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The Book of Secrets
(NOTE: This in an outdated edition. See The Book of Secrets)
The Book of Secrets was never meant to be found.
But Gabriel Draven found it. By accident—mostly. And he'd like to make it someone else's problem before it destroys his predictable life, thank you.
But what starts as a simple task turns into a rollicking, run-for-your-life road trip as Gabriel and his three siblings discover just how important the book is—and what a secret society of seers is willing to do to get their hands on it.
Gabriel's sister knows more about the society than she lets on...including the involvement of their long-dead mother. And suddenly, Gabriel wonders if finding The Book of Secrets was an accident at all, or part of a grander plan that he definitely didn't ask for.
As his journey takes him out of his realm and into another, Gabriel realizes that the deepest mystery lies at the heart of his own family, and he must do whatever it takes to find his way back home.
His predictable life isn't the only thing at stake. It's the fate of the realms.
The Book of Secrets was never meant to be found.
But Gabriel Draven found it. By accident—mostly. And he'd like to make it someone else's problem before it destroys his predictable life, thank you.
But what starts as a simple task turns into a rollicking, run-for-your-life road trip as Gabriel and his three siblings discover just how important the book is—and what a secret society of seers is willing to do to get their hands on it.
Gabriel's sister knows more about the society than she lets on...including the involvement of their long-dead mother. And suddenly, Gabriel wonders if finding The Book of Secrets was an accident at all, or part of a grander plan that he definitely didn't ask for.
As his journey takes him out of his realm and into another, Gabriel realizes that the deepest mystery lies at the heart of his own family, and he must do whatever it takes to find his way back home.
His predictable life isn't the only thing at stake. It's the fate of the realms.
232 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2019
98 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Little
13 books47 followersM.L. Little is a neurodivergent author of YA fantasy full of hope and humor in the face of horrific circumstances. The Book of Secrets, the first novel of The Seventh Realm trilogy and runner-up of the 2019 Indie Book Awards, is re-releasing soon with Inclusive Ink Books.
M.L. Little traded her home in the woods for a micro homestead that she shares with her partner (also an author), a three-legged rabbit and his bunwife, a disabled bird, two hermit crabs, and a worm farm.
M.L. Little traded her home in the woods for a micro homestead that she shares with her partner (also an author), a three-legged rabbit and his bunwife, a disabled bird, two hermit crabs, and a worm farm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 30, 2019
Wow. What an unique, wondrous, powerful tale!
I don’t even know where to begin! This is almost one of those stories you just have to experience. It’s hard to put into words. But I shall do my best!
THE RUNDOWN
Thirteen-year-old Gabriel, his older sister, and two younger brothers don’t exactly fit in. Motherless and with a father who is often away for his job on the sea, these children are quite accustomed to fending for themselves in their peculiar tree house home. To the people who live in their little town, they’re the oddballs. A little wild, a lot of strange, they’re the type of kids parents warn their children not to play with.
When Gabriel discovers a peculiar, magical, and quite possibly very dangerous book hidden away within the town bookstore, his and his siblings’ lives turn upside down. Something dark is coming, and it may just be up to them to stop it.
At first this seems like a fun, quirky, middle-grade fantasy adventure book but…oh boy. It is so much more than that. It was dark. It was emotional. It was powerful. And utterly beautiful.
This story is The Series of Unfortunate Events meets Harry Potter meets The Chronicles of Narnia, and if that doesn’t catch your interest then…well, I don’t know what to do for you.
CHARACTERS
There was so much to this book, but the characters are the true heart and soul. Even amidst a large plot and imaginative world, it still always comes back to the characters and their inner struggles, and I loved that.
Gabriel is our main character, but the center of the story is all the four siblings, their relationships, and their heartaches as they try to learn to cope with the grief of losing so, so much. And can I just say YES FOR SIBLING BOOKS.
Each character was so complex, it’s hard to pin them down as one thing. But I found that amazing. Because isn’t that how we all are as humans? We’re not just the “sassy, stubborn” type or the “flirtatious, bubbly” girl or what-have-you. People are so many things, and these characters really showcased that. Especially Gabriel, who was constantly fighting with the conflicting desires of wanting answers to so many questions plaguing his life and wanting to stay safe. His inner struggles were tangible. Though he often let fear take over, his deep and loyal love for his family was his true driving force. My heart absolutely ached for him as he was thrust into so many terrible scenarios and had to make such hard decisions. Truly a protagonist to root for. Although there was a bit where he went a little backward on his arc. BUT this is just the first book of a series, so I suspect there will be more to his arc to come.
His siblings, too, were such lovable characters. Melancholy Ren and her secrets. Rough and tumble Hollis and his big heart. Sweet little Patch who is wise beyond his years. They were such a precious group, and their relationships were so REAL. There was plenty of bickering and strong disagreements and misunderstandings. But, at the end of the day, their love always held them together. I JUST LOVE SIBLING BOOKS. And this is one of the best I’ve ever read!
There were other characters as well. In fact, I got a little dizzy with the abundance of side characters. But each held such an unique and intriguing personality, I was eventually able to tell who was who.
This book just held so much heart because of the deep complexity of each character and their relationships and struggles.
OTHER THINGS TO LOVE
-The setting. How do I even describe the setting??? It was like if you dumped bits and pieces of our modern world into a fantasy world. There were normal things like trains, bikes, refrigerators, and the like, but there was also a castle and people using swords and an abundance of fantasy creatures. It was a hodge-podge of modern meets old world fantasy and…I loved that? I feel like “unique” isn’t a strong enough word. It was fascinating all the way around!
-A sense of wonder. To go along with the original world, there was this abundance of wonder in this story. Wolfdragons and candy-striped cats and magical books and tiny elephant-like creatures and train rides and a tree house home and on and on it goes. I love those types of books that awaken that child-like wonder in all of us!
-Darkness and emotional depth. Yes, I putting “dark” under positive things because I’m just that type of reader. *cough* Like I mentioned earlier, with first appearances this seems like your average middle-grade fantasy adventure book. HAHAHAHAHA! I’m questioning if to even file it under middle-grade? The characters’ ages fit that genre, but some of the topics, violence, and themes felt catered to an older audience. This is not a happy-go-lucky read. These characters go through a lot, physically and emotionally. And the story does not take these matters lightly. But I loved that. It really made an impact because of the high stakes and emotional depth. Speaking of which…
-Beautiful themes, non-preachy allegories, and hope. Yes, it is dark. Things seem bad. Really, really bad. But there is still that sense of hope lingering at the edges. Aside from the siblings thing, this book reminds me of Narnia because of that. It’s brimming with powerful allegories AND YET you barely even realize it. At first I didn't even realize this was a Christian book, because never once did I feel preached to. The allegory was so seamlessly woven into the plot you don’t even realize it is an allegory. It was somehow both non-obtrusive and powerful. Alllll the points to the author for pulling off such beautiful brilliance!
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE
Though the unique world was awesome, I do wish there had been a bit more description. I found myself struggling to picture things on multiple occasions. Sometimes the details I wanted came in much later, when I really needed them when a creature or new area was first introduced. Just a fewww added details would have helped a ton.
The plot, also, got a little hard to follow. Now, I love complex plots to the very depth of my heart. But, man, this one often made my head spin.
With all the side characters, the vaaast and complicated world, the fast-paced action, the messy character relationships, and the tangled plot, there was a lot to keep up with. The first half of the book I especially kept getting lost. By the second half, I had more of a grasp on things and was really getting into it. But yeah, I had to constantly put my thinking cap on while reading. I don’t know if it was me or the book, but I just found a lot of it hard to follow and picture.
CONCLUSION
As I said at the beginning, this is really just a novel you need to experience. Despite this monstrous review, I feel like I’m doing a terrible job describing it. It’s truly a book like no other.
It’s a story of the deep, irreplaceable bond of family. Of the dangers of letting fear hold you back from living your life. Of doing the right thing, no matter the cost. Both dark and wondrous, achingly painful and full of heart, a fantastical adventure and a complex, inner journey, this is the type of book that will stick with you long after you’ve finished it.
If you like sibling books, fantasy adventures, and beautiful themes, well, you need this book.
You can find a more detailed review on my blog: https://christinesmithauthor.com/2019/09/book-review-the-book-of-secrets-by-m-l-little/
I don’t even know where to begin! This is almost one of those stories you just have to experience. It’s hard to put into words. But I shall do my best!
THE RUNDOWN
Thirteen-year-old Gabriel, his older sister, and two younger brothers don’t exactly fit in. Motherless and with a father who is often away for his job on the sea, these children are quite accustomed to fending for themselves in their peculiar tree house home. To the people who live in their little town, they’re the oddballs. A little wild, a lot of strange, they’re the type of kids parents warn their children not to play with.
When Gabriel discovers a peculiar, magical, and quite possibly very dangerous book hidden away within the town bookstore, his and his siblings’ lives turn upside down. Something dark is coming, and it may just be up to them to stop it.
At first this seems like a fun, quirky, middle-grade fantasy adventure book but…oh boy. It is so much more than that. It was dark. It was emotional. It was powerful. And utterly beautiful.
This story is The Series of Unfortunate Events meets Harry Potter meets The Chronicles of Narnia, and if that doesn’t catch your interest then…well, I don’t know what to do for you.
CHARACTERS
There was so much to this book, but the characters are the true heart and soul. Even amidst a large plot and imaginative world, it still always comes back to the characters and their inner struggles, and I loved that.
Gabriel is our main character, but the center of the story is all the four siblings, their relationships, and their heartaches as they try to learn to cope with the grief of losing so, so much. And can I just say YES FOR SIBLING BOOKS.
Each character was so complex, it’s hard to pin them down as one thing. But I found that amazing. Because isn’t that how we all are as humans? We’re not just the “sassy, stubborn” type or the “flirtatious, bubbly” girl or what-have-you. People are so many things, and these characters really showcased that. Especially Gabriel, who was constantly fighting with the conflicting desires of wanting answers to so many questions plaguing his life and wanting to stay safe. His inner struggles were tangible. Though he often let fear take over, his deep and loyal love for his family was his true driving force. My heart absolutely ached for him as he was thrust into so many terrible scenarios and had to make such hard decisions. Truly a protagonist to root for. Although there was a bit where he went a little backward on his arc. BUT this is just the first book of a series, so I suspect there will be more to his arc to come.
His siblings, too, were such lovable characters. Melancholy Ren and her secrets. Rough and tumble Hollis and his big heart. Sweet little Patch who is wise beyond his years. They were such a precious group, and their relationships were so REAL. There was plenty of bickering and strong disagreements and misunderstandings. But, at the end of the day, their love always held them together. I JUST LOVE SIBLING BOOKS. And this is one of the best I’ve ever read!
There were other characters as well. In fact, I got a little dizzy with the abundance of side characters. But each held such an unique and intriguing personality, I was eventually able to tell who was who.
This book just held so much heart because of the deep complexity of each character and their relationships and struggles.
OTHER THINGS TO LOVE
-The setting. How do I even describe the setting??? It was like if you dumped bits and pieces of our modern world into a fantasy world. There were normal things like trains, bikes, refrigerators, and the like, but there was also a castle and people using swords and an abundance of fantasy creatures. It was a hodge-podge of modern meets old world fantasy and…I loved that? I feel like “unique” isn’t a strong enough word. It was fascinating all the way around!
-A sense of wonder. To go along with the original world, there was this abundance of wonder in this story. Wolfdragons and candy-striped cats and magical books and tiny elephant-like creatures and train rides and a tree house home and on and on it goes. I love those types of books that awaken that child-like wonder in all of us!
-Darkness and emotional depth. Yes, I putting “dark” under positive things because I’m just that type of reader. *cough* Like I mentioned earlier, with first appearances this seems like your average middle-grade fantasy adventure book. HAHAHAHAHA! I’m questioning if to even file it under middle-grade? The characters’ ages fit that genre, but some of the topics, violence, and themes felt catered to an older audience. This is not a happy-go-lucky read. These characters go through a lot, physically and emotionally. And the story does not take these matters lightly. But I loved that. It really made an impact because of the high stakes and emotional depth. Speaking of which…
-Beautiful themes, non-preachy allegories, and hope. Yes, it is dark. Things seem bad. Really, really bad. But there is still that sense of hope lingering at the edges. Aside from the siblings thing, this book reminds me of Narnia because of that. It’s brimming with powerful allegories AND YET you barely even realize it. At first I didn't even realize this was a Christian book, because never once did I feel preached to. The allegory was so seamlessly woven into the plot you don’t even realize it is an allegory. It was somehow both non-obtrusive and powerful. Alllll the points to the author for pulling off such beautiful brilliance!
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE
Though the unique world was awesome, I do wish there had been a bit more description. I found myself struggling to picture things on multiple occasions. Sometimes the details I wanted came in much later, when I really needed them when a creature or new area was first introduced. Just a fewww added details would have helped a ton.
The plot, also, got a little hard to follow. Now, I love complex plots to the very depth of my heart. But, man, this one often made my head spin.
With all the side characters, the vaaast and complicated world, the fast-paced action, the messy character relationships, and the tangled plot, there was a lot to keep up with. The first half of the book I especially kept getting lost. By the second half, I had more of a grasp on things and was really getting into it. But yeah, I had to constantly put my thinking cap on while reading. I don’t know if it was me or the book, but I just found a lot of it hard to follow and picture.
CONCLUSION
As I said at the beginning, this is really just a novel you need to experience. Despite this monstrous review, I feel like I’m doing a terrible job describing it. It’s truly a book like no other.
It’s a story of the deep, irreplaceable bond of family. Of the dangers of letting fear hold you back from living your life. Of doing the right thing, no matter the cost. Both dark and wondrous, achingly painful and full of heart, a fantastical adventure and a complex, inner journey, this is the type of book that will stick with you long after you’ve finished it.
If you like sibling books, fantasy adventures, and beautiful themes, well, you need this book.
You can find a more detailed review on my blog: https://christinesmithauthor.com/2019/09/book-review-the-book-of-secrets-by-m-l-little/
June 28, 2020
3.5 stars.
The best way I can think of to describe this book is the offspring of Narnia, The Wingfeather Saga, and the Lord of the Rings (don't think about that too hard XD). It took me an unheavenly amount of time to read, but that's really no fault of the book's. It was very fun and well-written, if not the most amazing story I've ever read.
LIKES:
- the family/sibling dynamics. This is where I got the most Wingfeather Saga vibes. One of my favorite things to find in fiction is prominent conflict among siblings, especially when they're all working together against the main antagonist and their family issues are a bonus that helps connect everything. The Book of Secrets executed that aspect really well, and the depth it brought drew the characters closer to my heart.
- the magic and worldbuilding. This is where one gets mild LotR vibes, but don't worry about it being too similar; it's actually very unique. The author's creativity REALLY comes through with the Book of Secrets (the book inside the book, I mean XD) and the magic stone that are so central to the story. The concept of multiple realms and how it furthered the plot was also amazing (and quite intense)!
DISLIKES:
- the worldbuilding. I loved the world for the most part, but there was one confusing aspect that I couldn't quite get behind. The author tried to combine medieval and modern, and it didn't work very well. It was jarring to be plodding along with the characters in a LotR-type village one moment, then see a car driving by the next.
- slow start. It took me a while to grow accustomed to the story, but by the time I hit the halfway mark I was invested enough in the characters to struggle to put the book down. XD I'm picky about beginnings, though, so this may be more of a personal preference. It takes me a bit to get into a story unless it's significantly higher than my expectations from the get-go.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It pulls at your heartstrings at just the right places. It paces itself surprisingly well for being a complex fantasy packed into a fairly short novel. The plot is securely woven and satisfying (while still leaving you with a BUNCH of questions for the next installment). If you enjoyed LotR, Narnia, and/or Wingfeather Saga in any capacity, you should check this one out!
*I received a free digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The best way I can think of to describe this book is the offspring of Narnia, The Wingfeather Saga, and the Lord of the Rings (don't think about that too hard XD). It took me an unheavenly amount of time to read, but that's really no fault of the book's. It was very fun and well-written, if not the most amazing story I've ever read.
LIKES:
- the family/sibling dynamics. This is where I got the most Wingfeather Saga vibes. One of my favorite things to find in fiction is prominent conflict among siblings, especially when they're all working together against the main antagonist and their family issues are a bonus that helps connect everything. The Book of Secrets executed that aspect really well, and the depth it brought drew the characters closer to my heart.
- the magic and worldbuilding. This is where one gets mild LotR vibes, but don't worry about it being too similar; it's actually very unique. The author's creativity REALLY comes through with the Book of Secrets (the book inside the book, I mean XD) and the magic stone that are so central to the story. The concept of multiple realms and how it furthered the plot was also amazing (and quite intense)!
DISLIKES:
- the worldbuilding. I loved the world for the most part, but there was one confusing aspect that I couldn't quite get behind. The author tried to combine medieval and modern, and it didn't work very well. It was jarring to be plodding along with the characters in a LotR-type village one moment, then see a car driving by the next.
- slow start. It took me a while to grow accustomed to the story, but by the time I hit the halfway mark I was invested enough in the characters to struggle to put the book down. XD I'm picky about beginnings, though, so this may be more of a personal preference. It takes me a bit to get into a story unless it's significantly higher than my expectations from the get-go.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It pulls at your heartstrings at just the right places. It paces itself surprisingly well for being a complex fantasy packed into a fairly short novel. The plot is securely woven and satisfying (while still leaving you with a BUNCH of questions for the next installment). If you enjoyed LotR, Narnia, and/or Wingfeather Saga in any capacity, you should check this one out!
*I received a free digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 31, 2020
I realized I forgot to add my review! Here it is:
A cross between Alice in Wonderland and Series of Unfortunate Events, plus a dash of steampunk, The Book of Secrets is a fun and easy read. Overall, it was a fast-paced adventure story with a dash of fantasy and mystery that kept me turning the pages.
Plot:
The story follows Gabriel, a young boy whose curiosity and capture of the Stone of Seven Realms results in a series of consequences for his family. His adventures take him across the continent, to various cities and settings that I couldn’t keep track of. Plot-wise, the book never stopped for a breath without a reason. Just like Gabriel, the reader was caught in the fear of what would happen next to him or his family. With supernatural creatures and an unknown enemy following them everywhere, it was easy to read this book because of the action-filled plot.
Characters:
This book is character-driven, but not in a clear way. Gabriel is the reason for the events that occur, and the secrets of his family enrich the plot. However, his struggle is still not completely resolved in the book. His fear follows him throughout the story, and when I felt like it was finally conquered, he fell back into his old ways. So, there was some development and definitely a sense of bildungsroman, where a boy grows up, it wasn’t complete. This may be because the book is the first in a series, so perhaps I will have to wait and see for the next book.
Also, as a side note, I really enjoyed the vast array of other characters. Gabriel has a large family, and each one is unique and stands on his or her own. As a fellow writer, I can appreciate how well she keeps each character unique and makes notes when they break that mold. I also like Ren, Gabriel’s older sister, who is haunted by her own secrets, and look forward to reading more about her.
Setting:
This is where the book takes on an Alice in Wonderland vibe. The ever-changing setting is confusing. Sometimes, I will feel as if I understand it, but then it switches in a direction I didn’t understand. The confusion also comes when I realized it is not a medieval setting, despite the use of knives and the initial setting of a tavern. Instead, the nearest I can call it is steampunk because of the use of electric vehicles of transportation. There are also areas that seem like they are medieval because of the forest and cave, as well as magic. So, I felt like the author was walking in two worlds: one medieval, one technological. This is why I believe that the author was trying to create an Alice in Wonderland setting, instead of a firm fantasy world.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Because of the problems I had with setting and character, I could not give this book my full five-star review. However, I did enjoy the book and want to read the next in the series. Also, because this is a middle-grade novel, I wonder if a twelve to fourteen-year-old would care about the same things as me. I also wonder if the next in the series will wipe away any confusion I feel after finishing. That is why I still recommend this book with 4 stars--it is a fast-paced, easy to read the novel, with something for everyone.
Notes on the Content: There are mentions of ghosts and nighthags which may affect some people's sensibilities. There is also an afterlife scene which may be controversial to some Christians.
A cross between Alice in Wonderland and Series of Unfortunate Events, plus a dash of steampunk, The Book of Secrets is a fun and easy read. Overall, it was a fast-paced adventure story with a dash of fantasy and mystery that kept me turning the pages.
Plot:
The story follows Gabriel, a young boy whose curiosity and capture of the Stone of Seven Realms results in a series of consequences for his family. His adventures take him across the continent, to various cities and settings that I couldn’t keep track of. Plot-wise, the book never stopped for a breath without a reason. Just like Gabriel, the reader was caught in the fear of what would happen next to him or his family. With supernatural creatures and an unknown enemy following them everywhere, it was easy to read this book because of the action-filled plot.
Characters:
This book is character-driven, but not in a clear way. Gabriel is the reason for the events that occur, and the secrets of his family enrich the plot. However, his struggle is still not completely resolved in the book. His fear follows him throughout the story, and when I felt like it was finally conquered, he fell back into his old ways. So, there was some development and definitely a sense of bildungsroman, where a boy grows up, it wasn’t complete. This may be because the book is the first in a series, so perhaps I will have to wait and see for the next book.
Also, as a side note, I really enjoyed the vast array of other characters. Gabriel has a large family, and each one is unique and stands on his or her own. As a fellow writer, I can appreciate how well she keeps each character unique and makes notes when they break that mold. I also like Ren, Gabriel’s older sister, who is haunted by her own secrets, and look forward to reading more about her.
Setting:
This is where the book takes on an Alice in Wonderland vibe. The ever-changing setting is confusing. Sometimes, I will feel as if I understand it, but then it switches in a direction I didn’t understand. The confusion also comes when I realized it is not a medieval setting, despite the use of knives and the initial setting of a tavern. Instead, the nearest I can call it is steampunk because of the use of electric vehicles of transportation. There are also areas that seem like they are medieval because of the forest and cave, as well as magic. So, I felt like the author was walking in two worlds: one medieval, one technological. This is why I believe that the author was trying to create an Alice in Wonderland setting, instead of a firm fantasy world.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Because of the problems I had with setting and character, I could not give this book my full five-star review. However, I did enjoy the book and want to read the next in the series. Also, because this is a middle-grade novel, I wonder if a twelve to fourteen-year-old would care about the same things as me. I also wonder if the next in the series will wipe away any confusion I feel after finishing. That is why I still recommend this book with 4 stars--it is a fast-paced, easy to read the novel, with something for everyone.
Notes on the Content: There are mentions of ghosts and nighthags which may affect some people's sensibilities. There is also an afterlife scene which may be controversial to some Christians.
May 27, 2019
"If you listen close, you can hear the world waking up." - Hazel Fenneby, The Book of Secrets
I love this book.
It is a book with a message, it is a book with power, it is a book that means something. It is a book that breathes.
The Book of Secrets jump-starts with a prologue that is crammed with the most delicious, whimsical fantasy world-building ever. If you don't like whimsy, you're not going to like this book. If you adore it (like me) this book is going to send you into the seventh heaven.
That's not to say the prologue is an info-dump. Far from it! It's just juicy with tidbits, and at the same time pulls off one of the most exciting and question-inducing hooks I've ever read. You'll be asking them, too. Who is the man from Caravel? What happens to Gabriel and the stone?
The story revolves around the Draven family, and specifically thirteen-year-old, undersized Gabriel Draven. From the first page onward, Night knit me to this oddball family. None of the children quite fit in anywhere; all cope in their own unique ways. Ren and her hunting, independent and somehow neither girlish nor tomboyish, just her very own person hiding so much beneath the surface. Gabriel, intelligent, creative, and too curious for his own good -- then too scared to face the consequences. Hollis, a peculiar nine-year-old bookworm, seeking entertainment in whatever innovative way he can get it. Dale is quite the most normal of the five, providing a sensible backup here and there though he doesn't play much into the story, but if you watch him closely enough, you get to love him too. Patch, the adorable, childish youngest, with a strange perceptivity for his six years.
Plot: unique, complex, and jumpy -- just like Gabriel. Could be dizzying with the many geographical leaps (that's what happens with a time-traveling stone!), but M.L. Little carries it off with a skillful balance of dialogue and character bonding.
World: a winsome mashup of punks and eras that shows the glory of a writer who isn't afraid to use fantasy in its fullest potential. The world of Glennerdells works, in its funny combination of trains, horses, and photography. Don't try too hard to explain it. It just needs to be.
I read TBoS in its earliest form and loved it, and now that it is polished and perfected I love it more than ever. If you want a world of rough-and-tumble, of mystery, family, and heartbreaking beauty, read The Book of Secrets. You will not regret the read.
I love this book.
It is a book with a message, it is a book with power, it is a book that means something. It is a book that breathes.
The Book of Secrets jump-starts with a prologue that is crammed with the most delicious, whimsical fantasy world-building ever. If you don't like whimsy, you're not going to like this book. If you adore it (like me) this book is going to send you into the seventh heaven.
That's not to say the prologue is an info-dump. Far from it! It's just juicy with tidbits, and at the same time pulls off one of the most exciting and question-inducing hooks I've ever read. You'll be asking them, too. Who is the man from Caravel? What happens to Gabriel and the stone?
The story revolves around the Draven family, and specifically thirteen-year-old, undersized Gabriel Draven. From the first page onward, Night knit me to this oddball family. None of the children quite fit in anywhere; all cope in their own unique ways. Ren and her hunting, independent and somehow neither girlish nor tomboyish, just her very own person hiding so much beneath the surface. Gabriel, intelligent, creative, and too curious for his own good -- then too scared to face the consequences. Hollis, a peculiar nine-year-old bookworm, seeking entertainment in whatever innovative way he can get it. Dale is quite the most normal of the five, providing a sensible backup here and there though he doesn't play much into the story, but if you watch him closely enough, you get to love him too. Patch, the adorable, childish youngest, with a strange perceptivity for his six years.
Plot: unique, complex, and jumpy -- just like Gabriel. Could be dizzying with the many geographical leaps (that's what happens with a time-traveling stone!), but M.L. Little carries it off with a skillful balance of dialogue and character bonding.
World: a winsome mashup of punks and eras that shows the glory of a writer who isn't afraid to use fantasy in its fullest potential. The world of Glennerdells works, in its funny combination of trains, horses, and photography. Don't try too hard to explain it. It just needs to be.
I read TBoS in its earliest form and loved it, and now that it is polished and perfected I love it more than ever. If you want a world of rough-and-tumble, of mystery, family, and heartbreaking beauty, read The Book of Secrets. You will not regret the read.
August 18, 2019
Gabriel has rejected his mother's way of life.
He doesn't like talk of wizards and witches and seers and avoids it at all costs.
So why does it keep choosing him?
First he finds a mysterious stone which holds more power than he can imagine. Then he finds a book full of secrets hidden away in an old bookshop.
His journey after that is epic to say the least.
The Book of Secrets took me on an adventure of a lifetime. Through different worlds, and imagined creatures. I was entertained with every word.
I had a grand time with Gabriel, Ren, Patch and Hollis as they traveled through uncertain times and learned having a brother is no small thing.
It warmed my heart to read about these quirky siblings and their story made me feel closer to my siblings.
I also really loved that the author wove her faith into this story in a creative way.
It was refreshing to see that in a genre that usually struggles with that in my opinion.
Little's writing was often quite well, gorgeous! Sometimes she described the simplest of things in the most amazing way. I adored it.
P.S I totally recommend for fans of Harry Potter!
Order the book now!
-Rebekah
**I received a free ebook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way obligated to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are purely my own.
He doesn't like talk of wizards and witches and seers and avoids it at all costs.
So why does it keep choosing him?
First he finds a mysterious stone which holds more power than he can imagine. Then he finds a book full of secrets hidden away in an old bookshop.
His journey after that is epic to say the least.
The Book of Secrets took me on an adventure of a lifetime. Through different worlds, and imagined creatures. I was entertained with every word.
I had a grand time with Gabriel, Ren, Patch and Hollis as they traveled through uncertain times and learned having a brother is no small thing.
It warmed my heart to read about these quirky siblings and their story made me feel closer to my siblings.
I also really loved that the author wove her faith into this story in a creative way.
It was refreshing to see that in a genre that usually struggles with that in my opinion.
Little's writing was often quite well, gorgeous! Sometimes she described the simplest of things in the most amazing way. I adored it.
P.S I totally recommend for fans of Harry Potter!
Order the book now!
-Rebekah
**I received a free ebook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way obligated to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are purely my own.
November 30, 2019
4.5 Stars! =D
Special thanks to the author for giving me an copy in exchange for an honest review. The author did not pay me for a review and all the thoughts here are my own honest opinion.
Wow, that ending had me crying.... I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! Can't wait for book two to come out!
The World Building!
The world building was just awesome! Can we just take a moment to appreciate the uniqueness of the world we get to read about!?! I love stories that makes fantasy and modern-day technology into a way that makes sense.
On the fantasy side of things, we had things like these castle dragons (which are the equivalent to rats), people selling house-dragons in the market, wisps, wolfdragons, these extremely wise elephant-like people, and pink cats. There was magic, wizards, and seers. Kings and queens and guards. Swords and arrows and castles and riding horses. Just pure awesomeness.
Then on the modern side of things, there was stuff like electricity, neon signs, refrigerators, cars, trains, and guns. And I could go on and on about these things, but think you get the idea, it was awesome, and wonderful, and just everything!
What I really loved about the world building is how it explained why not everyone had electricity. Like for instance the main characters in the story live in a tree house off the grid, while people in town have some electricity. The bigger the town the more advanced it was in technology, like they could have electrical dams and more places to charge your electric cars. This was a very war-torn country so a lot of the smaller towns suffered a little with having technology, which is exactly how I would imagine it. I only questioned why they still use swords when they had guns at their disposal, but I think it could be because of manufacturing and the problems with gunpowder. And then I guess even we use swords and guns in the same era before, so I guess I don't need to question it too much.
The description in this book is really good! I especially love the description of the tree house and the castle. Especially with all the food they ate, just, YES!!!
The Characters:
There were a lot of characters in the story, so I will not cover all of them, mainly to keep spoilers out of this review. However, I'll be discussing the most important characters; the Dravens family. First of all, I love this family and the dramatics of this family. It had a wonderful sibling relationship, and I even came to love the father.
Gabriel! He was our main POV in the story. And while I LOVED him, I also had some problems with him. But actually they weren't really problems per se. He was written as a thirteen-year-old boy, and he acted like a thirteen-year-old boy. BUT, okay, he was a little racist at times, which was the main thing I didn't like about him. And the fact that he didn't like Wescott, I honestly couldn't figure out why, Wescott was not perfect but it does mean he wasn't cool.
Anyway, Gabriel was very caring towards his siblings, and I love how he wanted to protect them and how much he loved them. He has a hard time trusting new people; I think part of that has to do with how much he wants to protect his family. He misses his dead mother and he takes a lot of the responsibilities that makes me so proud of him.
REN!!! She's probably my most favorite character in this book! She was mysterious, had a mysterious scar on her face, is great at hunting birds, and walks at odd hours alone in the forest. She doesn't talk very much, but when she does talk, you should listen to her. She lives for her youngest brother Patch, but cares so much for all of her brothers. JUST REN!!! I LOVED HER, OKAY!?!
Hollis! At first I didn't like how we didn't have too much time with him in the very beginning of the story. But when he showed up, just YES!!! He was nine and did typical nine-year-old stuff. Like wanting to play rough, wanting to play soldier and those types of things. Even though he did things on impulse, he was still extremely caring to strangers, and that's why I loved him so much.
Patch!!! I LOVE THIS LITTLE KID AND WANT TO ADOPT HIM AS MY OWN!!! He was wise beyond his years, was super sweet, but he still acted his age and always had some question one would ask at that age! JUST YES!!! I was so heartbroken at how many times this kid mentions the possibility that he was the one who killed his mother. *Cries*
Maple!!! I LOVE THIS DOG!!! Though she was no doubt Ren's dog, she was always caring towards the other members of the family and always watched out for them. She was so much part of this family that she was with them every part of their adventure. The kids were also always looking out for her and were always going back for her and making sure she was never left behind. I just love this dog, okay?
Dale and Anna. So I didn't like them too much. Dale was their brother and Anna was their sister-in-law, but they lived in another house than the other siblings did. And their dad wasn't around a lot. So instead of Dale keeping a closer eye on them, his younger siblings basically lived by themselves. However, Dale and Anna were not bad people, they did often share their food with their siblings and did check up on them once in a while. They were still pretty caring, and I do realize that they were just trying to make ends meet and raise their own little family themselves. They just were in the novel much, so...
The father! So at first I didn't think we were even going to see him in this novel because he is a fisherman and wasn't around much. But boy was I given a pleasant surprise when he showed up and I even loved him a lot! He loved his children and was concerned for their well-being. I just loved him!
The Plot:
The plot was genius! I know that it took me a while to finish reading it (that was only because I had a very busy month) but I was never bored with it. The character arcs were fantastic. I really like how even the smallest details came together. Everything about the stone in the book was gah! Great!
That ending though! Don't ever make me cry that hard again!
Things I Didn't Like:
The Writing:
I know that I said that I had liked the writing and all that. But there were a few problems with it. First of all, in order to describe some things that Gabriel couldn't see because he is sleeping the book would head hop to a Third Person Omniscient point of view. It didn't do this too often. And it wasn't too badly done; I just like consistency, so...
There were a few confusing scenes that were hard to follow. An example is the train scene when it was being attacked. It wasn't too bad, but I did wonder about a few things.
There were a few things that didn't get tied up at the end. Like there was a mention of a daughter being born of one of the three seers and then it cut to the next scene and never emphasize more on that. And then there was all the people and creatures trying to catch Gabriel, but yet, it just stopped at the end? I think it needed to say something more about that, maybe a little.
There were also a few inconsistencies.
Content in Book:
1. Violence. (Hand-to-hand combat. Pushing people. With swords, knives, arrows, guns, spears, and other weapons. Mentions of blood, semi-detailed; sometimes described like worms rolling down, also described as blood. People dying. Creatures trying to kill people. Some descriptions of someone raking their nails on their skin until they bled. Broken bones. Battles. Etc.)
2. Magic.
3. Description of people mind controlling other people to cause them to fight and kill their friends.
4. Mythical creatures.
5. Some scary creatures that are violent and try to kill people. Such as ghostlike creatures and some skeleton-like creatures.
6. Lock picking. Selling things at the black market.
7. Slavery.
Who I Would Recommend This Book Too:
Those who like fantasy stories with strong families, modern technology, and a wonderful sense of awe and adventure. GO READ THE BOOK!!!!
Will I Continue With The Next Book In The Series???
YES!!! LIKE WHEN WILL IT COME OUT!?! I NEED IT IN MY LIFE!!!
Special thanks to the author for giving me an copy in exchange for an honest review. The author did not pay me for a review and all the thoughts here are my own honest opinion.
Wow, that ending had me crying.... I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! Can't wait for book two to come out!
The World Building!
The world building was just awesome! Can we just take a moment to appreciate the uniqueness of the world we get to read about!?! I love stories that makes fantasy and modern-day technology into a way that makes sense.
On the fantasy side of things, we had things like these castle dragons (which are the equivalent to rats), people selling house-dragons in the market, wisps, wolfdragons, these extremely wise elephant-like people, and pink cats. There was magic, wizards, and seers. Kings and queens and guards. Swords and arrows and castles and riding horses. Just pure awesomeness.
Then on the modern side of things, there was stuff like electricity, neon signs, refrigerators, cars, trains, and guns. And I could go on and on about these things, but think you get the idea, it was awesome, and wonderful, and just everything!
What I really loved about the world building is how it explained why not everyone had electricity. Like for instance the main characters in the story live in a tree house off the grid, while people in town have some electricity. The bigger the town the more advanced it was in technology, like they could have electrical dams and more places to charge your electric cars. This was a very war-torn country so a lot of the smaller towns suffered a little with having technology, which is exactly how I would imagine it. I only questioned why they still use swords when they had guns at their disposal, but I think it could be because of manufacturing and the problems with gunpowder. And then I guess even we use swords and guns in the same era before, so I guess I don't need to question it too much.
The description in this book is really good! I especially love the description of the tree house and the castle. Especially with all the food they ate, just, YES!!!
The Characters:
There were a lot of characters in the story, so I will not cover all of them, mainly to keep spoilers out of this review. However, I'll be discussing the most important characters; the Dravens family. First of all, I love this family and the dramatics of this family. It had a wonderful sibling relationship, and I even came to love the father.
Gabriel! He was our main POV in the story. And while I LOVED him, I also had some problems with him. But actually they weren't really problems per se. He was written as a thirteen-year-old boy, and he acted like a thirteen-year-old boy. BUT, okay, he was a little racist at times, which was the main thing I didn't like about him. And the fact that he didn't like Wescott, I honestly couldn't figure out why, Wescott was not perfect but it does mean he wasn't cool.
Anyway, Gabriel was very caring towards his siblings, and I love how he wanted to protect them and how much he loved them. He has a hard time trusting new people; I think part of that has to do with how much he wants to protect his family. He misses his dead mother and he takes a lot of the responsibilities that makes me so proud of him.
REN!!! She's probably my most favorite character in this book! She was mysterious, had a mysterious scar on her face, is great at hunting birds, and walks at odd hours alone in the forest. She doesn't talk very much, but when she does talk, you should listen to her. She lives for her youngest brother Patch, but cares so much for all of her brothers. JUST REN!!! I LOVED HER, OKAY!?!
Hollis! At first I didn't like how we didn't have too much time with him in the very beginning of the story. But when he showed up, just YES!!! He was nine and did typical nine-year-old stuff. Like wanting to play rough, wanting to play soldier and those types of things. Even though he did things on impulse, he was still extremely caring to strangers, and that's why I loved him so much.
Patch!!! I LOVE THIS LITTLE KID AND WANT TO ADOPT HIM AS MY OWN!!! He was wise beyond his years, was super sweet, but he still acted his age and always had some question one would ask at that age! JUST YES!!! I was so heartbroken at how many times this kid mentions the possibility that he was the one who killed his mother. *Cries*
Maple!!! I LOVE THIS DOG!!! Though she was no doubt Ren's dog, she was always caring towards the other members of the family and always watched out for them. She was so much part of this family that she was with them every part of their adventure. The kids were also always looking out for her and were always going back for her and making sure she was never left behind. I just love this dog, okay?
Dale and Anna. So I didn't like them too much. Dale was their brother and Anna was their sister-in-law, but they lived in another house than the other siblings did. And their dad wasn't around a lot. So instead of Dale keeping a closer eye on them, his younger siblings basically lived by themselves. However, Dale and Anna were not bad people, they did often share their food with their siblings and did check up on them once in a while. They were still pretty caring, and I do realize that they were just trying to make ends meet and raise their own little family themselves. They just were in the novel much, so...
The father! So at first I didn't think we were even going to see him in this novel because he is a fisherman and wasn't around much. But boy was I given a pleasant surprise when he showed up and I even loved him a lot! He loved his children and was concerned for their well-being. I just loved him!
The Plot:
The plot was genius! I know that it took me a while to finish reading it (that was only because I had a very busy month) but I was never bored with it. The character arcs were fantastic. I really like how even the smallest details came together. Everything about the stone in the book was gah! Great!
That ending though! Don't ever make me cry that hard again!
Things I Didn't Like:
The Writing:
I know that I said that I had liked the writing and all that. But there were a few problems with it. First of all, in order to describe some things that Gabriel couldn't see because he is sleeping the book would head hop to a Third Person Omniscient point of view. It didn't do this too often. And it wasn't too badly done; I just like consistency, so...
There were a few confusing scenes that were hard to follow. An example is the train scene when it was being attacked. It wasn't too bad, but I did wonder about a few things.
There were a few things that didn't get tied up at the end. Like there was a mention of a daughter being born of one of the three seers and then it cut to the next scene and never emphasize more on that. And then there was all the people and creatures trying to catch Gabriel, but yet, it just stopped at the end? I think it needed to say something more about that, maybe a little.
There were also a few inconsistencies.
Content in Book:
1. Violence. (Hand-to-hand combat. Pushing people. With swords, knives, arrows, guns, spears, and other weapons. Mentions of blood, semi-detailed; sometimes described like worms rolling down, also described as blood. People dying. Creatures trying to kill people. Some descriptions of someone raking their nails on their skin until they bled. Broken bones. Battles. Etc.)
2. Magic.
3. Description of people mind controlling other people to cause them to fight and kill their friends.
4. Mythical creatures.
5. Some scary creatures that are violent and try to kill people. Such as ghostlike creatures and some skeleton-like creatures.
6. Lock picking. Selling things at the black market.
7. Slavery.
Who I Would Recommend This Book Too:
Those who like fantasy stories with strong families, modern technology, and a wonderful sense of awe and adventure. GO READ THE BOOK!!!!
Will I Continue With The Next Book In The Series???
YES!!! LIKE WHEN WILL IT COME OUT!?! I NEED IT IN MY LIFE!!!
September 27, 2023
I can easily say that The Book of Secrets is unlike any fantasy I've ever read before.
This powerful sibling story didn't buy into any obvious tropes of the genre, which was both surprising and refreshing. The characters and their relationships were fascinating. I'm not sure quite how to word this without it sounding negative (which isn't my intention AT ALL!), but I felt out of step with our narrator, Gabriel, and also his sister, Ren. Their emotions and motives were so hidden and twisted that I could never predict their reactions to things or what their next moves would be. Initially infuriating, I ended up loving this very unreliability because it kept me on my toes!
And Gabriel, Ren, Hollis, and Patch...they are beautiful, broken, healing, growing, learning characters - the secret that brings The Book of Secrets to life. They made me WANT to read their story, and I'm so glad I did!
This powerful sibling story didn't buy into any obvious tropes of the genre, which was both surprising and refreshing. The characters and their relationships were fascinating. I'm not sure quite how to word this without it sounding negative (which isn't my intention AT ALL!), but I felt out of step with our narrator, Gabriel, and also his sister, Ren. Their emotions and motives were so hidden and twisted that I could never predict their reactions to things or what their next moves would be. Initially infuriating, I ended up loving this very unreliability because it kept me on my toes!
And Gabriel, Ren, Hollis, and Patch...they are beautiful, broken, healing, growing, learning characters - the secret that brings The Book of Secrets to life. They made me WANT to read their story, and I'm so glad I did!
January 3, 2020
I didn't think I was going to enjoy this book as much as I did. The beginning was confusing with all these names thrown at me and the world-building was very difficult to get used to as it was a mix of various types of fantasies that I had trouble following. Took me forever to get through the first couple of chapters.
That being said, once past that hurdle, the rest of the book was a breeze. Much like the blurb states, this book is indeed unapologetic. If I had to describe it in a word, it would be blunt. The author does not hesitate to get down to the root core of her characters or her world and manages to present it in a clear light that the reader can relate to and understand. I couldn't stand Ren; I still don't really care for her, but I liked her character arc in the end. Gabriel seemed much older than he was, which was a bit confusing at first. All in all, the story is very enjoyable and hard to put down once you get into it. Great work!
That being said, once past that hurdle, the rest of the book was a breeze. Much like the blurb states, this book is indeed unapologetic. If I had to describe it in a word, it would be blunt. The author does not hesitate to get down to the root core of her characters or her world and manages to present it in a clear light that the reader can relate to and understand. I couldn't stand Ren; I still don't really care for her, but I liked her character arc in the end. Gabriel seemed much older than he was, which was a bit confusing at first. All in all, the story is very enjoyable and hard to put down once you get into it. Great work!
August 20, 2019
Nighthags and wolfdragons and shrugcats, oh my! I had the privilege of reading a pre-release of this book and was only asked to leave a review. I read some fantasy, it is one of the genres I like, but I don't devour it like some people. But I believe fantasy lovers will devour this book and any in the series that follow. I enjoyed this imaginative world, and the well-defined characters reminded me of a cross between A Wrinkle in Time meets the Chronicles of Narnia. The writing was vivid and descriptive, action-packed and suspenseful. Appropriate for intermediate and high schoolers, I believe this is the beginning of a soon-to-be-popular series. Stay tuned. This author is one to watch.
June 11, 2020
Such a cute, original children's fantasy. Only took so long because I read ebook version and kept losing my place.
Clean and highly recommended to all loves of fantasy.
Clean and highly recommended to all loves of fantasy.
June 20, 2019
It is not often I find fantasy books this well-written, laugh-out-loud humorous, fast-paced, atmospheric and vivid. The Book of Secrets makes use of clever wordplay, consistent world-building and an all-pervasive sense of wonder. This novel takes a headlong approach to fantasy, launching you into the world quickly and thoroughly. I found the characters engaging and the environment thick with imagery. I became so immersed in the story that the sense of place took over my awareness of my surroundings. This is a book where the details matter. An accumulation of precise detail, even during action scenes, shows the skill of the author, who has a rhythmic narration.
Right away, the reader will recognize many fantasy tropes, like magical creatures and magical books, far-fetched contraptions, and frolicsome communities of wizarding riff-raff, but as you read on, I think you will realize that the author puts her own spin on things. There is nothing wrong with fashioning a world resembling the ones we have seen elsewhere, in bits and pieces. It makes the setting relatable and approachable. It actually helps to visualize the facets quickly, knowing what a troll looks like, for instance, without having to be told.
The sentences are on the longer side, but the author’s command of language is such that there was never a lack of clarity or precision. The action flows smoothly, but there is enough dialogue to create organic scenes, unexpected intense sequences, and heartfelt moments. The sense of humor throughout is like nothing I’ve seen before. At first it reminded me of Terry Pratchett but it emanates from every inch of the page and isn’t quite as satirical. The world is illuminated by light-hearted touches, and the characters blend right in with it.
You can quote any paragraph from the book and immediately see that the varied sentence structure, rich plethora of nouns and action verbs combine for a rewarding reading experience. What is important for me is the experience of reading a story. The story can take all kinds of twists and turns, many of which I won’t be able to remember in the long run, but what sticks with me is how I felt while reading it. If it allowed me to escape the mundane everyday universe, I consider it a successful piece of writing.
Perhaps what is most relatable about this story are the characters. I’ve found that a lot of novels these days have boring children in them. Since when do kids sit still, quiet, only occasionally getting up to antics? The children characters in Book of Secrets are depicted like living, breathing kids, who gallop and fib, freak out and react to the enchanting world around them. In this way they are endearing and realistic.
I plan to read other books this author writes in the future.
Right away, the reader will recognize many fantasy tropes, like magical creatures and magical books, far-fetched contraptions, and frolicsome communities of wizarding riff-raff, but as you read on, I think you will realize that the author puts her own spin on things. There is nothing wrong with fashioning a world resembling the ones we have seen elsewhere, in bits and pieces. It makes the setting relatable and approachable. It actually helps to visualize the facets quickly, knowing what a troll looks like, for instance, without having to be told.
The sentences are on the longer side, but the author’s command of language is such that there was never a lack of clarity or precision. The action flows smoothly, but there is enough dialogue to create organic scenes, unexpected intense sequences, and heartfelt moments. The sense of humor throughout is like nothing I’ve seen before. At first it reminded me of Terry Pratchett but it emanates from every inch of the page and isn’t quite as satirical. The world is illuminated by light-hearted touches, and the characters blend right in with it.
You can quote any paragraph from the book and immediately see that the varied sentence structure, rich plethora of nouns and action verbs combine for a rewarding reading experience. What is important for me is the experience of reading a story. The story can take all kinds of twists and turns, many of which I won’t be able to remember in the long run, but what sticks with me is how I felt while reading it. If it allowed me to escape the mundane everyday universe, I consider it a successful piece of writing.
Perhaps what is most relatable about this story are the characters. I’ve found that a lot of novels these days have boring children in them. Since when do kids sit still, quiet, only occasionally getting up to antics? The children characters in Book of Secrets are depicted like living, breathing kids, who gallop and fib, freak out and react to the enchanting world around them. In this way they are endearing and realistic.
I plan to read other books this author writes in the future.
October 29, 2023
New Review (2023)
An Epic Fantasy Adventure!
I am so SO glad that I finally got back to reread this! Looking back over my old review I'm of the same opinion for the most part, but there's one major difference and that would be my overall enjoyment of the book. I liked it pretty well before but stopping and restarting a book really can dampen your reading experience. I feel like I not only had more fun reading, but I also got more out of the book this time around.
The Cover: Perfectly captures the magical qualities! Plus, it has a book :)
The Writing: Whimsy and creative! I enjoyed the modern medieval/fantasy style. There's things like trolls, wolfdragons, and seers but there's also trains and aircraft. There were a couple hiccups with flow and transitioning to a different setting but overall, I really liked the writing. There's humor and random details here and there that make the story come to life.
The Characters: Ooohhh, I loved the siblings!! Their interactions were very believable. Hollis is still my favorite :) John's story tho...I cried.
The Plot: A quest to keep a mysterious stone and book out of the wrong hands and save the world before dinner. Okay, maybe not before dinner but it just sounded right to include that. Fast-paced and engaging! Between the characters and the adventure, it was hard to not enjoy this. There was a bit of time travel that appealed to me.
The Themes/Messages: Family is no small thing.
The Romance: I don't believe there was any romance and if there was, it was squeaky clean.
Content Warnings: Magical elements include seers and witches (minor). Mild violence and action. Death and injuries.
Overall: 4 stars!! As stated, I'm so glad I read this again! Especially in a tighter time frame. That really helped. Already started the next book!
P.S.- I've changed my mind. I care deeply about a certain character's demise.
----------
First Review (2019):
When I found out that my online/writing buddy was publishing a book, I was so excited, both for her and to read it. I started this book back in September and took it with me on a road trip. I got about halfway through but when I got back home life happened. I had a book I was already working on, other books I was reading, and I set The Book of Secrets aside for a bit, thinking I could just come back to it like that. Nope. I'd been away longer than I realized, and I'd forgotten important names and information. So I restarted it and read through it.
I have several things I love about this book. First and foremost, I absolutely love how the author briefly mentions a creature with little explanation, such as a Yuki and a Sauravis, like they're everyday creatures you'd see and it's not out of the norm. That shows how real this world and it's beings are to the author and that in turn makes it real to the reader. When I think of fantasy, my mind automatically goes to a medieval/Middle Earth setting so I found it unique that this fantasy world had some modern touches like telephones and vehicles.
I also loved the siblings and how they interacted. I got several chuckles from the dialogue between them. I think my favorite was Hollis. He's independent, energetic, brave, willing to befriend a wolf dragon of all things, and far older than his years. The family has an abundance of dark secrets and I have a feeling that we're barely scratched the surface.
There wasn't much I didn't like except for the unanswered questions. I hope these questions are answered in the rest of the series.
Overall, this was a very fun, whimsical and enjoyable read. I found a lot of the quotes very quotable and meaningful, especially from Brim. Highly recommend if you're a fantasy enthusiast and are looking for a fresh, clean and fun read.
P.S- is it bad that I wasn't upset by a certain character's passing? Because I wasn't. At all.
An Epic Fantasy Adventure!
I am so SO glad that I finally got back to reread this! Looking back over my old review I'm of the same opinion for the most part, but there's one major difference and that would be my overall enjoyment of the book. I liked it pretty well before but stopping and restarting a book really can dampen your reading experience. I feel like I not only had more fun reading, but I also got more out of the book this time around.
The Cover: Perfectly captures the magical qualities! Plus, it has a book :)
The Writing: Whimsy and creative! I enjoyed the modern medieval/fantasy style. There's things like trolls, wolfdragons, and seers but there's also trains and aircraft. There were a couple hiccups with flow and transitioning to a different setting but overall, I really liked the writing. There's humor and random details here and there that make the story come to life.
The Characters: Ooohhh, I loved the siblings!! Their interactions were very believable. Hollis is still my favorite :) John's story tho...I cried.
The Plot: A quest to keep a mysterious stone and book out of the wrong hands and save the world before dinner. Okay, maybe not before dinner but it just sounded right to include that. Fast-paced and engaging! Between the characters and the adventure, it was hard to not enjoy this. There was a bit of time travel that appealed to me.
The Themes/Messages: Family is no small thing.
The Romance: I don't believe there was any romance and if there was, it was squeaky clean.
Content Warnings: Magical elements include seers and witches (minor). Mild violence and action. Death and injuries.
Overall: 4 stars!! As stated, I'm so glad I read this again! Especially in a tighter time frame. That really helped. Already started the next book!
P.S.- I've changed my mind. I care deeply about a certain character's demise.
----------
First Review (2019):
When I found out that my online/writing buddy was publishing a book, I was so excited, both for her and to read it. I started this book back in September and took it with me on a road trip. I got about halfway through but when I got back home life happened. I had a book I was already working on, other books I was reading, and I set The Book of Secrets aside for a bit, thinking I could just come back to it like that. Nope. I'd been away longer than I realized, and I'd forgotten important names and information. So I restarted it and read through it.
I have several things I love about this book. First and foremost, I absolutely love how the author briefly mentions a creature with little explanation, such as a Yuki and a Sauravis, like they're everyday creatures you'd see and it's not out of the norm. That shows how real this world and it's beings are to the author and that in turn makes it real to the reader. When I think of fantasy, my mind automatically goes to a medieval/Middle Earth setting so I found it unique that this fantasy world had some modern touches like telephones and vehicles.
I also loved the siblings and how they interacted. I got several chuckles from the dialogue between them. I think my favorite was Hollis. He's independent, energetic, brave, willing to befriend a wolf dragon of all things, and far older than his years. The family has an abundance of dark secrets and I have a feeling that we're barely scratched the surface.
There wasn't much I didn't like except for the unanswered questions. I hope these questions are answered in the rest of the series.
Overall, this was a very fun, whimsical and enjoyable read. I found a lot of the quotes very quotable and meaningful, especially from Brim. Highly recommend if you're a fantasy enthusiast and are looking for a fresh, clean and fun read.
P.S- is it bad that I wasn't upset by a certain character's passing? Because I wasn't. At all.
March 11, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: The Book of Secrets
Author: M.L. Little
Book Series: Seventh Realm Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: August 15, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (death, slight gore, some trauma, and war mentioned)
Publisher: Black Rose Writing
Pages: 232
Amazon Link
Synopsis: After Gabriel Draven smuggles home the Stone of the Seven Realms, his fear of facing consequences launches him and his oddball family on a rollicking run for their lives across the world they only thought they knew. As his journey takes him out of his realm and into another, Gabriel discovers that the deepest mystery lies at the heart of his own family, and he must do whatever it takes to find his way back home.
Strong and unapologetic, full of vivid, well-timed simile and lilting rhythm, bright with humor, at times bursting into a depth of pure simplistic beauty, The Book of Secrets looks far beyond the typical medieval swords-and-sorcery and, instead, introduces mystical creatures, absurd new worlds, and, at its heart, a hymn of praise to the complicated bond of siblinghood.
Review: I thought this was a well done read! The book did well with the world building and the character development. The book is well suited for younger readers and the writing is very engaging and simplistic, but all-consuming.
The only issues I had with the book is that sometimes the world building became too much, like there was too much detail in some areas. The pacing was also fairly slow in my opinion. The book also alludes to Christianity teachings and while I didn’t really care I did want to point it out for readers who don’t want their kids or themselves to read that.
Verdict: A very well done read!
Book: The Book of Secrets
Author: M.L. Little
Book Series: Seventh Realm Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: August 15, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (death, slight gore, some trauma, and war mentioned)
Publisher: Black Rose Writing
Pages: 232
Amazon Link
Synopsis: After Gabriel Draven smuggles home the Stone of the Seven Realms, his fear of facing consequences launches him and his oddball family on a rollicking run for their lives across the world they only thought they knew. As his journey takes him out of his realm and into another, Gabriel discovers that the deepest mystery lies at the heart of his own family, and he must do whatever it takes to find his way back home.
Strong and unapologetic, full of vivid, well-timed simile and lilting rhythm, bright with humor, at times bursting into a depth of pure simplistic beauty, The Book of Secrets looks far beyond the typical medieval swords-and-sorcery and, instead, introduces mystical creatures, absurd new worlds, and, at its heart, a hymn of praise to the complicated bond of siblinghood.
Review: I thought this was a well done read! The book did well with the world building and the character development. The book is well suited for younger readers and the writing is very engaging and simplistic, but all-consuming.
The only issues I had with the book is that sometimes the world building became too much, like there was too much detail in some areas. The pacing was also fairly slow in my opinion. The book also alludes to Christianity teachings and while I didn’t really care I did want to point it out for readers who don’t want their kids or themselves to read that.
Verdict: A very well done read!
June 28, 2019
This. Was. Fantastic.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect about this novel. Honestly, I was worried it’d be too similar to a series I didn’t like which shall remain unnamed for now.
Thankfully, this book was not. I loved it.
M. L. Little does an amazing of balancing humorous moments with emotional, even heartbreaking scenes. I was laughing my head off in the beginning, yet was close to tears by the end of the book.
But what about the characters?
I absolutely loved Gabriel. I related to him on so many levels, but I can’t fully explain why, because I’d be getting into spoiler territory. His struggles are something I haven’t seen in many books before and I appreciate this author bringing them to light.
I love his siblings as well. They all feel real and again, very relatable.
One of my favorite aspects about this book though, is the world. Sure, it might seem like your traditional fantasy world, but oh no, it’s not. They drive cars. They drink milkshakes. And thank goodness, they don’t eat stew. It’s very whimsical and I love it.
I’m eagerly awaiting the next book and praying that my heart won’t be broken even more by the end of it. Knowing this author though...I probably will be.
I received a free ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions in this review are my own.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect about this novel. Honestly, I was worried it’d be too similar to a series I didn’t like which shall remain unnamed for now.
Thankfully, this book was not. I loved it.
M. L. Little does an amazing of balancing humorous moments with emotional, even heartbreaking scenes. I was laughing my head off in the beginning, yet was close to tears by the end of the book.
But what about the characters?
I absolutely loved Gabriel. I related to him on so many levels, but I can’t fully explain why, because I’d be getting into spoiler territory. His struggles are something I haven’t seen in many books before and I appreciate this author bringing them to light.
I love his siblings as well. They all feel real and again, very relatable.
One of my favorite aspects about this book though, is the world. Sure, it might seem like your traditional fantasy world, but oh no, it’s not. They drive cars. They drink milkshakes. And thank goodness, they don’t eat stew. It’s very whimsical and I love it.
I’m eagerly awaiting the next book and praying that my heart won’t be broken even more by the end of it. Knowing this author though...I probably will be.
I received a free ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions in this review are my own.
May 4, 2020
I was thrilled when @mllittleauthor contacted me about reviewing her novel The Book of Secrets and am excited to finally share my review!
.
.
.
Quite by accident, Gabriel Draven comes into the possession of two mysterious objects: a stone and The Book of Secrets. Together these two unleash a series of adventures -including different realms- Gabriel never saw coming, while revealing secrets about his family that have remained hidden for years.
.
.
.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I discovered this tale involves witches and seers as I don’t read a lot of books containing spells and magic, but very little of that is found in this story. Instead, there is rollicking adventure, tantalizing secrets, and above all, the mysterious bond of family. I dislike reading on my kindle, however, I could not put this book down and voraciously swiped left to find out what happened next. I am eagerly anticipating Book Two! .
.
.
I received a free e-book in exchange for my honest review.
.
.
.
Quite by accident, Gabriel Draven comes into the possession of two mysterious objects: a stone and The Book of Secrets. Together these two unleash a series of adventures -including different realms- Gabriel never saw coming, while revealing secrets about his family that have remained hidden for years.
.
.
.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I discovered this tale involves witches and seers as I don’t read a lot of books containing spells and magic, but very little of that is found in this story. Instead, there is rollicking adventure, tantalizing secrets, and above all, the mysterious bond of family. I dislike reading on my kindle, however, I could not put this book down and voraciously swiped left to find out what happened next. I am eagerly anticipating Book Two! .
.
.
I received a free e-book in exchange for my honest review.
April 17, 2023
This book was such a mix of magic and technology, ancient and modern, fantasy and “realistic.” It got better the further I read. One can draw a lot of spiritual allegory from the story, and I enjoyed the sibling dynamics.
July 28, 2019
I've been in a bit of a reading slump lately where I've struggled to finish books. The Book of Secrets was not one of those. From the very beginning, you're flung into this wild, zany world filled with purple cats, trolls with briefcases, swords and radios, men who vanish into thin air, and a family of siblings that run as wild as all kids wish they could.
The Dravens are dripping with secrets and I had to force myself to read slower because I was missing things in my haste to see what big family secret would be revealed next. Some of them were explained while others left me grumbling over having to wait for the next book. All of the Dravens were distinct and memorable and the depiction of sibling relationships had me laughing and rolling my eyes at their accuracy.
The Book of Secrets reminded me of all the best parts of the books I read in middle school or early high school. Adventure, fantasy, siblings, humor, all of it. It wasn't just cotton candy fluffy-fun, however. There's an emotional depth to this book that I didn't expect from the tone at first, but was pleasantly surprised to find. Little isn't afraid to dwell on the reality of how life-changing (and even scarring) an adventure can be. Gabriel at the end was a boy who had taken a big, sudden leap in growing up compared to the boy he was in the beginning. The whole ending had a genuine bittersweetness that I loved. This book was everything and nothing like I expected and I'm looking forward to seeing what other secrets the next book will have.
The Dravens are dripping with secrets and I had to force myself to read slower because I was missing things in my haste to see what big family secret would be revealed next. Some of them were explained while others left me grumbling over having to wait for the next book. All of the Dravens were distinct and memorable and the depiction of sibling relationships had me laughing and rolling my eyes at their accuracy.
The Book of Secrets reminded me of all the best parts of the books I read in middle school or early high school. Adventure, fantasy, siblings, humor, all of it. It wasn't just cotton candy fluffy-fun, however. There's an emotional depth to this book that I didn't expect from the tone at first, but was pleasantly surprised to find. Little isn't afraid to dwell on the reality of how life-changing (and even scarring) an adventure can be. Gabriel at the end was a boy who had taken a big, sudden leap in growing up compared to the boy he was in the beginning. The whole ending had a genuine bittersweetness that I loved. This book was everything and nothing like I expected and I'm looking forward to seeing what other secrets the next book will have.
June 23, 2019
“Fear is the realest thing in the world sometimes. But it is not real at all compared to the miracle that will come at the end.” - The Book Of Secrets, M.L. Little
The Book Of Secrets is so much more than just a fantasy novel. It is a powerful mix of loyalty, courage, and faith that tells a meaningful message. That paired with the unique creatures and slight dystopian feel makes this one of my favorites if it’s genre.
I really enjoyed how each of the Draven siblings had their own special strengths and quirky personalities. I just couldn’t help but love them all, Patch especially! I laughed out loud at the sarcasm that passed between them. It was a nice touch that really brought them to life.
It was the gorgeous cover drew me in, but ultimately it was the writing that made me stay. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
*Disclaimer - I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Book Of Secrets is so much more than just a fantasy novel. It is a powerful mix of loyalty, courage, and faith that tells a meaningful message. That paired with the unique creatures and slight dystopian feel makes this one of my favorites if it’s genre.
I really enjoyed how each of the Draven siblings had their own special strengths and quirky personalities. I just couldn’t help but love them all, Patch especially! I laughed out loud at the sarcasm that passed between them. It was a nice touch that really brought them to life.
It was the gorgeous cover drew me in, but ultimately it was the writing that made me stay. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
*Disclaimer - I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 9, 2019
Rereading a book is like visiting friends you haven't seen in a long time. In this case, babysitting the epic Draven sibings in a magical steampunk-like world. Not many authors succeed in bringing complex (political) issues to live through the eyes of children, but Melissa is one of those rare authors who writes children as children, not adults in small bodies. Characterisation drives the plot full of remarkable creatures and unexpected, even dramatic, plottwists.
One of my pet peeves of modern fantasy is that readers are thrown into a world without getting any explanation, and more often than not, it leads to confusing stories that I rarely enjoy. But Melissa scores points for sprinkling bits of information throughout the narration that help the reader connect to the world and the characters. Thank you!
And also extra kudos for introducing Patch to my life. What a kid!
One of my pet peeves of modern fantasy is that readers are thrown into a world without getting any explanation, and more often than not, it leads to confusing stories that I rarely enjoy. But Melissa scores points for sprinkling bits of information throughout the narration that help the reader connect to the world and the characters. Thank you!
And also extra kudos for introducing Patch to my life. What a kid!
July 31, 2019
THE BOOK OF SECRETS is a gem! Loved Little’s world-building and the fantastic fantasy elements that she incorporates. I loved especially that she created creatures that have never been written about before. Everything was completely original and unique. It really picked up in the second half/later portion of the book and I read the entire second half of the book in one night, staying up until 1 am. 4 stars! The only reason it didn’t get 5 is because I didn’t feel as connected to the characters as I wanted to feel. But other than that, it is a fantastic YA fantasy perfect for anyone of all ages, and for anyone wanting a book that will expand their minds. Well done, M.L. Little!
August 13, 2019
I haven't written a review in this format in forever, but I figured that since I received a free ebook in exchange for a review (all opinions are my own, I also bought a physical copy with my own money 2/3rds of the way through the ebook, so take that for what you will), I might as well make this somewhat professional.
Ages 8+
(Depending on reading ability)
Content warnings:
Death, war, emotional trauma
Plot
When Gabriel finds a mysterious and magical stone and an equally mysterious and magical book that has a suspiciously perfectly-shaped hole inside to fit the stone, he is swept on an adventure all across the land with his older sister Ren and two younger brothers Hollis and Patch. Will Gabriel be able to overcome his fear and save his family and land, or will he give into his fear and reject his destiny?
Gabriel and his siblings hardly stay in one place for very long, so the setting changed quite a bit, making the book quite a fast-paced adventure. For the most part, it worked, and I wasn't confused as to where the characters were or why. However, there were a few places at which I wish Little would have dwelled on a bit longer to make certain emotional scenes make that much more of an impact.
4/5
Characters
Gabriel, our main character, is a young boy who fears losing what he loves so dearly--his family. His fear keeps him from enjoying life with the people he loves. An emotionally complex and compelling lead, he was easily my favorite from the very beginning.
Ren, Gabriel's older sister, my favorite second only to Gabriel himself, is a mysterious and traumatized young woman. Quiet, yet protective, she loves with a depth only someone who has been through as much as she has could muster. I would love to read a book from her point of view, but how her character was utilized in this book was perfect.
The Book of Secrets has a startlingly large cast for its length. I did find myself getting confused between a few characters (Dale and Darius being the worst culprits), but for the most part I was able to keep everyone straight. Hollis, Patch, and Ellowyn were among my favorites of the secondary characters.
4.5/5
Writing
Little writes in endearingly simplistic yet rapturous prose. There were so many quotes I wanted to highlight (which I most certainly will do when I get my physical copy!) and copy into my bullet journal or something.
The Book of Secrets is written in a unique style. It's written somewhat like a fairy tale, but with a much larger focus on the characters. The style took some getting used to, but once I embraced it, it became clear that the book would have suffered were it written any other way.
5/5
Emotions
While I never wept or teared up (well, maybe just once...), I did feel a strong connection to Gabriel and Ren that few books are capable of achieving. When they suffered, I felt that suffering right along with them. When they were happy, I felt that joy too.
4/5
Themes
The Book of Secrets has an allegory to Christianity in Brim, who plays a similar role as Jesus in our world. However, a non-Christian could just as easily pick up this book and gather just as much depth as a Christian would.
More than that, The Book of Secrets is about love and courage. We cannot allow our love to become a cage that prevents us from enjoying our lives with the people we love so dearly. It's a profound message I hardly see in books, especially middle grade novels. (I hesitate to call this book middle grade--it has a timeless quality similar to that of The Chronicles of Narnia, able to connect with readers of any age.)
The themes are consistent with--and driven by--Gabriel's character arc.
5/5
Recommendations and Final Rating
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a unique book about the boundless love between siblings and a young boy who would've rather stayed at home instead of going on an adventure if it meant keeping his family safe. So, basically, everyone.
I look forward to whatever Little puts out in the future and wish her the very best in her writing career. I hope we'll be able to find out soon what happens next to Gabriel, Ren, and all the rest!
9/10, or 4.5 stars out of 5
Ages 8+
(Depending on reading ability)
Content warnings:
Death, war, emotional trauma
Plot
When Gabriel finds a mysterious and magical stone and an equally mysterious and magical book that has a suspiciously perfectly-shaped hole inside to fit the stone, he is swept on an adventure all across the land with his older sister Ren and two younger brothers Hollis and Patch. Will Gabriel be able to overcome his fear and save his family and land, or will he give into his fear and reject his destiny?
Gabriel and his siblings hardly stay in one place for very long, so the setting changed quite a bit, making the book quite a fast-paced adventure. For the most part, it worked, and I wasn't confused as to where the characters were or why. However, there were a few places at which I wish Little would have dwelled on a bit longer to make certain emotional scenes make that much more of an impact.
4/5
Characters
Gabriel, our main character, is a young boy who fears losing what he loves so dearly--his family. His fear keeps him from enjoying life with the people he loves. An emotionally complex and compelling lead, he was easily my favorite from the very beginning.
Ren, Gabriel's older sister, my favorite second only to Gabriel himself, is a mysterious and traumatized young woman. Quiet, yet protective, she loves with a depth only someone who has been through as much as she has could muster. I would love to read a book from her point of view, but how her character was utilized in this book was perfect.
The Book of Secrets has a startlingly large cast for its length. I did find myself getting confused between a few characters (Dale and Darius being the worst culprits), but for the most part I was able to keep everyone straight. Hollis, Patch, and Ellowyn were among my favorites of the secondary characters.
4.5/5
Writing
Little writes in endearingly simplistic yet rapturous prose. There were so many quotes I wanted to highlight (which I most certainly will do when I get my physical copy!) and copy into my bullet journal or something.
The Book of Secrets is written in a unique style. It's written somewhat like a fairy tale, but with a much larger focus on the characters. The style took some getting used to, but once I embraced it, it became clear that the book would have suffered were it written any other way.
5/5
Emotions
While I never wept or teared up (well, maybe just once...), I did feel a strong connection to Gabriel and Ren that few books are capable of achieving. When they suffered, I felt that suffering right along with them. When they were happy, I felt that joy too.
4/5
Themes
The Book of Secrets has an allegory to Christianity in Brim, who plays a similar role as Jesus in our world. However, a non-Christian could just as easily pick up this book and gather just as much depth as a Christian would.
More than that, The Book of Secrets is about love and courage. We cannot allow our love to become a cage that prevents us from enjoying our lives with the people we love so dearly. It's a profound message I hardly see in books, especially middle grade novels. (I hesitate to call this book middle grade--it has a timeless quality similar to that of The Chronicles of Narnia, able to connect with readers of any age.)
The themes are consistent with--and driven by--Gabriel's character arc.
5/5
Recommendations and Final Rating
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a unique book about the boundless love between siblings and a young boy who would've rather stayed at home instead of going on an adventure if it meant keeping his family safe. So, basically, everyone.
I look forward to whatever Little puts out in the future and wish her the very best in her writing career. I hope we'll be able to find out soon what happens next to Gabriel, Ren, and all the rest!
9/10, or 4.5 stars out of 5
October 16, 2019
This book started out being weird. Which was okay. I knew I was being thrown into a fantasy world and I assumed it would get better. And it did. Until like the last chapter or so. Then I felt like it got really weird again.
November 14, 2021
This story of young teens who don't fit in, and a family torn apart, is powerful and quirky. The kids are a little strange and oddballs to the people in their town. But one magical potentially dangerous book turns their lives upside down as they come to realize something dark is there and they must stop it.
This story has complex world building, much like the Chronicles of Narnia and allegory that isn't preachy but packs a punch of honor and truth. There are a lot of characters in this book which means this might turn into a nice long series! #win This mashup of swords and fantasy creatures alongside contemporary items was delightful, bringing the otherworldly right into our midst. Though the story faces dark themes, it is always experienced with a glimmer of hope and possibility.
This story has complex world building, much like the Chronicles of Narnia and allegory that isn't preachy but packs a punch of honor and truth. There are a lot of characters in this book which means this might turn into a nice long series! #win This mashup of swords and fantasy creatures alongside contemporary items was delightful, bringing the otherworldly right into our midst. Though the story faces dark themes, it is always experienced with a glimmer of hope and possibility.
August 18, 2019
I found this debut YA fiction to be delightful, adventurous, and very relatable especially for the YA reader. I found Gabriel to be a complex character that starts as a boy that has either been our brother, friend, or relative that we all know: mischievous, adventurous, impetuous, yet very lovable. I found the plot to be a steady pace and full of mind-bending experiences that left me glued to the page. I enjoyed the fantastical world, creatures, names and medieval type language because it was enough to give it the flavor, but not be so out of the box that the reader is lost. I felt part of the journey, and I understood the emotion our characters felt. Overall, the quality of writing, plot, and character development was of the best kind of quality. I highly recommend this one for the YA reader, but I feel the adult reader looking for an adventure would enjoy this book as well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.
August 17, 2019
@kidlitexchange #partner
Thank you to the publisher @blackrosewriting and the author @mllittleauthor for sharing an advance copy of The Book of Secrets with the #kidlitexchange network. This book was released yesterday!
Gabriel picks up a mysterious stone left behind by an even more mysterious traveler. This stone just happens to be the Stone of the Seven Realms which when combined with the magical Book of Secrets he borrows from the local bookstore, he unknowingly launches himself and his family into a journey that will change their world as they know it.
The Book of Secrets is full of mystery, adventure, and unique creatures. The author has created a unique fantasy world that is rich in description and unlike any other I have read. The world is a mixture of medieval weapons, structure, and magic and modern day technology like planes, trains, and cars. The characters are witty and the narrative is full of humor and jokes and the author has a penchant for similes.
Thank you to the publisher @blackrosewriting and the author @mllittleauthor for sharing an advance copy of The Book of Secrets with the #kidlitexchange network. This book was released yesterday!
Gabriel picks up a mysterious stone left behind by an even more mysterious traveler. This stone just happens to be the Stone of the Seven Realms which when combined with the magical Book of Secrets he borrows from the local bookstore, he unknowingly launches himself and his family into a journey that will change their world as they know it.
The Book of Secrets is full of mystery, adventure, and unique creatures. The author has created a unique fantasy world that is rich in description and unlike any other I have read. The world is a mixture of medieval weapons, structure, and magic and modern day technology like planes, trains, and cars. The characters are witty and the narrative is full of humor and jokes and the author has a penchant for similes.
February 28, 2023
Is It Modern Or Ancient?
When I finished the book, all I could say was Whew. Great story. It's a mixture of a fantasy world and a real one, which was confusing at times. The Book of Secrets is magic, but the character's world has telephones, trains, airplanes, guns, tanks, and cars.
I loved the cast of characters. And there is a big cast. Some you trust right away and some you aren't so sure. Makes good suspense. Since this is part of a trilogy, you know there is more to the story. This first part doesn't leave you hanging like some do. It's a fast paced read with a lot of action, good relationships, and an element of hope.
When I finished the book, all I could say was Whew. Great story. It's a mixture of a fantasy world and a real one, which was confusing at times. The Book of Secrets is magic, but the character's world has telephones, trains, airplanes, guns, tanks, and cars.
I loved the cast of characters. And there is a big cast. Some you trust right away and some you aren't so sure. Makes good suspense. Since this is part of a trilogy, you know there is more to the story. This first part doesn't leave you hanging like some do. It's a fast paced read with a lot of action, good relationships, and an element of hope.
May 27, 2019
*** Contains Spoilers ***
The world is well-built and I like the multiple universes idea.
Gabriel, like the rest of the siblings, is very relatable and is someone I would enjoy following on future adventures.
For me, the beginning is a very slow burn. If the narrative had begun when Gabriel meets Edem, I would have been much more interested at the get-go.
I was also disappointed by the lack of nighthags and few moments of Rex Bellum's presence outside of references by other characters explaining who Rex is. I was under the impression that Rex was the main antagonist, so the small amount of time he's in the book makes him seem much less threatening than his reputation makes him out to be.
My favorite character of the book was, by head and shoulders, Gabriel's sister, Ren. She is much more active than Gabriel, has more built-in drama, and I felt like she was better developed than Gabriel (but this could be because of the focus of the story on the mystery of their mother and her relationship to Ren). A book in this narrative universe told from Ren's perspective would be immensely entertaining for me.
The world is well-built and I like the multiple universes idea.
Gabriel, like the rest of the siblings, is very relatable and is someone I would enjoy following on future adventures.
For me, the beginning is a very slow burn. If the narrative had begun when Gabriel meets Edem, I would have been much more interested at the get-go.
I was also disappointed by the lack of nighthags and few moments of Rex Bellum's presence outside of references by other characters explaining who Rex is. I was under the impression that Rex was the main antagonist, so the small amount of time he's in the book makes him seem much less threatening than his reputation makes him out to be.
My favorite character of the book was, by head and shoulders, Gabriel's sister, Ren. She is much more active than Gabriel, has more built-in drama, and I felt like she was better developed than Gabriel (but this could be because of the focus of the story on the mystery of their mother and her relationship to Ren). A book in this narrative universe told from Ren's perspective would be immensely entertaining for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2019
I.
Loved.
This.
Book.
This book is unique, sweet, magical, deep, and perfect for anyone 10+. 10/10 will definitely read again.
Loved.
This.
Book.
This book is unique, sweet, magical, deep, and perfect for anyone 10+. 10/10 will definitely read again.
September 13, 2023
I absolutely adored everything about this: the magic system, the characters, the complex family dynamic, the humor, the angst! Fantasy done right.
December 8, 2022
The Book of Secrets isn’t an easy book to review. There’s so much to cover in this rich story that I’m going to have to break it down a little. I wasn’t even sure whether to rate it four stars or five, so I ended up going with 4 ½ . Giving stars to a book is subjective. It’s based on more than prose, plot, and characters. A large part of it is simply “Did I enjoy it and how much?” I will say, if you are looking for a story that is whimsical yet compelling with a large cast of memorable and likeable characters, search no further.
The World
One of the things that really drew me into this story is the compelling and rich world. It just feels BIG. Even though the plot mainly takes place in a relatively small area of the world—what is known as the Glennerdells—there’s mention of other countries, of history, of even other realms not of this world. Yet the author doesn’t bog down the prose with long descriptions and irrelevant details, but rather weaves in tidbits throughout the story. The world building impressed me perhaps more than any other part of this book because as a writer myself, I find this the most complicated part of writing a novel.
The Characters
What’s a story without its characters? If I’m going to love a story, I’m going to have to love its characters. The Book of Secrets follows the point-of-view of Gabriel Draven, a thirteen year old boy, who lives with his siblings in the Backcountry. The other main characters are his older sister Ren and younger brothers Hollis and Patch. I have to say that Patch (who is only six) is my favorite. I love sibling stories, and as a mom of four, I can attest that the author did a good job of making the siblings talk, squabble, and act like children. Their interactions are fun and endearing. I wish that some of the story had been told in the point-of-view of the other siblings. I would have liked to know a little more about the motivations behind Ren and Hollis in particular.
The Plot
The Book of Secrets is a young adult novel, so as expected the plot is relatively simple and appropriate for that audience; however, it is not so immature that an adult cannot enjoy it. I find stories that appeal to a wide range some of the best. I think this book would make a good read-aloud for the whole family. I say more about the plot in my blog review.
The Prose
As a whole, the prose is engaging and easy to understand. I love the dialogue. As I already mentioned the author did great with siblings. I enjoyed their banter, squabbles, and heartwarming moments. No long descriptions slow down the story, yet I felt that the world and characters are adequately described. The pacing is fast and a lot is happening, so you really have to pay attention. At times, I found myself momentarily confused because sometimes the characters would jump quickly from one scene to another and occasionally without even a scene break as a warning. But I was never so confused that I couldn’t easily follow the story.
Usually, I prefer standalones to series, but I enjoyed this first book and plan to finish the trilogy.
For a more detailed version of this review, check out my blog: https://leannarapier.com/book-review-...
*UPDATE:
Since my review, my 13-yr-old daughter has read this book plus the other two in the trilogy. She loved them and talks about the trilogy all the time. She’s been drawing pictures of the characters.
The World
One of the things that really drew me into this story is the compelling and rich world. It just feels BIG. Even though the plot mainly takes place in a relatively small area of the world—what is known as the Glennerdells—there’s mention of other countries, of history, of even other realms not of this world. Yet the author doesn’t bog down the prose with long descriptions and irrelevant details, but rather weaves in tidbits throughout the story. The world building impressed me perhaps more than any other part of this book because as a writer myself, I find this the most complicated part of writing a novel.
The Characters
What’s a story without its characters? If I’m going to love a story, I’m going to have to love its characters. The Book of Secrets follows the point-of-view of Gabriel Draven, a thirteen year old boy, who lives with his siblings in the Backcountry. The other main characters are his older sister Ren and younger brothers Hollis and Patch. I have to say that Patch (who is only six) is my favorite. I love sibling stories, and as a mom of four, I can attest that the author did a good job of making the siblings talk, squabble, and act like children. Their interactions are fun and endearing. I wish that some of the story had been told in the point-of-view of the other siblings. I would have liked to know a little more about the motivations behind Ren and Hollis in particular.
The Plot
The Book of Secrets is a young adult novel, so as expected the plot is relatively simple and appropriate for that audience; however, it is not so immature that an adult cannot enjoy it. I find stories that appeal to a wide range some of the best. I think this book would make a good read-aloud for the whole family. I say more about the plot in my blog review.
The Prose
As a whole, the prose is engaging and easy to understand. I love the dialogue. As I already mentioned the author did great with siblings. I enjoyed their banter, squabbles, and heartwarming moments. No long descriptions slow down the story, yet I felt that the world and characters are adequately described. The pacing is fast and a lot is happening, so you really have to pay attention. At times, I found myself momentarily confused because sometimes the characters would jump quickly from one scene to another and occasionally without even a scene break as a warning. But I was never so confused that I couldn’t easily follow the story.
Usually, I prefer standalones to series, but I enjoyed this first book and plan to finish the trilogy.
For a more detailed version of this review, check out my blog: https://leannarapier.com/book-review-...
*UPDATE:
Since my review, my 13-yr-old daughter has read this book plus the other two in the trilogy. She loved them and talks about the trilogy all the time. She’s been drawing pictures of the characters.
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