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Alessia in Atlantis #1
The Forbidden Vial
A fantasy adventure perfect for fans of Keeper of the Lost Cities and Percy Jackson.
It’s not unusual for twelve-year-old Alessia to lose control of her emotions and create a scene at school.
It IS unusual when one day she's attacked there by a giant frog monster and plunged into the underwater realm of Atlantis in an overturned boat.
On arriving in Atlantis, she learns that her long-lost father may have been from there. Determined to investigate, she stays and enrolls in Atlantide school: The Octopus’s Garden.
But uncovering the truth is not easy when the tyrannical Atlantide Emperor forbids asking about missing people. With the help of her newfound school friends, Alessia will have to steal evidence from a grumpy teacher, escape from rebel merfolk and make rhymes with menacing blue people of Minch to discover the key to her past.
Meanwhile, someone knows exactly who she’s the daughter of, and is ready to kill her for it.
It’s not unusual for twelve-year-old Alessia to lose control of her emotions and create a scene at school.
It IS unusual when one day she's attacked there by a giant frog monster and plunged into the underwater realm of Atlantis in an overturned boat.
On arriving in Atlantis, she learns that her long-lost father may have been from there. Determined to investigate, she stays and enrolls in Atlantide school: The Octopus’s Garden.
But uncovering the truth is not easy when the tyrannical Atlantide Emperor forbids asking about missing people. With the help of her newfound school friends, Alessia will have to steal evidence from a grumpy teacher, escape from rebel merfolk and make rhymes with menacing blue people of Minch to discover the key to her past.
Meanwhile, someone knows exactly who she’s the daughter of, and is ready to kill her for it.
313 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2021
43 people are currently reading
2451 people want to read
About the author
Nathalie Laine
4 books48 followersNathalie Laine is a children's fantasy author. She lives a safe distance away from the ocean, in Paris, France, where she works in marketing.
She enjoys: poking her finger into the mini whirlpools that form above bath drains, randomly understanding words in a language she doesn’t know, wrongly guessing the double-agent in cold war spy stories, sharing a Turkish meal of “Lion’s milk”, fish and turnip juice with friends, and getting spurned by grumpy cats.
She may have snuck some of the above into her series Alessia in Atlantis.
She is a graduate of the London School of Economics (BSc Management 2010).
She enjoys: poking her finger into the mini whirlpools that form above bath drains, randomly understanding words in a language she doesn’t know, wrongly guessing the double-agent in cold war spy stories, sharing a Turkish meal of “Lion’s milk”, fish and turnip juice with friends, and getting spurned by grumpy cats.
She may have snuck some of the above into her series Alessia in Atlantis.
She is a graduate of the London School of Economics (BSc Management 2010).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
June 27, 2021
I really enjoyed diving into this underwater creative world! There was a lot going on in the beginning, but it all pieces together very well.
I liked how it had subtle undertones of themes relating to classism and discrimination (depending on your underwater race). It was nice to see those elements unpicked and questioned in this middle grade story.
I loved how it tackled Alessia's empathy. She views it as a weakness in the beginning, and slowly learns that empathy can be a form of bravery, kindness and so much more. That gradual transformation of her character was beautiful to see unfold. And I think it can teach children a lot about empathy as well.
The friendships in this book were lovely! I enjoyed that side to the novel.
The mystery of this story successfully had me puzzled. I was surprised by how I couldn't predict the outcome (I usually can when it comes to the middle grade genre). I was surprised by the twists and unexpected turns that the narrative storyline took. There were enough clues that if I were more suspicious I might have been able to get it all together.
There's a lot about ruling, revenge and right and wrong. It digs into those things with a suitable level of complexity while keeping it understandable and easy for children to understand too. I liked that.
I liked how it had subtle undertones of themes relating to classism and discrimination (depending on your underwater race). It was nice to see those elements unpicked and questioned in this middle grade story.
I loved how it tackled Alessia's empathy. She views it as a weakness in the beginning, and slowly learns that empathy can be a form of bravery, kindness and so much more. That gradual transformation of her character was beautiful to see unfold. And I think it can teach children a lot about empathy as well.
The friendships in this book were lovely! I enjoyed that side to the novel.
The mystery of this story successfully had me puzzled. I was surprised by how I couldn't predict the outcome (I usually can when it comes to the middle grade genre). I was surprised by the twists and unexpected turns that the narrative storyline took. There were enough clues that if I were more suspicious I might have been able to get it all together.
There's a lot about ruling, revenge and right and wrong. It digs into those things with a suitable level of complexity while keeping it understandable and easy for children to understand too. I liked that.
April 3, 2021
This was such a fun middle grade adventure! I really enjoyed the action in this book and the creativity of how the world and magic system works. The characters were cute and I didn’t see the ending coming. The only thing I struggled with was how easily Alessia accepted this brand new world. I wanted to see her struggle with it a bit more. Overall it was great and I think middle graders would really enjoy it.
Huge thanks to the author for sending me a copy to read and review!
Huge thanks to the author for sending me a copy to read and review!
January 31, 2021
4.5 Stars
Wow what a ride! I’m writing this review fresh off of just finishing Alessia in Atlantis at 1am but I want my thoughts fresh so please bare with me!
I theorised so much throughout this book but let me tell you NONE OF THEM WERE CORRECT! We love to see it! I was fully shook by the time everything was playing out at the end I just couldn’t put the book down.
We follow our main character 12 y/o Alessia who tends to lose control of her emotions quite a lot and causes scenes at school. Except on one unusual day following an outburst Alessia is attacked by a giant frog monster and is plunged deep underwater to the realm of Atlantis where it is learnt her long lost father may have been from.
Not only did I love Alessia as a character but I had so much adoration for her school friends (especially Herior). Strong friendship groups are one of the many things I love in books so Alessia’s group really warmed my soul.
This book was just what I needed right now and I urge you all to pick this upper middle grade fantasy when it is released on March 1st!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
Wow what a ride! I’m writing this review fresh off of just finishing Alessia in Atlantis at 1am but I want my thoughts fresh so please bare with me!
I theorised so much throughout this book but let me tell you NONE OF THEM WERE CORRECT! We love to see it! I was fully shook by the time everything was playing out at the end I just couldn’t put the book down.
We follow our main character 12 y/o Alessia who tends to lose control of her emotions quite a lot and causes scenes at school. Except on one unusual day following an outburst Alessia is attacked by a giant frog monster and is plunged deep underwater to the realm of Atlantis where it is learnt her long lost father may have been from.
Not only did I love Alessia as a character but I had so much adoration for her school friends (especially Herior). Strong friendship groups are one of the many things I love in books so Alessia’s group really warmed my soul.
This book was just what I needed right now and I urge you all to pick this upper middle grade fantasy when it is released on March 1st!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
March 7, 2021
Wowza! This was amazing! I think this will be a series, & if so I need book 2 now! I want more! I don’t think I’ve read a book like this before-I’ve read a lot, but I’m pretty certain I haven’t-& it was an amazing time. It was so atmospheric, everything so vividly described, & the details for everything were so great. How they breath, their clothes, food, different types of people, or “species”, right down the storyline/plot itself. So well thought out & imagined. Alessia is such a great MC too. She’s been through a lot. Both her parents died when she was very young, & she remembers/knows nothing of her father- except a “fork” she has that was his. She’s also known she was different, but didn’t know how different. She’s always been “overly sensitive” to other people’s emotions. She always thought it was a weakness, never considering it a strength. 1 day she is plunged into the underwater world of Atlantis-where it seems her dad may have come from. She’s always been determined to find out more about him, so she stays & enrolls at their school. It’s forbidden by the Emperor to ask about people though, so she has to sneak, & gets help from her new gang of friends to uncover the truth about her dad. But someone knows who her dad is, & is ready to kill her for it. The adventures & things her & her friends have to do during this are all more dangerous & engrossing to read about than the one before. I loved seeing Alessia grow & discover her “weakness” is actually her strength. Being sensitive to others emotions is being a good person, & others see that & are drawn to her b/c of it. Such a ragtag group of friends, w/that found family feeling as well that I love. My favorites were Wimmi &, yes-Vulcor..I know, but I always felt for the bad boys, even when I was that age. His connection was Alessia was amazing to read. Never saw that ending coming! Loved every minute, especially the touching scene at the end w/her little found family. Can’t wait for more. Highly recommend! Absolutely beautiful cover by Alessandro Brunelli.💜
January 17, 2021
Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Holy moly! This book was an ABSOLUTE BLAST. I loved it! I'm a huge fan of the Percy Jackson series and this book gave me major PJ vibes in the best way. Alessia is awesome. She's the type of character you fall in love with and root for. She's strong, funny and real. Her life has been hard and she's always been different. She soon realizes how different she is. Her ability to feel emotions of others turns out to be a strength not a flaw. Alessia in Atlantis is truly a wonderful read. I would read it again, and will recommend it to anyone. Do not dismiss this one because it's middle grade. It's a truly great fantasy with excellent writing, and wonderful characters.
Holy moly! This book was an ABSOLUTE BLAST. I loved it! I'm a huge fan of the Percy Jackson series and this book gave me major PJ vibes in the best way. Alessia is awesome. She's the type of character you fall in love with and root for. She's strong, funny and real. Her life has been hard and she's always been different. She soon realizes how different she is. Her ability to feel emotions of others turns out to be a strength not a flaw. Alessia in Atlantis is truly a wonderful read. I would read it again, and will recommend it to anyone. Do not dismiss this one because it's middle grade. It's a truly great fantasy with excellent writing, and wonderful characters.
March 7, 2021
Thank you to the author Nathalie for contacting me and giving me a copy of her book! It was a pleasure to talk to you and to read your book! Because spoiler alert I LOVED IT!!
So a lot of comparison were made with "Keeper of the Lost Cities" and "Percy Jackson". I personality didn't enjoy "Keeper of the Lost Cities" by I definitely see and understand the comparison with "Percy Jackson". But let me tel you that I saw more "Nevermoor" in it that I had expected (even with Nathalie's warning haha). AND it also reminded me of "Mystery of Dark Hollow Lane" with all the parents' secrecy and I loved that book so much too!
That book, so Alessia' story was so easy to read and enjoy! It was a ride and I almost didn't see myself reading the book (I actually ate it but hey xD).
If I had to summarize the book in a few words it would be: "action packed", "adventure", "mystery" & "gripping". Believe me when I say that the surprises won't stop, because they won't! You will always find yourself reading about something new.
And that's actually why it wasn't a 5 stars for me, I just needed to calm down a bit while reading that book, you know to feel like I knew everything I could start being a detective trying to figure out things. But nope, I had no time for that haha
Alessia was a great character, I loved her way of thinking and facing things. I loved her friends too! And just as much! The world-building was just sooooo vivid I could really picture all the different characters moving from one page to the other. Many characters yes! But they all felt different! So that's a great point because you don't want many characters who all seem like a copy of the other and then you just can't know who is saying what, if you know what I mean!
I loved the huuuge friendship theme in the book. For someone like me, who values friendship so much (maybe even more than family) it was a huge plus for me. Alessia made friends who were ready to do anything for her! They never let her down! They helped her discovering the truth and unwrap the many mysteries...
But having friends on your side also means having people to stab you in the back. And I feel that the book did an amazing job at being magical as long as realistic. It felt real and that's why I got to care so much about all the characters.
It also talks about politics in a light way let's say. It is still for children BUT it definitely painted a realistic picture of what the wrong person in power can do, and all the secrets that we, of course don't know about, that can lead to bad or weird decisions. Well I don't know if that made sense, but I hope it does haha
In short, it was a funny gripping mysterious fantastic book and I want to read more about Alessia!
So a lot of comparison were made with "Keeper of the Lost Cities" and "Percy Jackson". I personality didn't enjoy "Keeper of the Lost Cities" by I definitely see and understand the comparison with "Percy Jackson". But let me tel you that I saw more "Nevermoor" in it that I had expected (even with Nathalie's warning haha). AND it also reminded me of "Mystery of Dark Hollow Lane" with all the parents' secrecy and I loved that book so much too!
That book, so Alessia' story was so easy to read and enjoy! It was a ride and I almost didn't see myself reading the book (I actually ate it but hey xD).
If I had to summarize the book in a few words it would be: "action packed", "adventure", "mystery" & "gripping". Believe me when I say that the surprises won't stop, because they won't! You will always find yourself reading about something new.
And that's actually why it wasn't a 5 stars for me, I just needed to calm down a bit while reading that book, you know to feel like I knew everything I could start being a detective trying to figure out things. But nope, I had no time for that haha
Alessia was a great character, I loved her way of thinking and facing things. I loved her friends too! And just as much! The world-building was just sooooo vivid I could really picture all the different characters moving from one page to the other. Many characters yes! But they all felt different! So that's a great point because you don't want many characters who all seem like a copy of the other and then you just can't know who is saying what, if you know what I mean!
I loved the huuuge friendship theme in the book. For someone like me, who values friendship so much (maybe even more than family) it was a huge plus for me. Alessia made friends who were ready to do anything for her! They never let her down! They helped her discovering the truth and unwrap the many mysteries...
But having friends on your side also means having people to stab you in the back. And I feel that the book did an amazing job at being magical as long as realistic. It felt real and that's why I got to care so much about all the characters.
It also talks about politics in a light way let's say. It is still for children BUT it definitely painted a realistic picture of what the wrong person in power can do, and all the secrets that we, of course don't know about, that can lead to bad or weird decisions. Well I don't know if that made sense, but I hope it does haha
In short, it was a funny gripping mysterious fantastic book and I want to read more about Alessia!
February 10, 2021
This was such a fun read. I cannot wait to see what comes next for Alessia! If you are fans of Keeper of the Lost Cities, I think you are really going to enjoy this middle grade!
Full review in my wrap up vlog. https://youtu.be/6_EFasi4gAE
Full review in my wrap up vlog. https://youtu.be/6_EFasi4gAE
December 10, 2022
A breath-taking book rich in adventure and action.
Twelve-year-old Alessia had never known her true origin; following the fascinating discovery, she found herself rushing toward an unforeseen and rather strange adventure. On the mission of digging out her true identity, she made friends worth holding fast to for a lifetime, friends who were determined to have her back no matter what. Along with her allies, she slowly began to unravel the mystery, hardly being aware of what she would eventually bump into.
This enthralling story has the potential of getting a strong grip on the reader from the very beginning. The amalgamation of the magnificent storyline, astounding twists, and beautiful presentation is clearly visible in the book, and it is no doubt a pretty good pick for new teens.
The story comes with a big lesson that no matter how close someone is to us, they don’t necessarily need to be the best on the earth, and the instance of self-centeredness and betrayal does not always come from distant ones.
No big mistake was spotted, and the usage of grammar was pretty good as well.
The only thing that I (personally) found a little unsuitable is the last part where Herior got a girlfriend, and an earlier part where Alessia thought Vulcor was going to kiss her. The reason why I feel so is that the characters, according to my opinion, are not old enough for this. Otherwise, the story is simply amazing.
This book is undoubtedly a gem.
(I have received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
Twelve-year-old Alessia had never known her true origin; following the fascinating discovery, she found herself rushing toward an unforeseen and rather strange adventure. On the mission of digging out her true identity, she made friends worth holding fast to for a lifetime, friends who were determined to have her back no matter what. Along with her allies, she slowly began to unravel the mystery, hardly being aware of what she would eventually bump into.
This enthralling story has the potential of getting a strong grip on the reader from the very beginning. The amalgamation of the magnificent storyline, astounding twists, and beautiful presentation is clearly visible in the book, and it is no doubt a pretty good pick for new teens.
The story comes with a big lesson that no matter how close someone is to us, they don’t necessarily need to be the best on the earth, and the instance of self-centeredness and betrayal does not always come from distant ones.
No big mistake was spotted, and the usage of grammar was pretty good as well.
The only thing that I (personally) found a little unsuitable is the last part where Herior got a girlfriend, and an earlier part where Alessia thought Vulcor was going to kiss her. The reason why I feel so is that the characters, according to my opinion, are not old enough for this. Otherwise, the story is simply amazing.
This book is undoubtedly a gem.
(I have received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
February 7, 2021
4.5 🌟
Mystery? ✔️
Adventure? ✔️
Action packed? ✔️
I just wanted a fun middle grade read, but I got something wonderful and magical! Alessia in Atlantis is fast-paced, captivating and immersive. It captures the reader's attention right from the start.
It gives you an enchanting universe that you don't wanna leave. The world is definitely my favorite! Nathalie Laine created a beautifully constructed version of Atlantis. It's so detailed and vibrant. Her gradual introduction to the readers of it's culture, history, and language is just perfect. It's so fun discovering new aspects of Atlantis.
The characters are adorable (even the cynic one). They are funny, interesting and adventurous. Alessia's character development is superb. I love the friends' relationship, how they try to help each other. Although I was taken aback when Herior got a girlfriend and Alessia thought that Vulcor was going to kiss her.
Plot-wise, it's amazing. It has a lot of twists and turns that there's no dull moment. It keeps the reader wanting to read more.
Beautifully written, Alessia in Atlantis is a middlegrade novel that will capture the imagination of young and old alike. I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Mystery? ✔️
Adventure? ✔️
Action packed? ✔️
I just wanted a fun middle grade read, but I got something wonderful and magical! Alessia in Atlantis is fast-paced, captivating and immersive. It captures the reader's attention right from the start.
It gives you an enchanting universe that you don't wanna leave. The world is definitely my favorite! Nathalie Laine created a beautifully constructed version of Atlantis. It's so detailed and vibrant. Her gradual introduction to the readers of it's culture, history, and language is just perfect. It's so fun discovering new aspects of Atlantis.
The characters are adorable (even the cynic one). They are funny, interesting and adventurous. Alessia's character development is superb. I love the friends' relationship, how they try to help each other. Although I was taken aback when Herior got a girlfriend and Alessia thought that Vulcor was going to kiss her.
Plot-wise, it's amazing. It has a lot of twists and turns that there's no dull moment. It keeps the reader wanting to read more.
Beautifully written, Alessia in Atlantis is a middlegrade novel that will capture the imagination of young and old alike. I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2020
Alessia in Atlantis is one of those rare and precious books that fully immerses you into a new and enchanting universe which you will never want to leave! I truly enjoyed discovering the lifestyle, the technology, the politics, the traditions, the legends and the history which make up this mystical urbanised undersea world.
In addition to the mysterious and fast-paced adventurous storyline (Warning: I was gasping at some very suspenseful chapter endings!), it was a pleasure to meet various sweet, relatable and heat-warming characters (even the ones are who a little grouchy…)
From the light-hearted puns (YAY PUNS!!!), to the emotional rollercoasters with which the characters are battling with, the author has clear ability to keep the reader engaged and moved.
I’m glad I received an advanced reader copy. Definitely recommend this book and definitely also want to apply to the Octopus’s Garden!!!
In addition to the mysterious and fast-paced adventurous storyline (Warning: I was gasping at some very suspenseful chapter endings!), it was a pleasure to meet various sweet, relatable and heat-warming characters (even the ones are who a little grouchy…)
From the light-hearted puns (YAY PUNS!!!), to the emotional rollercoasters with which the characters are battling with, the author has clear ability to keep the reader engaged and moved.
I’m glad I received an advanced reader copy. Definitely recommend this book and definitely also want to apply to the Octopus’s Garden!!!
January 22, 2021
I loved this book. The characters were loveable and I enjoyed reading their journey. The underwater world sounded fun to live in!
I knew I liked the fantasy genre but I have been struggling to find more authors ...but now I have! I will be looking out for more books by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I knew I liked the fantasy genre but I have been struggling to find more authors ...but now I have! I will be looking out for more books by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2021
A fantastic book! One that would make a great movie! I won this on Goodreads for my great niece to read, I read it first to make sure it was something a 12 year old would read. Full of adventure and fantasy! Thank you for the enjoyable read!!
December 29, 2020
I am so grateful to have gotten the chance to read this book! Alessia in Atlantis is a wonderfully written middle grade fantasy fiction that takes the reader into the depths of Atlantis. We are introduced to Alessia, a twelve year old who doesn't seem to always have control over her emotions and who finds it difficult to make friends. When she hears a sirens call (quite unusual for humans) and ends up in Atlantis, she makes the decision to stay in hopes of finding out more about her father.
I loved reading about the lost city and the creatures who inhabit it. The author has done a wonderful job with the descriptions and paints a lovely picture. The characters in the book are fun to read about and I love how Alessia's friends move in to help her in her search. As the story progresses, the reader is taken on a journey through Atlantis as secrets are revealed and all is not as it seems!
The book is gripping and absolutely worth the read. This book though aimed at middle grades, is a wonderful read even for adults!
I loved reading about the lost city and the creatures who inhabit it. The author has done a wonderful job with the descriptions and paints a lovely picture. The characters in the book are fun to read about and I love how Alessia's friends move in to help her in her search. As the story progresses, the reader is taken on a journey through Atlantis as secrets are revealed and all is not as it seems!
The book is gripping and absolutely worth the read. This book though aimed at middle grades, is a wonderful read even for adults!
December 28, 2020
Creative world building, unexpected twists, exciting adventures and satisfying ending... Alessia in Atlantis is an entertaining read from the beginning to the very end. The book reminded me of my years reading Harry Potter in secondary school. Though book targets youngsters, it is a great story for adult readers as well, touching several important topics.
The story wraps up in the book at the end yet I see a huge potential to explore the world and the story of Alessia more so if author considers sequels, they are much welcome.
The story wraps up in the book at the end yet I see a huge potential to explore the world and the story of Alessia more so if author considers sequels, they are much welcome.
March 2, 2021
Love this book .. the new world created for this book is really well described. Sometimes a bit too much but then it’s all making sense. She really created a nice universe with solid characters and varieties. Everything is set for a sequel! I read a lot of middle grade and this is a really good one. Enough to recommend it to my friends and buy it for my kids!
June 28, 2021
I didn't expect it to get me trapped until I finished reading it, but it's not only action packed, the magic underworld is vividly built, with characters appearing from various mythologies, and the psychology of three characters is more complex than it initially seems. Three book is now "touring the house", as it's really a book everyone can enjoy, I'm sure making different takes on it.
February 12, 2021
3.5 ⭐️
If you are looking for a story to take you through the an underwater adventure with all the fantastical mythical creatures, I would recommend this one 🌊
The main character, Alessia, is essentially an orphaned girl who really hasn’t been like all the other kids and never seems to be able to make friends. Now in Atlantis, she has to uncover her secret origins in a captivating tale which you wouldn’t expect. She experiences growth through it all and I loved all the flashbacks and characters.
While it was entertaining, it personally did not grab my attention as much as other middle grade books. I would definitely recommend this book for readers who want a quick paced adventure book with twists and turns without over complicating it. This would be an amazing book to get the given demographic into reading or anyone else looking for a refreshing tale while in a reading slump on its release date on March 1!
Thank you to the author for letting me read her enticing story before it’s release date!
If you are looking for a story to take you through the an underwater adventure with all the fantastical mythical creatures, I would recommend this one 🌊
The main character, Alessia, is essentially an orphaned girl who really hasn’t been like all the other kids and never seems to be able to make friends. Now in Atlantis, she has to uncover her secret origins in a captivating tale which you wouldn’t expect. She experiences growth through it all and I loved all the flashbacks and characters.
While it was entertaining, it personally did not grab my attention as much as other middle grade books. I would definitely recommend this book for readers who want a quick paced adventure book with twists and turns without over complicating it. This would be an amazing book to get the given demographic into reading or anyone else looking for a refreshing tale while in a reading slump on its release date on March 1!
Thank you to the author for letting me read her enticing story before it’s release date!
March 9, 2021
I really liked this middle grade fantasy about Alessia who by accident figures out where she belongs, who she is and who her parents really were!
I was very drawn in by the story and the writing was so beautiful that I felt like I was under the ocean with Alessia and all of her friends.
The only problem for me was that the plot was a little confusing and sometimes I had to go back to remember how some things happened because there was a lot of twists and turns and a lot of characters to keep track of. The plot could also be for older readers but if you use it as a goodnight read there is a lot to talk and think about.
I loved Alessia and I really felt with her. She always felt like she was the odd one out and felt so weird amongst the children in her class in the human world but in Atlantis everything changes and she becomes this strong and resilient person who takes chances and breaks the laws to figure out who she is and who her father was. She isn’t afraid to jump right into danger to get some answers but luckily she gets some amazing friends who helps her at every turn but can she trust all of them?
I can definitely recommend this book but I will recommend that an parent reads it with the child the first time, maybe as a bedtime story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was very drawn in by the story and the writing was so beautiful that I felt like I was under the ocean with Alessia and all of her friends.
The only problem for me was that the plot was a little confusing and sometimes I had to go back to remember how some things happened because there was a lot of twists and turns and a lot of characters to keep track of. The plot could also be for older readers but if you use it as a goodnight read there is a lot to talk and think about.
I loved Alessia and I really felt with her. She always felt like she was the odd one out and felt so weird amongst the children in her class in the human world but in Atlantis everything changes and she becomes this strong and resilient person who takes chances and breaks the laws to figure out who she is and who her father was. She isn’t afraid to jump right into danger to get some answers but luckily she gets some amazing friends who helps her at every turn but can she trust all of them?
I can definitely recommend this book but I will recommend that an parent reads it with the child the first time, maybe as a bedtime story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2021
This was a fun and fast paced middle grade fantasy that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys middle grade. All of the characters were super likable and it was very interesting to see such a unique take on the Atlantis. It did get slow at times, but thankfully those moments would not last very long and something would happen to move along the plot.
April 21, 2021
(Review by my 11-year-old little brother):
It was confusing at first, but it ended out good. I wasn't a fan of the MC, but the mysteries were super fun. Really liked this book. I read it in two days. 4.5 stars.
It was confusing at first, but it ended out good. I wasn't a fan of the MC, but the mysteries were super fun. Really liked this book. I read it in two days. 4.5 stars.
February 18, 2021
This was such a fun read! The story was unexpected and drew me in immediately. A middle-grade, alternate world (Atlantis) adventure story. I'll be waiting for a sequel!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2021
Twelve-year-old Alessia has difficulty controlling her emotions in class and it leads to humiliating scenes at school. But when a giant frog kidnaps her and pulls her underwater to Atlantis, Alessia is in for an adventure. She discovers her father may have been from Atlantis, so she chooses to enroll in Atlantide school to investigate. Finding the truth is like yanking teeth but Alessia enlists the help of her new school friends to help her. There’s an enemy hidden who wants the truth of Alessia’s father kept secret, who will stop at nothing to make sure Alessia fails. Can Alessia reveal the key to her past or will have no choice but to stay quiet?
Alessia in Atlantis is an imaginative underwater adventure kids will love. As the story unfolds, readers will not only relate to the struggles Alessia goes through but can go on a great adventure. Descriptive narration pulls the reader into the story, especially the Atlantis scenes. The plot is fairly easy to follow which works perfectly for the targeted audience: kids. The world-building is imaginative and allows the reader to escape into a fantasy world. Note to parents: there’s some bullying but it’s age-appropriate. I thoroughly enjoyed Alessia in Atlantis and look forward to more adventures in the series. Fans of the Percy Jackson series will love Alessia in Atlantis. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Alessia in Atlantis is an imaginative underwater adventure kids will love. As the story unfolds, readers will not only relate to the struggles Alessia goes through but can go on a great adventure. Descriptive narration pulls the reader into the story, especially the Atlantis scenes. The plot is fairly easy to follow which works perfectly for the targeted audience: kids. The world-building is imaginative and allows the reader to escape into a fantasy world. Note to parents: there’s some bullying but it’s age-appropriate. I thoroughly enjoyed Alessia in Atlantis and look forward to more adventures in the series. Fans of the Percy Jackson series will love Alessia in Atlantis. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
December 9, 2020
An adventurous “fish out of water” tale about an orphan raised by her doting, but absent-minded stepfather who finds herself attending a boarding school close to the coastal village where her mother had lived. After a terrifying encounter with a strange water creature, Alessia finds herself being called by the sea and is thrown into the ocean, where she sinks down and finds herself in the City of Atlantis. She meets a gentleman, named Felthor, who explains that only Atlantide citizens can be called to the sea. This makes Alessia realize that her father must have been from Atlantis and is determined to find him.
I enjoyed reading Alessia in Atlantis, The Forbidden Vial, immensely. Our heroine was a sweet, sensitive, yet plucky girl whose deeply empathic. At first, she sees this ability as a curse that separates her from her peers and causes her to be an outcaste, however she comes to accept them as her self-esteem and confidence grows. Along for the ride is a great cast of characters (some are not what they seem) who befriend, support and/or torment our young heroine.
The author does an excellent job in creating and describing this underwater world. You can feel yourself immersing in this world and rooting for Alessia and her friends. This is a fun and at times, nail biting, narrative that is sure to entertain the minds and spark the imaginations of grade through middle schoolers.
I enjoyed reading Alessia in Atlantis, The Forbidden Vial, immensely. Our heroine was a sweet, sensitive, yet plucky girl whose deeply empathic. At first, she sees this ability as a curse that separates her from her peers and causes her to be an outcaste, however she comes to accept them as her self-esteem and confidence grows. Along for the ride is a great cast of characters (some are not what they seem) who befriend, support and/or torment our young heroine.
The author does an excellent job in creating and describing this underwater world. You can feel yourself immersing in this world and rooting for Alessia and her friends. This is a fun and at times, nail biting, narrative that is sure to entertain the minds and spark the imaginations of grade through middle schoolers.
January 26, 2023
A spell-binding tale of intrigue and adventure. Every chapter has an exciting twist, as Alessia, a young, friendless girl struggles to find out who she really is. Thrust into the undersea world of Atlantis, she quickly deduces that her arrival there was no accident. She overcomes her insecurity and shyness, and together with her newfound school chums, discovers the dangerous secret about the origins of her family. The scene-setting is magical, and one quickly falls in love with the quirky characters she meets in and out of school in this super-advanced undersea world. A delight to read that will captivate the attention of middle-schoolers (and beyond), and stimulate their imaginations. Highly recommended.
March 6, 2021
Rating: 3.5/5
Alessia in Atlantis: The Forbidden Vial was a fun and adventurous read! I loved the setting as the author painted wonderfully Atlantis. In addition, I absolutely loved the friendship that the characters has built and how they helped each other to solve the mysteries (side note: I am always bad at guessing and thus, I was unable to guess correctly haha).
The reason why I didn't give a 4 stars is because since the book is written to target to a much younger audience than me, I somehow couldn't bring myself to be fully immersed. Nonetheless, I find the book to be very interesting filled with adorable characters and plot twists!
I would like to thank Goodreads and especially the author for the ARC giveaway!
Alessia in Atlantis: The Forbidden Vial was a fun and adventurous read! I loved the setting as the author painted wonderfully Atlantis. In addition, I absolutely loved the friendship that the characters has built and how they helped each other to solve the mysteries (side note: I am always bad at guessing and thus, I was unable to guess correctly haha).
The reason why I didn't give a 4 stars is because since the book is written to target to a much younger audience than me, I somehow couldn't bring myself to be fully immersed. Nonetheless, I find the book to be very interesting filled with adorable characters and plot twists!
I would like to thank Goodreads and especially the author for the ARC giveaway!
March 2, 2021
Thanks to BookSirens and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I don’t really read a ton of middle grade books, but this one caught my attention and kept it. Alessia is such an endearing character. She is overly emotional and a bit of a drama Queen (much like myself) and it was nice feeling that connection with her. I also love the world-building. It reminds me a lot of Percy Jackson, and yet it stands on its own, as well. The author has a great imagination and a beautiful way with words. I wholeheartedly recommend this book and can’t wait for more of Alessia’s adventures!
August 14, 2021
Offered the book to my friend's daughters, they loved it and wouldn't put it down. Kept on asking me if the sequel was out yet (🤞 in a not too distant future).
Highly recommend it, I think young readers will have a fun time discovering the world of Atlantis!
My friend who read it along with her youngest daughter told me she liked the portrayal of friendships and the twists of the story, so keep in mind it's a fun read for the not-so-young-anymore as well
Highly recommend it, I think young readers will have a fun time discovering the world of Atlantis!
My friend who read it along with her youngest daughter told me she liked the portrayal of friendships and the twists of the story, so keep in mind it's a fun read for the not-so-young-anymore as well
December 20, 2020
This story is so much fun! I absolutely loved getting to explore Atlantis as Alessia was learning about her new world. The dynamics of the government and the species living within were so fascinating, and I honestly want so many more books set in this world! Alessia was an excellent heroine and the friends she made along the way were delightful, especially Kella!
March 29, 2021
Oh my god I could not stop reading this amazing book. I loves Alessias story and the world of Atlantis.
The tiny but important detials were amazing and the whole book was just like a movie in my head. Loved the scenery, the drama and the ending.
The tiny but important detials were amazing and the whole book was just like a movie in my head. Loved the scenery, the drama and the ending.
February 1, 2021
I received a copy of this book on netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Alessia in Atlantis: The Forbidden Vial is a middle-grade novel following Alessia, a child who has always had overwhelming sense of empathy that often leads her to cause embarrassing scenes at school. She is searching for answers about her parents in her mother's home village when she hears a siren's song beckoning her underwater. What she finds when she follows the song is more answers than she was ever looking for, in the lost city of Atlantis!
This book was great, it has all of the elements I look for in a middle grade: it's fast paced, adventurous, mysterious, involves a fantastical world and fantastical creatures, and has one of my favourite tropes, (especially in middle grade), a found family.
Found families in general offer all of the heartwarming, wholesome feelings I adore in children's fiction, and the 'family' in 'Alessia in Atlantis: The Forbidden Vial' does not disappoint. While I may not love all of the characters involved in this dynamic, their different personalities make them all the more strong.
I also loved Alessia, and enjoyed how she didn't seem like an attempt to fit in the 'not like other girls' stereotype, while still being a unique character within this world. I loved her character development throughout this book, and how she goes from believing that she's weak to realising that that 'weakness' is what makes her strong.
The world that Nathalie Laine has created is very immersive and well thought out, which automatically increases my engagement in the story and provides a brilliant atmosphere.
The guardians Alessia is (I believe) adopted by are a gay couple, and while I appreciate this inclusion of a prominent LGBTQ+ couple, they fit into some overdone stereotypes.
In parts I found aspects of this story predictable and unsurprising, however I often find this when I read middle grade, so I try not to let predictability affect my rating when reviewing books written for a younger audience, and there were still some reveals that managed to surprise me.
The character, Kella, was not my favourite, mostly due to her attitude towards a lot of things. She's got a very cynical outlook, and while I typically like more cynical characters, when it's a child expressing these feelings, it rubs me the wrong way. This is most likely a personal thing though and wouldn't annoy others as much as it did me.
There was another thing that I wasn't a huge fan of in this novel, and that is the romance aspects, because anything romance-like in middle grade feels wrong, however I do remember being the age the characters are, and having crushes similar to the ones they have, so I can understand its inclusion. The awkwardness of a certain relationship helped to combat my discomfort as it showed that the author understood the levels of romance felt by people of that age.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and it's one of the best middle grades I have read. I often think that if I would recommend a middle grade to my 10 year old sister, then it's done something right, and I have already urged her to try this once it's out. If you are a fan of Rick Riordan, I recommend reading this book, as it definitely reminded me of it in parts. I would also recommend this to fans of the Nevermoor series by Jessica Townsend, as it had some similarities to this.
Alessia in Atlantis: The Forbidden Vial is a middle-grade novel following Alessia, a child who has always had overwhelming sense of empathy that often leads her to cause embarrassing scenes at school. She is searching for answers about her parents in her mother's home village when she hears a siren's song beckoning her underwater. What she finds when she follows the song is more answers than she was ever looking for, in the lost city of Atlantis!
This book was great, it has all of the elements I look for in a middle grade: it's fast paced, adventurous, mysterious, involves a fantastical world and fantastical creatures, and has one of my favourite tropes, (especially in middle grade), a found family.
Found families in general offer all of the heartwarming, wholesome feelings I adore in children's fiction, and the 'family' in 'Alessia in Atlantis: The Forbidden Vial' does not disappoint. While I may not love all of the characters involved in this dynamic, their different personalities make them all the more strong.
I also loved Alessia, and enjoyed how she didn't seem like an attempt to fit in the 'not like other girls' stereotype, while still being a unique character within this world. I loved her character development throughout this book, and how she goes from believing that she's weak to realising that that 'weakness' is what makes her strong.
The world that Nathalie Laine has created is very immersive and well thought out, which automatically increases my engagement in the story and provides a brilliant atmosphere.
The guardians Alessia is (I believe) adopted by are a gay couple, and while I appreciate this inclusion of a prominent LGBTQ+ couple, they fit into some overdone stereotypes.
In parts I found aspects of this story predictable and unsurprising, however I often find this when I read middle grade, so I try not to let predictability affect my rating when reviewing books written for a younger audience, and there were still some reveals that managed to surprise me.
The character, Kella, was not my favourite, mostly due to her attitude towards a lot of things. She's got a very cynical outlook, and while I typically like more cynical characters, when it's a child expressing these feelings, it rubs me the wrong way. This is most likely a personal thing though and wouldn't annoy others as much as it did me.
There was another thing that I wasn't a huge fan of in this novel, and that is the romance aspects, because anything romance-like in middle grade feels wrong, however I do remember being the age the characters are, and having crushes similar to the ones they have, so I can understand its inclusion. The awkwardness of a certain relationship helped to combat my discomfort as it showed that the author understood the levels of romance felt by people of that age.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and it's one of the best middle grades I have read. I often think that if I would recommend a middle grade to my 10 year old sister, then it's done something right, and I have already urged her to try this once it's out. If you are a fan of Rick Riordan, I recommend reading this book, as it definitely reminded me of it in parts. I would also recommend this to fans of the Nevermoor series by Jessica Townsend, as it had some similarities to this.
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