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Finding Refuge: A Modern Fantasy
Life in Castle, Washington will never be the same.
Hanna has something to prove. Living under her father and peer’s overprotection has pushed her to the edge. She longs for her strength to be recognized. Focusing on schooling and passing unwanted responsibility back to its source, she cannot wait to break free. In Hanna’s desire to be heard, she finds it in the most unlikely source, a mysterious young man named Caspian.
Caspian has nothing left. His world and home are gone. All he wants is a clean slate to start over. Hollowshine’s leader has other plans in mind. Dragged into the politics of war and espionage, Caspian struggles against his duty to protect the last of his people and his overwhelming urge to be with Hanna, a girl he feels drawn to.
Together they realize there are some things you cannot run away from, no matter how hard you may try.
Finding Refuge is the first installment in the Hollowshine Series.
Hanna has something to prove. Living under her father and peer’s overprotection has pushed her to the edge. She longs for her strength to be recognized. Focusing on schooling and passing unwanted responsibility back to its source, she cannot wait to break free. In Hanna’s desire to be heard, she finds it in the most unlikely source, a mysterious young man named Caspian.
Caspian has nothing left. His world and home are gone. All he wants is a clean slate to start over. Hollowshine’s leader has other plans in mind. Dragged into the politics of war and espionage, Caspian struggles against his duty to protect the last of his people and his overwhelming urge to be with Hanna, a girl he feels drawn to.
Together they realize there are some things you cannot run away from, no matter how hard you may try.
Finding Refuge is the first installment in the Hollowshine Series.
235 pages, Paperback
Published August 6, 2021
4 people want to read
About the author
Mackenzie Friel
9 books15 followersMackenzie Friel is a lover of all things sci-fi and fantasy related. With a strong imagination at a young age, she has honed her creative skills to bring worlds to life. Taking a variety of courses online, she can dive deeper into the world of fiction. Mackenzie resides in Virginia with her husband, two children, and cats.
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Facebook: Author Mackenzie Friel
Instagram: author_mackenzie_friel
Tiktok: @author_mackenzie_friel
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
March 11, 2022
Hollowshine has been all but destroyed, so Diviner Reina sends Caspian and Quinn to Castle, Washington to help get rid of the dark wizard faction there. Soon Caspian meets Hanna, a lonely girl just trying to prove herself. Will human Hanna help Caspian with his mission, or is she just a distraction?
That’s it, guys. I have decided what my least favorite trope is. I HATE the almost-kiss-but-something-interrupts trope. I hate it. It’s literally the worst. Even in movies, I’m always like, “Just kiss already!” 😂 I understand why it’s used, but it is so frustrating.
Otherwise, I loved this book! It was well written and I loved all of the characters (especially Slink! 💕). I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
That’s it, guys. I have decided what my least favorite trope is. I HATE the almost-kiss-but-something-interrupts trope. I hate it. It’s literally the worst. Even in movies, I’m always like, “Just kiss already!” 😂 I understand why it’s used, but it is so frustrating.
Otherwise, I loved this book! It was well written and I loved all of the characters (especially Slink! 💕). I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
September 20, 2022
I'm a HUGE fan of the modern fantasy genre and I am here for this book! The characters are instantly lovable, and it has all the elements of a modern fantasy while still telling a unique story. This first book in the series gave me just enough information to paint a mental picture of the world(s), while still leaving me excited to see what secrets will be revealed in books to come!
**SPOILER ALERT**
I DID NOT SEE THE END COMING! I'm honestly still shocked & excited to see if my theories that came out of that ending are right in the next book.
Also, I love Slink, he might be my favorite character so far.
**SPOILER ALERT**
I DID NOT SEE THE END COMING! I'm honestly still shocked & excited to see if my theories that came out of that ending are right in the next book.
Also, I love Slink, he might be my favorite character so far.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2022
This story is filled with magic and mystery. Hollowshine comes to Earth in search of refuge; Caspian get more than he was expecting when he meets Hanna Burton.
October 26, 2024
This book was so great! It is an intriguing take on fantasy with hidden magic and an omen for bigger darkness coming in future books. Loved the characters and how it ended.
August 10, 2021
Fun YA contemporary, urban, fantasy romance. This first book is more of a romance than a fantasy, but there's enough magic to imply a LOT more is happening in the background that's yet to be discovered in the sequels.
January 5, 2026
Mackenzie Friel is an engaging and imaginative story that blends contemporary settings with the wonder and mystery of fantasy. The author’s creativity is evident in the way the world unfolds—familiar enough to feel grounded, yet layered with intrigue and a sense of escape that draws the reader in.
What stands out most is the atmosphere of refuge itself: the idea that safety, hope, and transformation can exist even in unexpected places. Friel’s writing reflects a genuine love for the genre, with thoughtful pacing and vivid moments that allow the characters and their surroundings to breathe. The story balances emotional undertones with fantasy elements in a way that feels accessible to both longtime genre fans and newer readers.
Overall, Finding Refuge is a promising modern fantasy that showcases Mackenzie Friel’s imagination and passion for storytelling. It is a comforting yet compelling read for anyone who enjoys discovering new worlds while exploring themes of belonging, resilience, and escape.
What stands out most is the atmosphere of refuge itself: the idea that safety, hope, and transformation can exist even in unexpected places. Friel’s writing reflects a genuine love for the genre, with thoughtful pacing and vivid moments that allow the characters and their surroundings to breathe. The story balances emotional undertones with fantasy elements in a way that feels accessible to both longtime genre fans and newer readers.
Overall, Finding Refuge is a promising modern fantasy that showcases Mackenzie Friel’s imagination and passion for storytelling. It is a comforting yet compelling read for anyone who enjoys discovering new worlds while exploring themes of belonging, resilience, and escape.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews