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God Stones #1
The Secret Journal
A history hidden from the world. A truth long sought, but better left unfound. Will two teenagers survive the magical secrets they unearth?
Oak Island, Nova Scotia. Breanne Moore blames herself for her mother’s tragic death. So when her archaeologist father is invited on an exciting new dig, she’s determined to tag along and keep him safe. But as the mystery leads them closer to the island’s secret, Breanne’s dreams are filled with visions of a strange boy she’s never met… and a world of flaming carnage.
Petersburg, Illinois. Sixteen-year-old Garrett Turek is the unofficial leader of his fellow outcasts. Grappling with a volatile relationship with his stepfather, he avoids his home life by helping an eccentric accountant restore a historic Victorian house. But when he and his crew stumble on a crusty journal in the basement, Garrett uncovers a dead president’s key to a secret world-saving society.
As Breanne and her dad seek clues to a treasure hidden deep beneath the surface, they trigger a dangerous magic that should have stayed dormant forever. And when Garrett closes in on the truth, he’ll question everything he thought he knew and find trust in a girl from far away as they prepare to battle a dangerous foe.
Can the two would-be heroes fulfill a powerful prophecy and save the planet from destruction?
The Secret Journal is the first book in the sensational God Stones YA contemporary fantasy series. If you like unusual pairings, well-researched historical backgrounds, and heated suspense, then you’ll love Otto Schafer’s coming-of-age adventure.
Destiny awaits those brave enough to turn the page!536 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2019
177 people are currently reading
487 people want to read
About the author
Otto Schafer
20 books155 followersOtto Schafer grew up exploring the small historic town in central Illinois featured in his first work of fiction, The Secret Journal. If you visit Petersburg, Illinois you may find locations familiar from the book. You may even discover, as Otto did, that history has left behind cleverly hidden traces of magic, whispered secrets, and untold treasures.
Otto is currently working on the third book in the Wrack and Ruin series, set to release in early 2025.
He and his loving wife reside in a quiet log cabin tucked away in the woods. You can often find him sitting out back by the koi pond, whittling words into stories for his readers.
Otto is currently working on the third book in the Wrack and Ruin series, set to release in early 2025.
He and his loving wife reside in a quiet log cabin tucked away in the woods. You can often find him sitting out back by the koi pond, whittling words into stories for his readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 26, 2020
Action and adventure, mystery and intrigue, a well developed plot and solid characters. The Secret Journal has it all.
I honestly had a hard time setting it down and found my thoughts drifting to the puzzle even while the book was set down in favor of work and chores.
A hidden treasure, a dangerous magic and a powerful prophecy are the setting stones for a new YA contemporary fantasy series that will take you on a magical adventure National Treasure style and then some!
Superb characters and well-researched historical backgrounds combine with vivid action scenes and a narrative that's a pleasure to read to give you a fascinating story in the pages of which you can easily get lost.
This was quite the page turner and I'm looking forward to the sequel.
I honestly had a hard time setting it down and found my thoughts drifting to the puzzle even while the book was set down in favor of work and chores.
A hidden treasure, a dangerous magic and a powerful prophecy are the setting stones for a new YA contemporary fantasy series that will take you on a magical adventure National Treasure style and then some!
Superb characters and well-researched historical backgrounds combine with vivid action scenes and a narrative that's a pleasure to read to give you a fascinating story in the pages of which you can easily get lost.
This was quite the page turner and I'm looking forward to the sequel.
December 18, 2022
This was such a great book! I'll be honest, when I added it to my TBR list, I had not planned on reading it right away, however, I made the delightful mistake of browsing the first page...and then the second and third, which then led to several chapters, and by then, it was too late to turn back. This was a page-turner from the first page. The dual storyline keeps you dying to know what is happening, and yet, you don't want to leave the narrator you're reading... it was blissful torture! The best way I can describe this book is as a wonderful mesh-up between Indiana Jones and the Goonies with awesome page-turning writing. My TBR list isn't happy about it, but I've already downloaded the second book, which picks up right where the first book left off, and I can't wait to see what Otto brings to the rest of the series! As for TBR List, it's just gonna have to deal with it! ha ha
December 3, 2022
Edit:
Just listened to this book on audible. The narrator made this book come alive! Also after reading/listening to this book for the second go around I’m bumping it up to a solid 5 stars.
I got more out of it the second time round.
It’s a great first book for this author.
I feel like the first part of the book was a little slow and almost felt like two different books with it switching from Garrett to Breanne chapter to chapter. The transition from one to the other wasn’t bad, just confusing on how these two separate stories would mesh together.
The last half of the book it picked up pace and I couldn’t put the book down stayed up way later than I should have to finish it.
This book reminds me of a mixture Indiana jones & Guardians of the Galaxy with a dash of Karate Kid. The characters are well rounded and believable.
I can see now how the two separate story lines mesh and I’m ready to dive into Mr. Schaefer’s next book.
Just listened to this book on audible. The narrator made this book come alive! Also after reading/listening to this book for the second go around I’m bumping it up to a solid 5 stars.
I got more out of it the second time round.
It’s a great first book for this author.
I feel like the first part of the book was a little slow and almost felt like two different books with it switching from Garrett to Breanne chapter to chapter. The transition from one to the other wasn’t bad, just confusing on how these two separate stories would mesh together.
The last half of the book it picked up pace and I couldn’t put the book down stayed up way later than I should have to finish it.
This book reminds me of a mixture Indiana jones & Guardians of the Galaxy with a dash of Karate Kid. The characters are well rounded and believable.
I can see now how the two separate story lines mesh and I’m ready to dive into Mr. Schaefer’s next book.
December 15, 2022
I was beyond excited about reading this book, not really knowing what it was about I just jumped in and started reading. I'll admit I was confused about what was happening for a good amount of time. The story kept me engaged though. We follow Breanne and her father on an archeology trip, and we follow Garrett and his friends as they find an old journal. Then when the stories came together and the plot came to be I couldn't put the book down. I just had to know what happened. Of course, now I need book 2. This is an amazing story and I would recommend this to anyone.
April 3, 2021
For as long as he can remember Garrett has been training...in secret...and not just physical drills but also intelligence and weapons training. That in itself is strange enough...but even stranger is that he isn't allowed to talk about it...to anyone. He has to follow a very strict set of rules and never break them, otherwise he would face dire consequences. What is going on in this small town of Petersburg where children secretly train? What exactly are they training for?
Meanwhile, Breanne and her father, Dr. Charles Moore, have been hired to take over an archaeological dig site on Oak Island, Nova Scotia with the promise of making history. Backed by an unseen benefactor, cost is no object and everything they need, they are given. During this dig, an extraordinary treasure is unearthed and it seems the legendary Knights Templar are involved.
Breanne has an ominous feeling that they are messing with things best left alone but her family's inquisitive nature won't let it rest...so they keep going. Exactly what else will they find? Why the secret behind who this benefactor is? Why does Breanne get the feeling he knows more than he's sharing?
I LOVE stories with secret societies and most especially the Knights Templar. This one fed my love for the subject wonderfully. I also love treasure hunts and archaeological aspects in books. I am a huge fan of movies like this (Indiana Jones and The Mummy being my favorites) so any time I see books like this I try to snag them.
This is another one I finished in less than 2 days 😂😂😂 and had me up late trying to see how much farther I could get. The writing is engaging and well done and the mysterious setting, both in Petersburg and Oak Island, had me lost in the book. I can't wait for the next one because now I'm just sitting here ... curious and waiting 😂😂
A review copy was provided by the publisher. While a written review after reading was not required, I have provided one. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
Meanwhile, Breanne and her father, Dr. Charles Moore, have been hired to take over an archaeological dig site on Oak Island, Nova Scotia with the promise of making history. Backed by an unseen benefactor, cost is no object and everything they need, they are given. During this dig, an extraordinary treasure is unearthed and it seems the legendary Knights Templar are involved.
Breanne has an ominous feeling that they are messing with things best left alone but her family's inquisitive nature won't let it rest...so they keep going. Exactly what else will they find? Why the secret behind who this benefactor is? Why does Breanne get the feeling he knows more than he's sharing?
I LOVE stories with secret societies and most especially the Knights Templar. This one fed my love for the subject wonderfully. I also love treasure hunts and archaeological aspects in books. I am a huge fan of movies like this (Indiana Jones and The Mummy being my favorites) so any time I see books like this I try to snag them.
This is another one I finished in less than 2 days 😂😂😂 and had me up late trying to see how much farther I could get. The writing is engaging and well done and the mysterious setting, both in Petersburg and Oak Island, had me lost in the book. I can't wait for the next one because now I'm just sitting here ... curious and waiting 😂😂
A review copy was provided by the publisher. While a written review after reading was not required, I have provided one. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
August 4, 2020
I only meant to read the first page to get a feel for this book, thinking to read it at a later time. Well, one page turned to several, and before I knew it, I was neck deep in the story. The story is told from two distinct POV’s—a teen girl on an archeological dig with her family, and a teen boy in a small town with his group of friends. Both find themselves in the middle of a mystery, and the separate storylines left you wondering how the paths of the two parties would end up intersecting. It reminded me of the movie National Treasure, where history and mysticism intermingle. But it also reminded me of The Goonies due to the younger set of characters. I found the pacing uneven at times, but all in all an entertaining adventure.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
January 6, 2023
It's like National Treasure with the Stranger Things kids
A journal holds a secret, and it's up to seven kids to find the answers. This book has great characters, enjoyable dialogue, a stellar plot with page turning suspense. Grab some popcorn, your favorite beverage, and get comfortable because reading this book is quite the adventure.
A journal holds a secret, and it's up to seven kids to find the answers. This book has great characters, enjoyable dialogue, a stellar plot with page turning suspense. Grab some popcorn, your favorite beverage, and get comfortable because reading this book is quite the adventure.
December 9, 2022
Loveeddd the journey and the adventure!!! Couldn’t put the book down. Looking forward to read the rest of the god stones series.
September 23, 2022
In all honesty, I could not put this book down, and I finished it in two days. As soon as I was 30 pages in, I just knew I wanted to read this entire series! Schafer’s writing pulls you in. Each chapter switches between locations from Garrett, who lives in Illinois, to Breanna, who is on an archeological dig with her father in Oak Island. I loved both perspectives and had to keep reading to see how these two storylines would collide. I would describe this book as “The Goonies” meets “National Treasure” meets “Indiana Jones” meets “Tomb Raider.”
The History and the Mystery in this book are incredible! Both storylines enthralled me, and each chapter was left on a cliffhanger that had me turning the pages. In Garrett’s story, Garrett and his group of friends find a journal in the basement of an old house. When they begin to decipher the writing, it appears to be written by Abraham Lincoln. Garrett and his friends seemed like the typical high school nerds who get picked on for their intelligence. As a nerd myself, I could totally relate. However, some parts of Garrett’s family life are shrouded in mystery…
In Breanne’s chapters, she is on two archeological digs with her father and brothers. The first dig was in Mexico at a suspected Maya cenote, but the family is pulled away with news of a potential discovery on Oak Island. I loved everything about these chapters because I’m interested in archeology and connections to the Knights Templar. Each chapter left me wanting more, and each was filled with adventure, anticipation, and apprehension. Especially concerning the mysterious benefactor of the dig on Oak Island….
If you love fantasy, history, mystery, coming-of-age stories, conspiracy theories, hidden treasure, and adventure, this book has it all! Schafer has done a fantastic job with his debut novel! I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read on into the following three of this series!
The History and the Mystery in this book are incredible! Both storylines enthralled me, and each chapter was left on a cliffhanger that had me turning the pages. In Garrett’s story, Garrett and his group of friends find a journal in the basement of an old house. When they begin to decipher the writing, it appears to be written by Abraham Lincoln. Garrett and his friends seemed like the typical high school nerds who get picked on for their intelligence. As a nerd myself, I could totally relate. However, some parts of Garrett’s family life are shrouded in mystery…
In Breanne’s chapters, she is on two archeological digs with her father and brothers. The first dig was in Mexico at a suspected Maya cenote, but the family is pulled away with news of a potential discovery on Oak Island. I loved everything about these chapters because I’m interested in archeology and connections to the Knights Templar. Each chapter left me wanting more, and each was filled with adventure, anticipation, and apprehension. Especially concerning the mysterious benefactor of the dig on Oak Island….
If you love fantasy, history, mystery, coming-of-age stories, conspiracy theories, hidden treasure, and adventure, this book has it all! Schafer has done a fantastic job with his debut novel! I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read on into the following three of this series!
November 27, 2022
This ya adventure keeps you on the edge of your seat from chapter one!
Set from a a dual pov of Garrett and Breanna. They are being following clues that pulling them together into an ancient secret that might destroy the world they know.
A mixture of Indiana Jones, National Treature with a magical twist. Perfect for anyone who loves puzzles and mysteries.
Set from a a dual pov of Garrett and Breanna. They are being following clues that pulling them together into an ancient secret that might destroy the world they know.
A mixture of Indiana Jones, National Treature with a magical twist. Perfect for anyone who loves puzzles and mysteries.
August 15, 2022
Garrett lives in a sleepy town in Illinois. He has a job, works on the weekends doing handyman chores for an elderly neighbor, takes taikwando, literally runs from one thing to the next, and spends time with his friends. Oh, and does hardcore secret fighting and survival training at night. and can’t tell anyone.
Breanne spends her time digging around in a cave in Mexico with her father and brothers, trying to avoid PTSD from the car accident that killed her mother years ago. Oh, and searches for ancient hidden treasures.
This book starts out with a National Treasure meets Indiana Jones vibe, but by the end, you’ll see why it’s listed as YA fantasy.
Garrett’s and Breanne’s lives become more complicated when things take a turn for each of them. And when they start sharing dreams… even though they’ve never met? Yeah, let’s just say… things get real. Fast.
You’ll love this book, won’t want to put it down, and will be hopping online to buy the next one the second you finish. Because, trust me, you’ll be dying to know what happens next. Well, not literally… or will you? Unless Garrett and Breanne can accomplish their destinies, we’re all going to be in trouble!
Breanne spends her time digging around in a cave in Mexico with her father and brothers, trying to avoid PTSD from the car accident that killed her mother years ago. Oh, and searches for ancient hidden treasures.
This book starts out with a National Treasure meets Indiana Jones vibe, but by the end, you’ll see why it’s listed as YA fantasy.
Garrett’s and Breanne’s lives become more complicated when things take a turn for each of them. And when they start sharing dreams… even though they’ve never met? Yeah, let’s just say… things get real. Fast.
You’ll love this book, won’t want to put it down, and will be hopping online to buy the next one the second you finish. Because, trust me, you’ll be dying to know what happens next. Well, not literally… or will you? Unless Garrett and Breanne can accomplish their destinies, we’re all going to be in trouble!
November 30, 2022
This book is amazing! Excellent coming of age story loaded with history, fantasy, and adventure. I can't wait to read the next book!
November 16, 2022
Probably the best modern book I've read on Kindle Unlimited. It is a face paced adventure which might have benefitted from my recent odyssey of watching the young indy jones / old indy jones movies. It is in the same genre. The story flows smoothly and the plot draws you in.
I don't really care for the two books in one concept as we bounce between two stories as they alternate every chapter. I also struggled to care about the male protagonist and his buddy. Maybe his life was a little too close to my own childhood hell.
I don't really care for the two books in one concept as we bounce between two stories as they alternate every chapter. I also struggled to care about the male protagonist and his buddy. Maybe his life was a little too close to my own childhood hell.
December 2, 2022
Combine Indiana Jones, National Treasure, and the Goonies - throw in some aliens, secret societies, and the Knights Templar. This series has it all and it's beautifully done!
I rarely read YA. But I had heard a lot of good reviews on Otto's series and I love history and archeology...so I decided to leave the romance book path and try this series; I was not disappointed!
I love how the story is split between the two teens and their own experiences, then they merge as the story progresses. Garrett's mysterious training, Bre's amazing archeological experiences - both are so vividly written.
The accuracy in the details throughout this book is phenomenal, the research Otto must have done prior to and during his writing had to be extensive. No detail is brushed over, it's intricate and so well-done, at no point during the story did it feel like there was "info-dumping" happening.
I really enjoyed this book and will absolutely finish the series!
I rarely read YA. But I had heard a lot of good reviews on Otto's series and I love history and archeology...so I decided to leave the romance book path and try this series; I was not disappointed!
I love how the story is split between the two teens and their own experiences, then they merge as the story progresses. Garrett's mysterious training, Bre's amazing archeological experiences - both are so vividly written.
The accuracy in the details throughout this book is phenomenal, the research Otto must have done prior to and during his writing had to be extensive. No detail is brushed over, it's intricate and so well-done, at no point during the story did it feel like there was "info-dumping" happening.
I really enjoyed this book and will absolutely finish the series!
July 5, 2021
I loved how the story built from one location to another and even in a slightly different time. ⠀
The book kept me on my toes waiting to see how all the characters would eventually cross paths. I'm not going to say anymore, except get your butt in gear and read the book!
The book kept me on my toes waiting to see how all the characters would eventually cross paths. I'm not going to say anymore, except get your butt in gear and read the book!
October 31, 2023
This is a mixed review and may contain spoilers.
First, the good stuff.
The story was interesting, involving archeology and old mysteries (always a winner with me) that weaved together into more mysteries. This part of the story really had me hooked and kept me reading even when other things in the book made me cringe a bit.
Now, the not-so-good stuff.
First, the author often makes the rookie mistake of mixing up POVs. One minute we're in one character's head and the next, boom! we're in another's. It's not a huge deal because the story was exciting enough to keep me reading but still, something to be more careful of in following books.
Second, the lecturing was often too much. It felt as if the characters had stopped doing whatever they were doing and decided to lecture each other on the subject. The information, however interesting and/or necessary for the story, could have been spread out and delivered better.
I thought the plot twist or the big reveal at the end did not jive with the rest of the story. For the whole book I was kind of expecting some more scientific explanation (albeit with magical undertones) since the whole archeological setup was pretty accurate for the most part. But then we are hit with an extraterrestrial species of immortals who want to create an army by procreating with humans??? Sorry, it just sounded way too far-fetched even for this fantasy and sci-fi lover.
The worst part I think was the ending. Not because of the cliffhanger which I get considering it's a series, but because of the extremely long and somewhat repetitive lecture/speech given by the Martial Arts teacher while levitating. It was a huge info dump that totally took me out of the story and ruined it for me. I ended up skimming through the last chapter just to get it over with.
There were quite a few times when the characters would go into some totally off-topic spiel, taking the reader out of the story. An example: at one point Breanne is urgently looking for Garrett, but the scene stops to recall a time when she went into a store and had the well-meaning clerk ask her about her braids which made her feel uncomfortable. Good information about her, but just out of place.
All in all an entertaining story with some flaws. I just hope the author cleans out some of his writing. More is not always a good thing.
First, the good stuff.
The story was interesting, involving archeology and old mysteries (always a winner with me) that weaved together into more mysteries. This part of the story really had me hooked and kept me reading even when other things in the book made me cringe a bit.
Now, the not-so-good stuff.
First, the author often makes the rookie mistake of mixing up POVs. One minute we're in one character's head and the next, boom! we're in another's. It's not a huge deal because the story was exciting enough to keep me reading but still, something to be more careful of in following books.
Second, the lecturing was often too much. It felt as if the characters had stopped doing whatever they were doing and decided to lecture each other on the subject. The information, however interesting and/or necessary for the story, could have been spread out and delivered better.
I thought the plot twist or the big reveal at the end did not jive with the rest of the story. For the whole book I was kind of expecting some more scientific explanation (albeit with magical undertones) since the whole archeological setup was pretty accurate for the most part. But then we are hit with an extraterrestrial species of immortals who want to create an army by procreating with humans??? Sorry, it just sounded way too far-fetched even for this fantasy and sci-fi lover.
The worst part I think was the ending. Not because of the cliffhanger which I get considering it's a series, but because of the extremely long and somewhat repetitive lecture/speech given by the Martial Arts teacher while levitating. It was a huge info dump that totally took me out of the story and ruined it for me. I ended up skimming through the last chapter just to get it over with.
There were quite a few times when the characters would go into some totally off-topic spiel, taking the reader out of the story. An example: at one point Breanne is urgently looking for Garrett, but the scene stops to recall a time when she went into a store and had the well-meaning clerk ask her about her braids which made her feel uncomfortable. Good information about her, but just out of place.
All in all an entertaining story with some flaws. I just hope the author cleans out some of his writing. More is not always a good thing.
July 10, 2023
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! BEST BOOK I’VE READ THIS YEAR!!
How do I explain to you how much this book means to me?! I am one of many big fans of the book Fourth Wing. I have raved about it! BUT I AM ABOUT TO BLOW YOUR MIND!! I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH, EVEN MORE THAN FOURTH WING….WHAT??? I know that blows your mind, but this has probably hit my favorite book of all time!! Thanks for the recommendation JC!!
There are two storylines going on, easy to follow and both totally engrossing!! Yes, throughout this first book of the series you are like, what’s going on? But that’s what keeps you turning the pages! It’s an awesomely satisfying build up to answers we get by the end. But it’s all just begun!! SO FREAKING EXCITING!!!
First there’s Breanne, a 16 year old girl so smart that she graduated from high school early and takes some time before college to go with her dad and two brothers to an archeological dig. Some of her story line reminds me of Indiana Jones.
Then the other story line is of 16 year old Garrett Turik. There is so much that I want to leave for you to read about in these storylines. But Garrett and his friend Lenny have a strange upbringing. Their friend Pete is the geeky type and pretty much a genius. Their storyline is somewhat reminiscent of the Goonies!!
Both storylines have elements of National Treasure, on top of the Indiana Jones and Goonies! Also notes of The Magicians. In other words, this book is FILLED with Adventure, Archeology, Decoding an old Diary and following its clues, hints of magic, strange & realistic dreams, there’s close family and close friendships, there’s secrets and lies…who do you trust? Oh and there’s the start of what looks like it will be a romance as the series goes on. It’s a YA book, but to honestly put it into a certain genre is hard to do, because it is a bit of so many genres. But if what I’ve written intrigues you at all, go read the summary of the book and you will want to read it!!
Otto, I cannot believe this is your first book!! Your writing style, the simplistic way you wrote things that otherwise would be over our heads and we’d miss it, is truly amazing!! The research you put into this is obvious. The world building in the archeological parts are incredibly vivid and had my heart pumping. As for the characters, I am so in love with all of them, except for the ones I really love to hate!! You should win awards for this book, and I want to see it on the big screen!!!
MY FELLOW BOOK LOVERS, READ THIS FANTASTIC BOOK!!!
How do I explain to you how much this book means to me?! I am one of many big fans of the book Fourth Wing. I have raved about it! BUT I AM ABOUT TO BLOW YOUR MIND!! I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH, EVEN MORE THAN FOURTH WING….WHAT??? I know that blows your mind, but this has probably hit my favorite book of all time!! Thanks for the recommendation JC!!
There are two storylines going on, easy to follow and both totally engrossing!! Yes, throughout this first book of the series you are like, what’s going on? But that’s what keeps you turning the pages! It’s an awesomely satisfying build up to answers we get by the end. But it’s all just begun!! SO FREAKING EXCITING!!!
First there’s Breanne, a 16 year old girl so smart that she graduated from high school early and takes some time before college to go with her dad and two brothers to an archeological dig. Some of her story line reminds me of Indiana Jones.
Then the other story line is of 16 year old Garrett Turik. There is so much that I want to leave for you to read about in these storylines. But Garrett and his friend Lenny have a strange upbringing. Their friend Pete is the geeky type and pretty much a genius. Their storyline is somewhat reminiscent of the Goonies!!
Both storylines have elements of National Treasure, on top of the Indiana Jones and Goonies! Also notes of The Magicians. In other words, this book is FILLED with Adventure, Archeology, Decoding an old Diary and following its clues, hints of magic, strange & realistic dreams, there’s close family and close friendships, there’s secrets and lies…who do you trust? Oh and there’s the start of what looks like it will be a romance as the series goes on. It’s a YA book, but to honestly put it into a certain genre is hard to do, because it is a bit of so many genres. But if what I’ve written intrigues you at all, go read the summary of the book and you will want to read it!!
Otto, I cannot believe this is your first book!! Your writing style, the simplistic way you wrote things that otherwise would be over our heads and we’d miss it, is truly amazing!! The research you put into this is obvious. The world building in the archeological parts are incredibly vivid and had my heart pumping. As for the characters, I am so in love with all of them, except for the ones I really love to hate!! You should win awards for this book, and I want to see it on the big screen!!!
MY FELLOW BOOK LOVERS, READ THIS FANTASTIC BOOK!!!
January 3, 2021
A debut novel? Unbelievable!
An intriguing plot at a controlled pace with twists and turns - an alluring appeal that leads you straight down to the final cliffhanger.
It is a thoroughly researched, coming-of-age narrative that revisits ancient history where hidden treasures, secret orders, and mythological artifacts abound to make for a captivating fantasy novel. The Secret Journal by Otto Schafer is complete with a cast of credible characters in a well-developed setting.
The story begins with a small-town boy, Garrett Turek, from Petersburg, Illinois, who has to get home before the street lights come on. His life is typical, except for some peculiar set of “chores” that his father expects him to undertake.
Garrett has little time for much else as odd jobs, training, and school life occupy his time. But when a friend finds a secret journal in the basement of an old Victorian house, excitement flares up inside him, and he is ready for adventure.
Meanwhile, a precocious and overprotective daughter, Breanne Moore, is in a dark pit in Oak Island with her archeological father and two brothers.
They discover a lead chest of mythological finds. However, their discovery incites a stern warning from their excavation project’s enigmatic funder. They must not open inside the pit. In any case, Bre’s father opens the chest, and Bre realizes it is a mistake; she is changing, and her father is not the same.
Her only hope has become the small-town boy from Petersburg, Illinois. A boy whom she had only met in her prophetic dreams.
The Secret Journal is book 1 of the God Stones series.
I highly recommend it.
An intriguing plot at a controlled pace with twists and turns - an alluring appeal that leads you straight down to the final cliffhanger.
It is a thoroughly researched, coming-of-age narrative that revisits ancient history where hidden treasures, secret orders, and mythological artifacts abound to make for a captivating fantasy novel. The Secret Journal by Otto Schafer is complete with a cast of credible characters in a well-developed setting.
The story begins with a small-town boy, Garrett Turek, from Petersburg, Illinois, who has to get home before the street lights come on. His life is typical, except for some peculiar set of “chores” that his father expects him to undertake.
Garrett has little time for much else as odd jobs, training, and school life occupy his time. But when a friend finds a secret journal in the basement of an old Victorian house, excitement flares up inside him, and he is ready for adventure.
Meanwhile, a precocious and overprotective daughter, Breanne Moore, is in a dark pit in Oak Island with her archeological father and two brothers.
They discover a lead chest of mythological finds. However, their discovery incites a stern warning from their excavation project’s enigmatic funder. They must not open inside the pit. In any case, Bre’s father opens the chest, and Bre realizes it is a mistake; she is changing, and her father is not the same.
Her only hope has become the small-town boy from Petersburg, Illinois. A boy whom she had only met in her prophetic dreams.
The Secret Journal is book 1 of the God Stones series.
I highly recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2023
I recently read The Secret Journal by Otto Schafer, the first book in the God Stones series. It was an incredible read that really resonated with me, and I generally do not read YA. It is told from the perspectives of two young adults, and doesn't shy away from racial stereotypes and the daily challenges that POC face. Being a POC myself, Schafer did an amazing job of presenting these topics in an accessible and meaningful way. (HUGE shout out for the way Native Amercian's were represented!)
The story follows two teens that do not know each other, and are on opposite sides of the world, not to mention they lead very different types of lives. A mysterious journal is found, and a search for answers follow, which begins to build the mythos of the world. By the end of the book, its inspiring to see the journey the kids went through, but as we got answers to questions, it ultimately led to MORE QUESTIONS!
Overall, The Secret Journal was a great read. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well written YA series, and who might be bored of the Hunger Games/Divergent tropes. It's a fresh, entertaining, and thrilling story. I look forward to reading the rest!
The story follows two teens that do not know each other, and are on opposite sides of the world, not to mention they lead very different types of lives. A mysterious journal is found, and a search for answers follow, which begins to build the mythos of the world. By the end of the book, its inspiring to see the journey the kids went through, but as we got answers to questions, it ultimately led to MORE QUESTIONS!
Overall, The Secret Journal was a great read. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well written YA series, and who might be bored of the Hunger Games/Divergent tropes. It's a fresh, entertaining, and thrilling story. I look forward to reading the rest!
January 17, 2020
Let me first start off by explaining I AM NOT A READER, I don't have the patience to sit for any length of time, but I thought what the heck, all my friends are reading this book, so I too jumped on board to see what the hype was all about. I have to say, the first 2 chapters started off a little hard for me, but I thought to myself “just give it a few more chapters”. OMG I couldn't put the book down, I was reading every second I had. The story keeps you on the edge of your seat and makes you read so fast just to get to the next page. You can literally find yourself getting lost in the story almost experiencing it yourself.
I got to the last 2 chapters of the book and purposely stopped reading for over a week because I didn't want the book to end. I have to say the ending is a cliff hanger for sure!! I can't wait for the next book to come out!! This is a MUST READ, seriously!!
I got to the last 2 chapters of the book and purposely stopped reading for over a week because I didn't want the book to end. I have to say the ending is a cliff hanger for sure!! I can't wait for the next book to come out!! This is a MUST READ, seriously!!
August 9, 2020
This book was a real page turner. When I first started, I didn't know what to expect, and the intro was very different from the book, but it was a great introduction to a character who plays more in the background.
There are two points of view in this book. One is a girl who is working with her father on an archeological dig with her father and brothers on Oak Island, the other is a teen boy from central Illinois. Both are beginning to sense that something strange is going on with those around them. Both of them begin to have horrible nightmares of everything around them burning. But little do they know, that these dreams may not be the only thing they have in common.
This book explores the Knights Templar, Freemasons, and other such behind the scenes groups which are rumored to have a lot of power within the world. It also explores a world beyond our own and what might happen if certain secrets are uncovered that were never meant to be. A great story for adventure fans.
There are two points of view in this book. One is a girl who is working with her father on an archeological dig with her father and brothers on Oak Island, the other is a teen boy from central Illinois. Both are beginning to sense that something strange is going on with those around them. Both of them begin to have horrible nightmares of everything around them burning. But little do they know, that these dreams may not be the only thing they have in common.
This book explores the Knights Templar, Freemasons, and other such behind the scenes groups which are rumored to have a lot of power within the world. It also explores a world beyond our own and what might happen if certain secrets are uncovered that were never meant to be. A great story for adventure fans.
June 7, 2021
The Keepers of the Light was a such a great story! Sometimes two parallel storylines can be confusing or not flow properly, but not here! I become thoroughly invested in Garrett and Breanne as the mysterious plot unfolded. It had a Raiders of the Lost Ark/National Treasure/Goonies vibe going on and it totally worked. Wonderful little bits of mystery and intrigue were intertwined throughout the book, so it kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next – definitely a hard book to put down! Well-crafted characters pulled me into the adventure and Schafer captured each character’s personality through witty and clever dialogue along with relatable characteristics. The action was superbly written, and the twists and turns were woven into the story in such intricate detail that the scenes flowed smoothly from one into the other. A very enjoyable read and I look forward to reading the sequel.
June 14, 2024
Uneasiness
While the book isn't officially classified as urban fantasy it surely is adjacent. Promising ideas underpin the characters and their world. I know it's a YA series but the pages of 'and-then' to complete tasks sent me skimming. Maybe the goal was to echo tales of deeds from legend. I find 2 large-ish 'hunh?' issues. First, what's with Breanna's dad calling her baby girl, frequently? She's closer to 20 than 15 yrs old. 2nd, the 3 guys doing hot, sweaty house work for Eugene, a guy who collects antiques, self describes as not robust, whose wife at the lunch table tells the boys to save themselves for marriage like Eugene did until he was 42. Kind of anachronistic Hardy boy vibes between themselves. On reflection so far all the center stage adults are off-kilter men. 2 are genius types but odd. Another is physically abusive. Women: one mother dead, another 2 w intelligence but with only walk on parts.
While the book isn't officially classified as urban fantasy it surely is adjacent. Promising ideas underpin the characters and their world. I know it's a YA series but the pages of 'and-then' to complete tasks sent me skimming. Maybe the goal was to echo tales of deeds from legend. I find 2 large-ish 'hunh?' issues. First, what's with Breanna's dad calling her baby girl, frequently? She's closer to 20 than 15 yrs old. 2nd, the 3 guys doing hot, sweaty house work for Eugene, a guy who collects antiques, self describes as not robust, whose wife at the lunch table tells the boys to save themselves for marriage like Eugene did until he was 42. Kind of anachronistic Hardy boy vibes between themselves. On reflection so far all the center stage adults are off-kilter men. 2 are genius types but odd. Another is physically abusive. Women: one mother dead, another 2 w intelligence but with only walk on parts.
April 1, 2023
Another first for me: a YA fantasy adventure genre book!
I was immediately invested in this book thanks to the author's writing style. He is a truly skilled storyteller and his writing style just really clicked with me.
This book takes you on a ride with two separate tracks: one follows Breanne and her family of archaeological explorers on a mysterious island, and the other follows Garrett and his friends in their hometown in Illinois.
It was a non-stop adventure, and I found the pacing to be just right. As I was finishing a chapter about Breanne and her family, I was just as excited to get back to Garrett and friends. I just couldn't wait to see what happened next, as I cared about both of them!
The best news is that it's just the first in the God Stones series, so the adventures continue!
I was immediately invested in this book thanks to the author's writing style. He is a truly skilled storyteller and his writing style just really clicked with me.
This book takes you on a ride with two separate tracks: one follows Breanne and her family of archaeological explorers on a mysterious island, and the other follows Garrett and his friends in their hometown in Illinois.
It was a non-stop adventure, and I found the pacing to be just right. As I was finishing a chapter about Breanne and her family, I was just as excited to get back to Garrett and friends. I just couldn't wait to see what happened next, as I cared about both of them!
The best news is that it's just the first in the God Stones series, so the adventures continue!
December 5, 2023
Holy Christ on a cracker. This is only the first book in the God Stones series and when I tell you I'm hooked that's no exaggeration.
Is this a YA series that has me, a 36 year old, completely by the heartstrings? Why yes, yes it is. This book is absolutely what I would have loved to have read as a teen and it heals a bit of me now as an adult.
The Secret Journal is one of the most fun YA Fantasies that I've read in ages. I wish that I had known about this series before now because it was an absolute blast to go on this epic adventure with this cast of characters. I can't wait to jump into book two, honestly!
If you love the legends of Oak Island, magic hidden around every corner, and humor that'll make even the most jaded of us giggle then this is definitely the book(and I'd even wager to bet, SERIES) for you!
Is this a YA series that has me, a 36 year old, completely by the heartstrings? Why yes, yes it is. This book is absolutely what I would have loved to have read as a teen and it heals a bit of me now as an adult.
The Secret Journal is one of the most fun YA Fantasies that I've read in ages. I wish that I had known about this series before now because it was an absolute blast to go on this epic adventure with this cast of characters. I can't wait to jump into book two, honestly!
If you love the legends of Oak Island, magic hidden around every corner, and humor that'll make even the most jaded of us giggle then this is definitely the book(and I'd even wager to bet, SERIES) for you!
August 15, 2021
Magical blend of history and the supernatural!
The Secret Journal is a fantastical read for anyone looking to escape into a well-crafted contemporary fantasy.
Author Otto Schafer has done a superb job of crafting a story that is rich in suspense and action while wonderfully weaving in historical references. The plot is jaw dropping.
Told from two points of view, Breanne and Garrett pull you into the story and keep you turning pages, making this a fast-paced read. I enjoyed Breanne’s fierce character and her supportive family, and Garrett’s inner strength and crew of friends (seriously, their dialogue had me laughing out loud on multiple occasions). More please!
I easily devoured this book and look forward to diving into the rest of this series.
The Secret Journal is a fantastical read for anyone looking to escape into a well-crafted contemporary fantasy.
Author Otto Schafer has done a superb job of crafting a story that is rich in suspense and action while wonderfully weaving in historical references. The plot is jaw dropping.
Told from two points of view, Breanne and Garrett pull you into the story and keep you turning pages, making this a fast-paced read. I enjoyed Breanne’s fierce character and her supportive family, and Garrett’s inner strength and crew of friends (seriously, their dialogue had me laughing out loud on multiple occasions). More please!
I easily devoured this book and look forward to diving into the rest of this series.
March 25, 2022
3.75 stars.
This was really well written; it's incredibly rich in detail and meshes history and magic really well.
The book itself was really slow, a lot of buildup, maybe too much? Written from two very different POVs it felt like two separate books up until about 70+% that things really started to come together... additionally,
I don't find the transition of the super logical Moore family to jive with some of their actions in the book, it went against his the characters were originally portrayed.
Having said that, now that everything is completely spelled out at the end, I suspect the next book will be all action, and if it's as well written as the first I think it'll make the slow build up worth it.
This was really well written; it's incredibly rich in detail and meshes history and magic really well.
The book itself was really slow, a lot of buildup, maybe too much? Written from two very different POVs it felt like two separate books up until about 70+% that things really started to come together... additionally,
I don't find the transition of the super logical Moore family to jive with some of their actions in the book, it went against his the characters were originally portrayed.
Having said that, now that everything is completely spelled out at the end, I suspect the next book will be all action, and if it's as well written as the first I think it'll make the slow build up worth it.
March 3, 2024
Wow!!! This book is incredible! Omg I'm not even sure where to start!
Prepare for a journey!! What a journey! And it's just the beginning of it too!
Breanne is definitely my favorite character. Omg poor Garrett. I was so sad for him! What he's been going through is impossible!!! Now I finally understand why, but still, it doesn't make it right.
This book will bring you from one amazing discovery to another 😍 I've been wanting to read it way faster than this but life got in the way. But one sick day at home got me reading a lot and once I was in, I didn't want to get out. I'm really sad the book has come to an end now 🤣 I'm going to need the next one!!!!
This is a great YA fantasy book ❤️❤️❤️
Prepare for a journey!! What a journey! And it's just the beginning of it too!
Breanne is definitely my favorite character. Omg poor Garrett. I was so sad for him! What he's been going through is impossible!!! Now I finally understand why, but still, it doesn't make it right.
This book will bring you from one amazing discovery to another 😍 I've been wanting to read it way faster than this but life got in the way. But one sick day at home got me reading a lot and once I was in, I didn't want to get out. I'm really sad the book has come to an end now 🤣 I'm going to need the next one!!!!
This is a great YA fantasy book ❤️❤️❤️
March 23, 2023
I enjoyed this book. There are two story lines, one with Garret, his weird family, and quirky friends. I liked his found family (friends) better thank his real one!
The other story follows Breanna, who has a great family. Her's is a family that works well together as archeologists. Each member uses their strengths.
The book was a slow burn, sometimes too slow but I hear book two is fast paced. It takes a few hundred pages to figure out how the two stories come together but they do, then it gets really interesting! Will definitely pass it on to teen readers I know who will enjoy it.
The other story follows Breanna, who has a great family. Her's is a family that works well together as archeologists. Each member uses their strengths.
The book was a slow burn, sometimes too slow but I hear book two is fast paced. It takes a few hundred pages to figure out how the two stories come together but they do, then it gets really interesting! Will definitely pass it on to teen readers I know who will enjoy it.
August 13, 2023
Cliff hanger ending - so disappointing.
There were a lot of exciting parts to this story, as well as lots of boring stuff (like lectures) to explain everything. Sure, some things need explanations in a fantasy world, but this was excessive. I considered not finishing the book, but i was invested in the exciting adventurous parts and wanted to find out what happened at the end. Then comes a cliffhanger! No, I'm not going to struggle through another book like this just to be met with another cliffhanger!
There were a lot of exciting parts to this story, as well as lots of boring stuff (like lectures) to explain everything. Sure, some things need explanations in a fantasy world, but this was excessive. I considered not finishing the book, but i was invested in the exciting adventurous parts and wanted to find out what happened at the end. Then comes a cliffhanger! No, I'm not going to struggle through another book like this just to be met with another cliffhanger!
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