What do you think?
Secrets of the Twilight Djinn #1
Max and the Spice Thieves
When his mother goes missing, Max Daybreaker’s world is turned upside down. Luckily, a crew of Spice Pirates, led by the mysterious Captain Cinn, help Max on his dangerous mission across the three seas.
Along the way, an unlikely alliance aids in his search—a teenage warrior queen, a three-eyed seer, and an assassin spy.
Their journey takes them through treacherous lands while facing shapeshifting bears, an ancient witch, harpies, and the nightmarish Djinn, who will stop at nothing to enslave the world.
With every new challenge, Max unlocks the secrets of his unsettling past. Powers awaken within, forcing him to question everything he knows.
Is Max who he thinks he is? Only time and destiny will tell…
Along the way, an unlikely alliance aids in his search—a teenage warrior queen, a three-eyed seer, and an assassin spy.
Their journey takes them through treacherous lands while facing shapeshifting bears, an ancient witch, harpies, and the nightmarish Djinn, who will stop at nothing to enslave the world.
With every new challenge, Max unlocks the secrets of his unsettling past. Powers awaken within, forcing him to question everything he knows.
Is Max who he thinks he is? Only time and destiny will tell…
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2021
About the author
John Peragine
25 books63 followersJohn Peragine is an author of over fourteen books. The Secrets of the Twilight Djinn series was written as a bedtime story for his son Max to cope with medical issues he was facing as a little boy. John is a full-time ghostwriter who lives with his son, wife, and a menagerie of animals on his vineyard overlooking the Mississippi River.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 25, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author, publishing company, and Bookfunnel in exchange for an honest review.
When a young boy named Max loses his parents, he is determined to save them from the dark forces. Will he be able to save them and the world with his new friends? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good Middle grade fantasy novel about friendship, family, and loyalty. If you like these types of books, then be sure to check this book out when it officially hits bookstores and wherever ebooks are sold on April 21, 2021.
When a young boy named Max loses his parents, he is determined to save them from the dark forces. Will he be able to save them and the world with his new friends? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good Middle grade fantasy novel about friendship, family, and loyalty. If you like these types of books, then be sure to check this book out when it officially hits bookstores and wherever ebooks are sold on April 21, 2021.
February 5, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Crumblebee Books for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The book begins with twelve-year-old Max’s mom waking him up for a journey. Everyone believes Max’s father to be dead, but he himself believes that his father is still alive. He is so excited that his mother has woken him up to search for his dad, but unfortunately this is not the case. We learn that Max has a skin condition: if his skin gets too cold, a rash will form all over his body. He is told to follow the Rules and be mindful of this throughout his upcoming travels. Upon their arrival to the ship port, Max’s mom steps away to speak with Captain Cinn. She never returns, and the Spice Pirates end up taking Max under their care.
Overall, I thought this book included too many characters and too little captivating scenes. It was difficult to follow the storyline’s progression at times. Max also “admires” women in a strange way for a twelve-year-old, and I did not find some of his internal dialogue appropriate for middle grade readers. I think this may be better suited as a film or play rather than a novel. The writing style was extremely odd and I feel that if I recommended this to a young reader, he or she would never be able to get through this dull, uninteresting book.
The book begins with twelve-year-old Max’s mom waking him up for a journey. Everyone believes Max’s father to be dead, but he himself believes that his father is still alive. He is so excited that his mother has woken him up to search for his dad, but unfortunately this is not the case. We learn that Max has a skin condition: if his skin gets too cold, a rash will form all over his body. He is told to follow the Rules and be mindful of this throughout his upcoming travels. Upon their arrival to the ship port, Max’s mom steps away to speak with Captain Cinn. She never returns, and the Spice Pirates end up taking Max under their care.
Overall, I thought this book included too many characters and too little captivating scenes. It was difficult to follow the storyline’s progression at times. Max also “admires” women in a strange way for a twelve-year-old, and I did not find some of his internal dialogue appropriate for middle grade readers. I think this may be better suited as a film or play rather than a novel. The writing style was extremely odd and I feel that if I recommended this to a young reader, he or she would never be able to get through this dull, uninteresting book.
August 28, 2021
OMG! This was phenomenal! I am just blown away at how great this was, & how much I LOVED it! This has so much going for it-amazing characters, humor, action, suspense, danger, secrets, pirates, harpies, a witch, kelpies, shape-shifters, djinn, amazing plot & writing!
The action & suspense are just next level. I could not turn the page fast enough. Especially after the story building up to the half way point-from then on I couldn’t put it down, & finished the last half in 1 sitting. This is so unique & creative in many ways too-Max & his backstory, his parents, the Magic system, & the whole backstory of this worlds current problems that goes back to the Witch Queen-fascinating! I also found the spices & the whole politics around them creative & brilliant! Tie in the pirates & how they fit in with the whole spice thing-absolutely LOVED that!
There are more than a few characters, but I had no trouble remembering them-I think because the author introduced them gradually, & not back to back. We got to meet each 1, & get to know their unique personalities, & it was just easy. Amazing job with that. It’s hard to pick, but I think Captain Cinn & Piers have my heart. Both HILARIOUS, with 2 totally different ways of being hilarious though-which makes them even more amazing to me.
If it wasn’t obvious, I was never bored or confused by anything-there was too much awesomeness always happening to be bored lol, & everything was explained with vivid details! I got so hungry with Cinn & his cooking! I felt like I was on the Saucy Pig(ship), & I had a grand time at sea. I love it. Absolutely phenomenal friendships in here, great focus on family, honesty, loyalty, bravery, & more. I cannot wait for book 2! I need it! I hope it will be a long series, because this was just so great, & I’m already so invested in these characters/world & in love. HIGHLY recommend! Stunning cover by Chris O’Brien too!💜
The action & suspense are just next level. I could not turn the page fast enough. Especially after the story building up to the half way point-from then on I couldn’t put it down, & finished the last half in 1 sitting. This is so unique & creative in many ways too-Max & his backstory, his parents, the Magic system, & the whole backstory of this worlds current problems that goes back to the Witch Queen-fascinating! I also found the spices & the whole politics around them creative & brilliant! Tie in the pirates & how they fit in with the whole spice thing-absolutely LOVED that!
There are more than a few characters, but I had no trouble remembering them-I think because the author introduced them gradually, & not back to back. We got to meet each 1, & get to know their unique personalities, & it was just easy. Amazing job with that. It’s hard to pick, but I think Captain Cinn & Piers have my heart. Both HILARIOUS, with 2 totally different ways of being hilarious though-which makes them even more amazing to me.
If it wasn’t obvious, I was never bored or confused by anything-there was too much awesomeness always happening to be bored lol, & everything was explained with vivid details! I got so hungry with Cinn & his cooking! I felt like I was on the Saucy Pig(ship), & I had a grand time at sea. I love it. Absolutely phenomenal friendships in here, great focus on family, honesty, loyalty, bravery, & more. I cannot wait for book 2! I need it! I hope it will be a long series, because this was just so great, & I’m already so invested in these characters/world & in love. HIGHLY recommend! Stunning cover by Chris O’Brien too!💜
April 20, 2021
Ahoy there me mateys! I received this middle grade eArc from NetGalley in exchange for me honest review . . .
Well me scalawags, I always be ready for a sea yarn and this middle grade is packed with pirates, djinn, shapeshifters, an assassin spy, and other unsavory creatures. The highlight of the book be Cap'n Cinn who robs spices from the rich to give to the poor. Because eatin' just hardtack be rough. I be hankerin' for some of Cap'n Cinn's lemon cake or hot chocolate. I very much enjoyed the idea of a world where spices are controlled by a guild.
In this adventure Young Max's parents go missing and his search for them brings him into contact with Cap'n Cinn. This pirate is not an old bitter salty dog like me. Cap'n Cinn is trying to save the world and bring deliciousness to the masses. He won me over. Max is very naïve and silly but extremely good hearted. He likes to believe the best of everyone.
I do think the story will please its target audience. For this older reader, I felt there were too many characters, not enough world building, and a rather convoluted plot. But if the younger reader focuses on the pirates, shapeshifters, and Cap'n Cinn then this novel should float their boat. Arrr!
Well me scalawags, I always be ready for a sea yarn and this middle grade is packed with pirates, djinn, shapeshifters, an assassin spy, and other unsavory creatures. The highlight of the book be Cap'n Cinn who robs spices from the rich to give to the poor. Because eatin' just hardtack be rough. I be hankerin' for some of Cap'n Cinn's lemon cake or hot chocolate. I very much enjoyed the idea of a world where spices are controlled by a guild.
In this adventure Young Max's parents go missing and his search for them brings him into contact with Cap'n Cinn. This pirate is not an old bitter salty dog like me. Cap'n Cinn is trying to save the world and bring deliciousness to the masses. He won me over. Max is very naïve and silly but extremely good hearted. He likes to believe the best of everyone.
I do think the story will please its target audience. For this older reader, I felt there were too many characters, not enough world building, and a rather convoluted plot. But if the younger reader focuses on the pirates, shapeshifters, and Cap'n Cinn then this novel should float their boat. Arrr!
April 12, 2021
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Full review on the blog.
Max and the Spice Thieves is a fun whirlwind of an adventure with clever worldbuilding and great characters. However, the rushed ending put me off, as did romance that felt forced and totally unnecessary. I would still recommend this to anyone who is a fan of daredevil adventure and vibrant, diverse world-building!
Full review on the blog.
Max and the Spice Thieves is a fun whirlwind of an adventure with clever worldbuilding and great characters. However, the rushed ending put me off, as did romance that felt forced and totally unnecessary. I would still recommend this to anyone who is a fan of daredevil adventure and vibrant, diverse world-building!
April 14, 2021
I was invited to download an eARC of Max and the Spice Thieves via NetGalley when someone on the author's team found my other reviews on Instagram, and I accepted. A couple of months later XPresso Book Tours put out a call for tour hosts for this title around the time I was planning to fit it into my schedule anyway, so I figured why not and hopped on board. This does mean I was technically offered eARC access twice, and I do think I would have picked this one up either through XPresso's tour or just browsing SFF titles on NetGalley (in fact my NetGalley dashboard recommended it to me as well!) but I would like to sincerely thank everyone who invited me to read and review. This has not swayed my opinion; my thoughts are my own and my review is honest.
Blog tour post (14 April 2021 6:30am EST) https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
Max and the Spice Thieves is a middle-grade fantasy adventure about a boy named Max with a severe dermal allergy to the cold who inadvertently finds himself missing both of his parents and acting as a member of the crew on a "pirate" ship of sorts in a world where spices are luxuriously valuable, sea monsters are real, and not everything is as it seems. When Max begins to experience an awakening of power he didn't know he had, everything he thought he knew about his life and the world around him is going to change.
At first I was tempted to compare this book to contemporaries in the genre, like Riordan's Percy Jackson novels, but the further I went along the more I thought of Homer's The Odessy and The Iliad. I was about to graduate high school and no longer interested in anything that could be classified as a children's book when Riordan started publishing, so Percy Jackson isn't a nostalgic reference for me but rather something I stumbled across later in life. Homer is what I was reading in middle school. This is a more fun, more age-appropriately worded alternative. (Thank you for thinking so highly of us 12 year olds, Mrs Jakubec, but I doubt the majority of my peers appreciated 9th century Greek literature as much as I did.) Regardless of which camp of epic journey with fantastical Greek elements you choose to pitch your tent in, I do think Max and the Spice Thieves will offer something invitingly familiar.
That's not to say that this book isn't unique, because it absolutely is! This story may have familiar bones, but the configuration and flesh are completely new. I've never read a character quite like Max or Captain Cinn (I love Captain Cinn!) and the idea of someone whose driving goal in life is to get a little spice into the hands of as many people as possible is so charming. I do think both the intended audience and older readers alike will be able to find something to love in this book.
My one big stumbling point here and the reason it's not a 5 star perfection contender is that the size of the cast and the breakneck pacing through a staggering number of important plot events seem to have been stuffed into too few pages. There's no breathing room in here. Quite often I'll critique books for being 50-100 pages too long, but this one is 50-100 pages too short. I have high hopes that pacing and cast overcrowding issues will smooth out as the series continues.
Thanks again to everyone who invited me to read this book. You were all right on the money suggesting that I would enjoy it! I recommend this book to all middle-grade fantasy lovers and all lovers of epic journeys with fantastical elements or mythology influences.
Blog tour post (14 April 2021 6:30am EST) https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
Max and the Spice Thieves is a middle-grade fantasy adventure about a boy named Max with a severe dermal allergy to the cold who inadvertently finds himself missing both of his parents and acting as a member of the crew on a "pirate" ship of sorts in a world where spices are luxuriously valuable, sea monsters are real, and not everything is as it seems. When Max begins to experience an awakening of power he didn't know he had, everything he thought he knew about his life and the world around him is going to change.
At first I was tempted to compare this book to contemporaries in the genre, like Riordan's Percy Jackson novels, but the further I went along the more I thought of Homer's The Odessy and The Iliad. I was about to graduate high school and no longer interested in anything that could be classified as a children's book when Riordan started publishing, so Percy Jackson isn't a nostalgic reference for me but rather something I stumbled across later in life. Homer is what I was reading in middle school. This is a more fun, more age-appropriately worded alternative. (Thank you for thinking so highly of us 12 year olds, Mrs Jakubec, but I doubt the majority of my peers appreciated 9th century Greek literature as much as I did.) Regardless of which camp of epic journey with fantastical Greek elements you choose to pitch your tent in, I do think Max and the Spice Thieves will offer something invitingly familiar.
That's not to say that this book isn't unique, because it absolutely is! This story may have familiar bones, but the configuration and flesh are completely new. I've never read a character quite like Max or Captain Cinn (I love Captain Cinn!) and the idea of someone whose driving goal in life is to get a little spice into the hands of as many people as possible is so charming. I do think both the intended audience and older readers alike will be able to find something to love in this book.
My one big stumbling point here and the reason it's not a 5 star perfection contender is that the size of the cast and the breakneck pacing through a staggering number of important plot events seem to have been stuffed into too few pages. There's no breathing room in here. Quite often I'll critique books for being 50-100 pages too long, but this one is 50-100 pages too short. I have high hopes that pacing and cast overcrowding issues will smooth out as the series continues.
Thanks again to everyone who invited me to read this book. You were all right on the money suggesting that I would enjoy it! I recommend this book to all middle-grade fantasy lovers and all lovers of epic journeys with fantastical elements or mythology influences.
June 8, 2021
This book is very interesting and is absolutely perfect for middle graders to enjoy. It begins when Max and his mother decide to take a trip, and quickly turns into an adventure when he and his mother lose each other along the way. Max ends up having to accept help from pirates, and sets out not only to find his mother... but hopes to find his missing father as well.
The story is filled to the brim with magical creatures and high adventure. I think it would make an excellent gift, or an addition to a summer reading list.
The story is filled to the brim with magical creatures and high adventure. I think it would make an excellent gift, or an addition to a summer reading list.
Did Not Finish
December 23, 2020Arc received from Netgalley for an honest review
DNF at 40%
Rating; Roughly 3 Stars
This book had potential to be really good. Considering I'm not in the age range of this book (though I still love middle grade), it wasn't interesting enough for me. I wasn't invested in the characters enough, and often found myself drifting off mentally because of this.
That being said, I enjoyed the aspect of the food and spices. It made my mouth water multiple times. I enjoyed learning more about Max and what exactly was happening in his life. He was probably one of my favourite characters in the book.
I think this would be an enjoyable read for a lot of people, especially in the demographic this was written for.
Regardless, there could have been more to hook the reader, and make me want to continue reading, but I'd say give it a try anyways, and test it out yourself.
DNF at 40%
Rating; Roughly 3 Stars
This book had potential to be really good. Considering I'm not in the age range of this book (though I still love middle grade), it wasn't interesting enough for me. I wasn't invested in the characters enough, and often found myself drifting off mentally because of this.
That being said, I enjoyed the aspect of the food and spices. It made my mouth water multiple times. I enjoyed learning more about Max and what exactly was happening in his life. He was probably one of my favourite characters in the book.
I think this would be an enjoyable read for a lot of people, especially in the demographic this was written for.
Regardless, there could have been more to hook the reader, and make me want to continue reading, but I'd say give it a try anyways, and test it out yourself.
December 12, 2020
A Spectacular Journey of Fantastical Proportion: A review by Angela Amberden
Max and the Spice Thieves was given to me by its exceptionally talented author, John Peragine in the hopes that I would give it an honest review. As I am unable to do anything else, I hope that other’s find it useful and heed my warning. Do not pick up this hefty tomb unless you have some free time because you are not going to want to put it down! From it’s first pages you are drafted into Max’s exciting journey and promised an adventure in no uncertain terms. Strap in!
While the promise of wild ride is evident, what develops along the way is a deep connection and affection for Max and his family. The main characters, as well those in supporting roles are beautifully written and multifaceted. You care about the peril they find themselves in and root for their triumphs.
As a mother of a young but avid reader I was excited to share this novel with my son and thoroughly enjoyed seeing his face light up with camaraderie, seeing Max’s escapade’s through his eyes. A perfect balance of danger and excitement, without pandering to its younger readers, I would recommend Spice Thieves to readers nine and above.
The heart that this story was written with is evident in the relationships that Max has and makes with others in the story. It is those connections that carry the reader along, the quest richer and more exciting because of them, instead of distracting. I would recommend this book to anyone who has a heart for adventure, you will be greatly rewarded, but the soul of this story will stay with you long after the last page.
Max and the Spice Thieves was given to me by its exceptionally talented author, John Peragine in the hopes that I would give it an honest review. As I am unable to do anything else, I hope that other’s find it useful and heed my warning. Do not pick up this hefty tomb unless you have some free time because you are not going to want to put it down! From it’s first pages you are drafted into Max’s exciting journey and promised an adventure in no uncertain terms. Strap in!
While the promise of wild ride is evident, what develops along the way is a deep connection and affection for Max and his family. The main characters, as well those in supporting roles are beautifully written and multifaceted. You care about the peril they find themselves in and root for their triumphs.
As a mother of a young but avid reader I was excited to share this novel with my son and thoroughly enjoyed seeing his face light up with camaraderie, seeing Max’s escapade’s through his eyes. A perfect balance of danger and excitement, without pandering to its younger readers, I would recommend Spice Thieves to readers nine and above.
The heart that this story was written with is evident in the relationships that Max has and makes with others in the story. It is those connections that carry the reader along, the quest richer and more exciting because of them, instead of distracting. I would recommend this book to anyone who has a heart for adventure, you will be greatly rewarded, but the soul of this story will stay with you long after the last page.
April 8, 2021
For this and more reviews, check out my blog
I received the eARC of the book from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Max and the Spice Thieves is a nice story, with plenty of adventure and good worldbuilding. However, I wasn’t a huge fan of the writing.
The story is about Max Daybreaker, whose mother suddenly goes missing. Lucky for him, a crew of Spice Pirates, led by Captain Cinn, offer to help Max with his quest, crossing the three seas. He gains even more unlikely allies: a teenage warrior queen, a three-eyed seer, and an assassin spy. They face treacherous lands with shape-shifting bears, an ancient witch, harpies, and the Djinn, who will stop at nothing to enslave the world. The further Max gets in his quest, the more secrets he learns about his past. Powers start to waken within him, forcing him to question everything he knows.
The story in Max and the Spice Thieves has all the adventure you could want. There’s an evil prince, Snow Bears, a Witch, and of course, the Djinn. We experience a few different places in the story that were all imaginative and detailed. It’s a real ‘love conquers all’ type of story.
Max is a brave kid who just wants to save his parents. However, his magic felt somewhat random, and the way he thinks shifts a lot between adult and very young kid. I didn’t actually think he changed all that much throughout the story. It was also unclear whether he thought his father was dead or not, which really decreased the impact of some of the twists in the story.
I did love Captain Cinn, the pirate that takes care of Max when his mother goes missing. He tries to do what he can to keep Max safe. He’s not a typical pirate, and I thought that was refreshing.
There is some blurred line in the story between ‘good’ and ‘bad,’ which I can appreciate, but it was also a tad confusing. And since this story is targeted at children, they might find it confusing too. One such confusing thing was the Witch. When we first learn about her, she’s described as an evil being. However, later on, she’s also considered helpful. In fact: she’s the only one they can go to for help. So, what is she? Whose side is she on?
I feel it’s these kinds of ambiguities in the story that let it down.
Another thing that let it down was the dialogue—it didn’t feel real to me. Often, Max would also think something and immediately say it, which I felt slowed the pace. The dialogue was also often used to explain things, which led to some info dumps that weren’t quite interesting.
Max and the Spice Thieves is an entertaining adventure story that I do believe kids will enjoy. It’s fun, and it’s easy to read. If you don’t mind the writing being a tad clunky and do love reading about witches, shapeshifting creatures, and interesting worlds, then you should definitely give the book a try.
For this and more reviews, check out my blog
I received the eARC of the book from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Max and the Spice Thieves is a nice story, with plenty of adventure and good worldbuilding. However, I wasn’t a huge fan of the writing.
The story is about Max Daybreaker, whose mother suddenly goes missing. Lucky for him, a crew of Spice Pirates, led by Captain Cinn, offer to help Max with his quest, crossing the three seas. He gains even more unlikely allies: a teenage warrior queen, a three-eyed seer, and an assassin spy. They face treacherous lands with shape-shifting bears, an ancient witch, harpies, and the Djinn, who will stop at nothing to enslave the world. The further Max gets in his quest, the more secrets he learns about his past. Powers start to waken within him, forcing him to question everything he knows.
The story in Max and the Spice Thieves has all the adventure you could want. There’s an evil prince, Snow Bears, a Witch, and of course, the Djinn. We experience a few different places in the story that were all imaginative and detailed. It’s a real ‘love conquers all’ type of story.
Max is a brave kid who just wants to save his parents. However, his magic felt somewhat random, and the way he thinks shifts a lot between adult and very young kid. I didn’t actually think he changed all that much throughout the story. It was also unclear whether he thought his father was dead or not, which really decreased the impact of some of the twists in the story.
I did love Captain Cinn, the pirate that takes care of Max when his mother goes missing. He tries to do what he can to keep Max safe. He’s not a typical pirate, and I thought that was refreshing.
There is some blurred line in the story between ‘good’ and ‘bad,’ which I can appreciate, but it was also a tad confusing. And since this story is targeted at children, they might find it confusing too. One such confusing thing was the Witch. When we first learn about her, she’s described as an evil being. However, later on, she’s also considered helpful. In fact: she’s the only one they can go to for help. So, what is she? Whose side is she on?
I feel it’s these kinds of ambiguities in the story that let it down.
Another thing that let it down was the dialogue—it didn’t feel real to me. Often, Max would also think something and immediately say it, which I felt slowed the pace. The dialogue was also often used to explain things, which led to some info dumps that weren’t quite interesting.
Max and the Spice Thieves is an entertaining adventure story that I do believe kids will enjoy. It’s fun, and it’s easy to read. If you don’t mind the writing being a tad clunky and do love reading about witches, shapeshifting creatures, and interesting worlds, then you should definitely give the book a try.
For this and more reviews, check out my blog
Did Not Finish
June 3, 2021I stopped reading before 20% – which is usually my standard ‘if I’m not interested by this point, I put it down’ percentage. This looked interesting from the synopsis and it sadly went down from there.
Honestly, I just wasn’t interested in anything that went in the little bit that I read. Not in the characters, the tiny bit of starting plot I got, not even the premise of thieves could get me interested. Like I can’t even tell you anything about the characters because I couldn’t get myself into wanting to know more about them.
I do get upset when I realise I’m not interested in a book but then again sometimes you don’t click with a book. But also I’m glad that I realise when I’m truly not into a book and leave before I have to force myself to finish it.
Honestly, I just wasn’t interested in anything that went in the little bit that I read. Not in the characters, the tiny bit of starting plot I got, not even the premise of thieves could get me interested. Like I can’t even tell you anything about the characters because I couldn’t get myself into wanting to know more about them.
I do get upset when I realise I’m not interested in a book but then again sometimes you don’t click with a book. But also I’m glad that I realise when I’m truly not into a book and leave before I have to force myself to finish it.
February 3, 2021
When his mother goes missing, Max Daybreaker’s world is turned upside down. Luckily, a crew of Spice Pirates, led by the mysterious Captain Cinn, help Max on his dangerous mission across the three seas.
Along the way, an unlikely alliance aids in his search—a teenage warrior queen, a three-eyed seer, and an assassin spy.
Their journey takes them through treacherous lands while facing shapeshifting bears, an ancient witch, harpies, and the nightmarish Djinn, who will stop at nothing to enslave the world.
With every new challenge, Max unlocks the secrets of his unsettling past. Powers awaken within, forcing him to question everything he knows.
Is Max who he thinks he is? Only time and destiny will tell…
This book has became one of my favorite books of all times. In Max and the spice thieves you will be on a thrilling ride this book keeps you hooked till the very last word. Can't wait to get my hands on the next one. I will be telling anyone I know to pick this one up!
Along the way, an unlikely alliance aids in his search—a teenage warrior queen, a three-eyed seer, and an assassin spy.
Their journey takes them through treacherous lands while facing shapeshifting bears, an ancient witch, harpies, and the nightmarish Djinn, who will stop at nothing to enslave the world.
With every new challenge, Max unlocks the secrets of his unsettling past. Powers awaken within, forcing him to question everything he knows.
Is Max who he thinks he is? Only time and destiny will tell…
This book has became one of my favorite books of all times. In Max and the spice thieves you will be on a thrilling ride this book keeps you hooked till the very last word. Can't wait to get my hands on the next one. I will be telling anyone I know to pick this one up!
July 2, 2021
My 13-year-old son read this book, and he never put it down since he started it. Things he loved about it include its unique storytelling devices, the setting, and the themes. For example, the story is written around a special spice trade, which was unique for a children's book. Instead of a King, it was a Sultan. It also had a bit of the aesthetic of Britain, when they had the guilds, which was reminiscent of the Revolutionary War when the British guilds were very active. My son is a big history buff, but also loves fantasy and stories of adventure. This captivated him, had him smiling as he read, and he kept telling me it was so different with characters that were unique from other stories. The author took a load of care in crafting some truly different experiences for readers. My son highly recommends it!
January 5, 2021
I was drawn to this book by the cover and its blurb and I just had to read it.
I loved reading Max's book as I read and got to know Max and be taken along for the brilliant adventure!
The characters are amazing. The use of herbs as weapons is wonderfully brilliant! This was a fantastic read and I loved ever single second of it
I loved reading Max's book as I read and got to know Max and be taken along for the brilliant adventure!
The characters are amazing. The use of herbs as weapons is wonderfully brilliant! This was a fantastic read and I loved ever single second of it
March 30, 2021
Actual Rating: 2.25 Stars.
Before we get into the meat of this review, I have to say a quick thank you to Netgalley and the publishers over at Crumblebee Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Max and the Spice Thieves is a Middle Grade Fantasy book that is the start of a brand new series. Max must pair up with Captain Cinn and his crew of Spice Thieves when his mother goes missing. But he discovers that his life is far different than he imagined when he learns about his own magical powers. The book comes out on April 20th. Max and the Spice Thieves is available for preorder now.
Part of me really wants to say that the problems with this book stem from the fact that I’m not part of the target audience. I’m 31 and the main character is 12. So...yeah, I’m probably going to have some problems getting into this one. But I don’t think all of that can be blamed on the age discrepancy between target audience and actual reader. I think my main problem here really comes from issues with the authorial voice. The author has character who are all ages--Max and his friends are preteens, Captain Cinn and his crew are all adults--and somehow both feel deeply untrue for people in those age ranges. The children aren’t just precocious children who might have a slightly bigger vocabulary than most. They don’t sound like children. But the grown ups don’t sound like grown ups either. It’s like the author was writing a book about a kid for kids. But then realized that they needed to make sure if an adult was reading it to their child that they knew that a lot of what happens in the books aren’t things the author would condone. Which was just a weird thing to be thinking about while reading this adventure book.
The book felt like everything happened too fast. We travel all over the place with Max and his friends but I never felt like I really got a deep understanding of the locations or the people. The magic system also felt like it was under explored. Maybe it will go further into how the magic works in the next book.
But I will say that even with the problems I had in this book I still loved almost all of the characters. I want to know more about Piers’s past. And Lindzy is going to be one badass queen some day. I think if you have middle grade readers in your life this can be a good option for them and I think there might be enough in there for you to enjoy while you’re reading with them.
Before we get into the meat of this review, I have to say a quick thank you to Netgalley and the publishers over at Crumblebee Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Max and the Spice Thieves is a Middle Grade Fantasy book that is the start of a brand new series. Max must pair up with Captain Cinn and his crew of Spice Thieves when his mother goes missing. But he discovers that his life is far different than he imagined when he learns about his own magical powers. The book comes out on April 20th. Max and the Spice Thieves is available for preorder now.
Part of me really wants to say that the problems with this book stem from the fact that I’m not part of the target audience. I’m 31 and the main character is 12. So...yeah, I’m probably going to have some problems getting into this one. But I don’t think all of that can be blamed on the age discrepancy between target audience and actual reader. I think my main problem here really comes from issues with the authorial voice. The author has character who are all ages--Max and his friends are preteens, Captain Cinn and his crew are all adults--and somehow both feel deeply untrue for people in those age ranges. The children aren’t just precocious children who might have a slightly bigger vocabulary than most. They don’t sound like children. But the grown ups don’t sound like grown ups either. It’s like the author was writing a book about a kid for kids. But then realized that they needed to make sure if an adult was reading it to their child that they knew that a lot of what happens in the books aren’t things the author would condone. Which was just a weird thing to be thinking about while reading this adventure book.
The book felt like everything happened too fast. We travel all over the place with Max and his friends but I never felt like I really got a deep understanding of the locations or the people. The magic system also felt like it was under explored. Maybe it will go further into how the magic works in the next book.
But I will say that even with the problems I had in this book I still loved almost all of the characters. I want to know more about Piers’s past. And Lindzy is going to be one badass queen some day. I think if you have middle grade readers in your life this can be a good option for them and I think there might be enough in there for you to enjoy while you’re reading with them.
May 4, 2021
I received a free copy from Crumblebee Books through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Max Daybreaker has a problem. His father hasn’t returned home for several weeks and his mother disappeared in a cloud of mysterious black smoke. At the age of twelve, Max is on his own when a swaggering spice pirate, Captain Cinn, and his companion, Piers, find him. Embarking on an adventure to find his family, Max encounters princes, kelpies, witches, sirens, snow bears, and a lot of magic. As secrets of the islands unravel, Max discovers the truth about himself and his family, but will it be in time to save them?
Well, this middle grade book was just fun! I very much enjoyed the novel and it was a quick read for an older audience. I would have definitely appreciated this book when I was in the target demographic, so I think this novel is a win.
In terms of the characters, Max’s innocent naivete was at times both endearing and irritating, but he remained an established protagonist to root for. Captain Cinn evokes some Jack Sparrow comparisons, but the differences are enough that one can appreciate both characters on their own. The remainder of the supporting cast, Piers, Linzy, Anya, Sal, Mensha, Timbu, and Annalinda, were also unique and likeable. Each of these characters offered something to the party, and with so many supporting characters, it feels like there is much more to explore with each, particularly since a magical character noted interesting pieces of backstory about several of them that were not revealed in this volume.
The world building was somewhat scarce as Max, and, by extension, the reader, was immediately whisked away to adventures in various lands. However, there was enough explanation to offer some view of the various islands and cultures encountered, which was backed up by a fantasy world map at the beginning of the novel. As a part of the world building, magic is also clearly established within this universe, and though the magic system’s rules were often unclear, I was willing to suspend my belief because the novel just seemed to be having fun playing within the constructed world.
If you’re looking for an adventure, I definitely think Max and the Spice Thieves delivers. I know I will be looking for the sequel to discover what mischief Max and his friends encounter next.
Max Daybreaker has a problem. His father hasn’t returned home for several weeks and his mother disappeared in a cloud of mysterious black smoke. At the age of twelve, Max is on his own when a swaggering spice pirate, Captain Cinn, and his companion, Piers, find him. Embarking on an adventure to find his family, Max encounters princes, kelpies, witches, sirens, snow bears, and a lot of magic. As secrets of the islands unravel, Max discovers the truth about himself and his family, but will it be in time to save them?
Well, this middle grade book was just fun! I very much enjoyed the novel and it was a quick read for an older audience. I would have definitely appreciated this book when I was in the target demographic, so I think this novel is a win.
In terms of the characters, Max’s innocent naivete was at times both endearing and irritating, but he remained an established protagonist to root for. Captain Cinn evokes some Jack Sparrow comparisons, but the differences are enough that one can appreciate both characters on their own. The remainder of the supporting cast, Piers, Linzy, Anya, Sal, Mensha, Timbu, and Annalinda, were also unique and likeable. Each of these characters offered something to the party, and with so many supporting characters, it feels like there is much more to explore with each, particularly since a magical character noted interesting pieces of backstory about several of them that were not revealed in this volume.
The world building was somewhat scarce as Max, and, by extension, the reader, was immediately whisked away to adventures in various lands. However, there was enough explanation to offer some view of the various islands and cultures encountered, which was backed up by a fantasy world map at the beginning of the novel. As a part of the world building, magic is also clearly established within this universe, and though the magic system’s rules were often unclear, I was willing to suspend my belief because the novel just seemed to be having fun playing within the constructed world.
If you’re looking for an adventure, I definitely think Max and the Spice Thieves delivers. I know I will be looking for the sequel to discover what mischief Max and his friends encounter next.
March 31, 2021
I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for this honest review!
It's been quite awhile since I've read a novel that was geared more towards children but I truly enjoyed Max and the Spice Thieves. An intriguing plot that moves along and a clipping pace (which I rather like), engaging and entertaining characters, and a very unique magic system that seemed well-described.
While this is definitely written for a younger audience, I didn't really feel like I wasn't going to enjoy it. The book covers some heavier topics, doesn't shy away from fight scenes and even death, and it's refreshing to see something written for children that didn't hold its punches. I really, really enjoyed that.
Max is a likable protagonist, always questioning the motives of others-- both the good and the bad. He's blunt about what is and is not moral, but at the same time incredibly black and white on certain things until he learns that there's nuance to the world. I think it is a little cliche that everyone loves him so much at the get-go, but that's why I appreciated the character Timbur-- He didn't and he was very vocal about it, even if Max was a kid.
I did, however, like that all of the adults in the book didn't treat him like a child who couldn't handle his own-- everyone saw his value and strength, and I think that lets Max develop and grow into a well-formed character.
I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book so much, but the witty and snappy dialogue, and-- honestly funny prose-- found me reading right through to the end. Excited for the next book!
It's been quite awhile since I've read a novel that was geared more towards children but I truly enjoyed Max and the Spice Thieves. An intriguing plot that moves along and a clipping pace (which I rather like), engaging and entertaining characters, and a very unique magic system that seemed well-described.
While this is definitely written for a younger audience, I didn't really feel like I wasn't going to enjoy it. The book covers some heavier topics, doesn't shy away from fight scenes and even death, and it's refreshing to see something written for children that didn't hold its punches. I really, really enjoyed that.
Max is a likable protagonist, always questioning the motives of others-- both the good and the bad. He's blunt about what is and is not moral, but at the same time incredibly black and white on certain things until he learns that there's nuance to the world. I think it is a little cliche that everyone loves him so much at the get-go, but that's why I appreciated the character Timbur-- He didn't and he was very vocal about it, even if Max was a kid.
I did, however, like that all of the adults in the book didn't treat him like a child who couldn't handle his own-- everyone saw his value and strength, and I think that lets Max develop and grow into a well-formed character.
I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book so much, but the witty and snappy dialogue, and-- honestly funny prose-- found me reading right through to the end. Excited for the next book!
December 22, 2020
Max finds himself lost at sea trying to find his mother who disappeared from the dock as he waited for her. Captain Cinn, a spice pirate aboard the Saucy Pig, takes Max on a journey across the high seas looking for his mother. Cinn knows some secretes about Max’s family, Max’s father’s death, and his mother’s disappearance. The best part of being on Captain Cinn’s ship is the food. Readers can almost smell and taste the delicious food being prepared. After meeting the Witch Queen, Max is sent on a mission that is supposed to bring balance to a world on the brink of war. Max needs the help of his friends to get there but on the journey he learns more about his family history and the power of his will to succeed.
The plot is quite complex as Max learns more about the world by meeting a wide range of characters. Each time the Saucy Pig find a new port, the cast grows and it is a little challenging to keep up. Some of the characters aren’t as memorable as others. The magical adventures includes beasts, monsters, harpies, and more. The world is well described for its vastness and diversity. It will be easy for readers to hold an image in their mind. Younger readers will enjoy the traps, mishaps, and peril; however, some might feel overwhelmed by the fast-paced plot, complicated world building, and large number of characters. It takes a little while to get to the main conflict and the ending intentionally sets up a second book. At the end, the reader will feel some closure and happiness but also know there will be continued tension.
#netgalley
The plot is quite complex as Max learns more about the world by meeting a wide range of characters. Each time the Saucy Pig find a new port, the cast grows and it is a little challenging to keep up. Some of the characters aren’t as memorable as others. The magical adventures includes beasts, monsters, harpies, and more. The world is well described for its vastness and diversity. It will be easy for readers to hold an image in their mind. Younger readers will enjoy the traps, mishaps, and peril; however, some might feel overwhelmed by the fast-paced plot, complicated world building, and large number of characters. It takes a little while to get to the main conflict and the ending intentionally sets up a second book. At the end, the reader will feel some closure and happiness but also know there will be continued tension.
#netgalley
March 15, 2021
Max and the spice thieves is a fantasy fiction story filled with adventure, thrill, and dangerous missions. The story begins with Max Daybreaker looking for his mother. She has disappeared, and he has no idea what’s happened to her. Luckily a crew of Pirates, led by Captain Cinn, help Max on this journey.
The well-written story trends on so many fantasy material concepts that the reader easily falls into this world of magic. The literature is descriptive and fast-paced. The story really pulled together, and the characters were all relatable and likable. This happened to be book one, and for that reason, the ending did not necessarily close all loose ends.
The elements embodied in the storyline were all synced together, and it was apparent that the tale was geared for the younger audience. This was motioned from the dialogue and interactions between the characters.
I particularly enjoyed the love Max had for his parents. The sense of responsibility and want to stand for what he had promised to his Dad was admirable. I recommend this to anyone who is interested in reading young adult material and enjoys reading well-written literature.
The well-written story trends on so many fantasy material concepts that the reader easily falls into this world of magic. The literature is descriptive and fast-paced. The story really pulled together, and the characters were all relatable and likable. This happened to be book one, and for that reason, the ending did not necessarily close all loose ends.
The elements embodied in the storyline were all synced together, and it was apparent that the tale was geared for the younger audience. This was motioned from the dialogue and interactions between the characters.
I particularly enjoyed the love Max had for his parents. The sense of responsibility and want to stand for what he had promised to his Dad was admirable. I recommend this to anyone who is interested in reading young adult material and enjoys reading well-written literature.
April 14, 2021
Let’s talk about the cover of Max and the Spice Thieves by John Peragine before we dive into the story. What an impressive cover. I’m outside of the targeted age range, since this is middle grade, but I would still pick this one up if I saw it in the bookstore.
Speaking of middle grade, I think the best stories in this genre can be read by older people as well. This story was very entertaining and I was intrigued to keep reading.
The world building is so creative. I really love being drawn into a story, and feeling part of the world. John Peragine was able to make this happen with his writing.
I think Max is an excellent main character to follow. I really think he’s relatable.
Overall, this was a fun read. I’d definitely recommend giving it a shot!
*I received a free copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Speaking of middle grade, I think the best stories in this genre can be read by older people as well. This story was very entertaining and I was intrigued to keep reading.
The world building is so creative. I really love being drawn into a story, and feeling part of the world. John Peragine was able to make this happen with his writing.
I think Max is an excellent main character to follow. I really think he’s relatable.
Overall, this was a fun read. I’d definitely recommend giving it a shot!
*I received a free copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
May 18, 2021
I saw this book and I knew I had to try it, even though I don’t often read middle grade books. Max and the Spice Thieves is a remarkable adventure for readers of any age. Non-stop action, all sorts of heroes, villains, magic and a family’s peril kept me engrossed from start to finish.
Max is an engaging young boy, whose mission to save his mother becomes so much more. Keeping company with a pirate, Max meets a variety of characters, including a young queen, a witch and some talking polar bears. I loved the mix of characters, the unending search for mom, and the constant peril.
Max and the Spice Thieves is a true page-turner. Be prepared to read late into the night. The ending was perfect, especially since I was hoping for more adventures for Max and his friends. Did I say I don’t read middle grade books? Well, maybe one or two…
Through NetGalley, the publisher provided a copy of this book so that I could bring you this review.
Max is an engaging young boy, whose mission to save his mother becomes so much more. Keeping company with a pirate, Max meets a variety of characters, including a young queen, a witch and some talking polar bears. I loved the mix of characters, the unending search for mom, and the constant peril.
Max and the Spice Thieves is a true page-turner. Be prepared to read late into the night. The ending was perfect, especially since I was hoping for more adventures for Max and his friends. Did I say I don’t read middle grade books? Well, maybe one or two…
Through NetGalley, the publisher provided a copy of this book so that I could bring you this review.
April 1, 2021
This wasn’t my usual read so I was excited to try it. It’s a really good adventure story, easy to read and follow and the story changes and developments every chapter really helping keep you gripped to the adventure and wanting to know what happens next. The author has really made it feel like your actually there travelling with max throughout the journey through his vivid description. I took a point off because I do feel it’s missing something maybe a little more action, however as it’s book one I feel it was more of a set the scene of things to come type of book. I loved the ending and the twist and it really makes me think there’s a lot more to come.
Would definitely continue reading the series to find out what happens next!
I received this free for reviewing purposes, nevertheless this is a review of my true thoughts and feelings towards this book.
Would definitely continue reading the series to find out what happens next!
I received this free for reviewing purposes, nevertheless this is a review of my true thoughts and feelings towards this book.
February 7, 2021
I read this book in two days. It was the first book in a while where I absolutely could not put it down. I was totally engrossed in Max’s world and his adventures. Speaking of the world, it is a magical, swashbuckling one filled with colorful and interesting far off places. It was nice to imagine myself there with Max and his motley crew. Not only is this book endlessly action packed but the characters are standout. Their voices are fresh and their layers rich. Captain Cinn was my absolute favorite followed closely by Linzey (who is a total feminist badass). The whole book brought me back to my pre-teen days reading Harry Potter which was such a wonderful, nostalgic feeling! This is a fantastic family read as it would appeal to all ages!
February 22, 2022
A middle school book that tells the fantasy adventure of Max as he travels with Spice Pirates. Adventures await ranging from shape-shifting Snow Bears, Witch Queens, magical wizards. The reader travels across the seas to help Max find his parents. Stay attentive as the language used by the author to describe places, people, actions and feelings is part of the story itself. Captain Cinn is a master chef, perhaps a play on the word cinnamon; the family lives in Paradisi, certainly a paradise; Max is called Little Bear at the beginning of the tale reflective of his later shift to become a Snow Bear. These subtle clues compliment the story line. And also there is a “tale” within the story that mirrors the travels of Max and his pirate and other magical companions.
This is a complex tale filled with magic, dynamic characters and plot twists. It ends with a set-up for another volume of adventure for Max which young readers will be eager to read.
This is a complex tale filled with magic, dynamic characters and plot twists. It ends with a set-up for another volume of adventure for Max which young readers will be eager to read.
December 10, 2020
An action-packed adventure that will delight Middle Grade readers. Max is on an epic journey to save his family with the help of some quirky characters --- human, and otherwise….. The author’s mechanism for constructing magical powers is very well done, and adds to the attraction of young Max, as well as his credibility. My only very slight disappointment was a bit of a ‘rabbit out of the hat’ climax with an unexpected character popping out of nowhere, but otherwise a great page turner. The seeds are planted for an exciting sequel.
January 26, 2021
I had more fun reading this book, than i have in a long time. the characters were created and presented in such believable fashion. They fit into the story, and you expected much from them, and the author delivered. The world was creative and new to me, and that made it all the more fun. Thanks for helping this bad bad year end with a smile. (I copied my review because i could not think of anything more I could say, this was a fantastic book full of adventure and fun). Now I see that they are not too far from giving us another volume to follow this amazing story. I cant wait.
March 29, 2022
This was a cute middle grade Adventure series. It had all the things going for it that could have made it an epic adventure, however it fell a little short for me.
Some of the characters were very engaging like Max and Cinin, however some fell flat and felt like they could have been developed better. The pushing of the romance with a second love interest was a little much for me. However, all in all who doesn't love a pirate series and the development of a scooby gang to help find the target.
Some of the characters were very engaging like Max and Cinin, however some fell flat and felt like they could have been developed better. The pushing of the romance with a second love interest was a little much for me. However, all in all who doesn't love a pirate series and the development of a scooby gang to help find the target.
December 15, 2020
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this fantastic journey from author, John Peragine for an honest review. Max and the Spice Thieves, a tale of a boy trying to save his family, is an engaging story—difficult to put down. I could clearly see the mind movie as I read which is what I look for in a story. I can’t wait to read future installments in Max’s journey. I recommend Max and the Spice Thieves for Middle School and beyond.
February 13, 2021
Max is a quiet, sheltered boy that is tossed into a great adventure in trying to find his Mom and I loved the development of this ackward boy growing up a bit in his journey. I thought the pace was fast and exciting and the plot twists were very original. Kudos to the author for his creativity.!
I loved the focus on family, growth in love to all, and the kindness of Max treating everyone with trust, until/unless they hurt him.
Great fun and it made me eager for the next book!
I loved the focus on family, growth in love to all, and the kindness of Max treating everyone with trust, until/unless they hurt him.
Great fun and it made me eager for the next book!
April 20, 2022
So I'm pretty biased since I met the author before I read his book and we got along quite well but I swear I'm not lying when I say I genuinely enjoyed this book. I don't read a lot of tween fiction anymore so I had to keep reminding myself that if I was 12 reading this it would be a perfect level for my understanding. It also would make the best bed time story. The audio book just came out and I'm tempted to buy it as a bedtime story for myself the narrator was a perfect pick! The story is engaging the world building is well fleshed out with just enough clues throughout the book that I didn't see anything coming yet it all made perfect sense. I already have the second book and I'll be starting it as soon as possible!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews