author is a story teller for sure! I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. The setting was really neat and the plot was well thought out. I really enjoyed reading this and I’m looking forward to book #2!
April 2, 2019
I struggled a lot with the writing style, the way the sentences were formed and the dialogue. For the first 70% it was so bad I considered DNF'ing it every few pages, but the story itself was interesting and fun to read, which is why I continued on.
April 12, 2020
I mean I wrote it. So I might be a little biased ;D
June 10, 2023
I like the Elyrian story because is such a a wonderful world. I love the layout of the story. I like the characters and personality and how they planned out. I favourite chapter is Kareena because he misteriously appeared. I love her behaviour. She is the first one to show Ace. The shy water and the light. I love how the story ended in the big cliff hanger. i like the Ace his best trainer is a Drake. I like other life form similar to humans that is called is anthropomorphism. I love the general story. I love everyone should read this. Thanking you.
December 31, 2022
This book has some great worldbuilding and has a plot which drives along fairly well. Reading it a chapter per night to my boy was a better experience than a handful I've read in the past!
Yet, it lacked the character depth which some other similar novels have become known for. Never was I particularly attached to any of the characters, including the protagonist.
Not a bad read, just not a top notch one either.
Yet, it lacked the character depth which some other similar novels have become known for. Never was I particularly attached to any of the characters, including the protagonist.
Not a bad read, just not a top notch one either.
December 4, 2023
Awesome book! I can’t wait to read the rest of this series!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews