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The Blood Crystal
Some secrets run deeper than blood…
Long ago, a battle was fought against the dark Etheria, creatures who wanted control of the world. Now, Etheria are kept hidden by Trucekeepers. They’re just myths… or are they?
Hannah is a frustrated sixteen-year-old—fed up with school, her diabetes and desperate to find somewhere she belongs.
Daegan is a Trucekeeper—a fearless warrior with a dark past, sworn to keep the existence of mythical creatures a secret.
Their lives couldn’t be more different… But everything changes when a magical blood crystal brings them together.
After Daegan saves Hannah from a vicious zburător, Hannah discovers the existence of Etheria, mythical creatures from all around the world, hidden by the Trucekeepers for centuries.
As Daegan trains her to become a Trucekeeper, Hannah rubs shoulders with Etheria, learns how to cast magic and finds somewhere she can finally call home… until she discovers that her mysterious past is the key to a war that could destroy the Trucekeepers and her new home forever.
Long ago, a battle was fought against the dark Etheria, creatures who wanted control of the world. Now, Etheria are kept hidden by Trucekeepers. They’re just myths… or are they?
Hannah is a frustrated sixteen-year-old—fed up with school, her diabetes and desperate to find somewhere she belongs.
Daegan is a Trucekeeper—a fearless warrior with a dark past, sworn to keep the existence of mythical creatures a secret.
Their lives couldn’t be more different… But everything changes when a magical blood crystal brings them together.
After Daegan saves Hannah from a vicious zburător, Hannah discovers the existence of Etheria, mythical creatures from all around the world, hidden by the Trucekeepers for centuries.
As Daegan trains her to become a Trucekeeper, Hannah rubs shoulders with Etheria, learns how to cast magic and finds somewhere she can finally call home… until she discovers that her mysterious past is the key to a war that could destroy the Trucekeepers and her new home forever.
- GenresFantasy
401 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2022
1 person is currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Matt Twinley
2 books3 followersMatt Twinley is a children’s and young adult author with a love of legends, fantasy and adventure. He grew up around Arundel in West Sussex and still remembers the awe of seeing its castle rise into view on the school bus home – an image that stayed with him and eventually inspired his first children’s book, Bevis the Giant: Hero of Arundel.
Matt is also the author of The Blood Crystal, the first book in The Trucekeeper Saga – an epic young adult fantasy series brimming with mythical creatures from around the world and a magic system inspired from his wife’s experience with type 1 diabetes.
After graduating from the University of St Andrews, Matt wandered through several jobs: wine merchant, audio transcriber, English teacher – all the while wanting to be a writer. His first novel began life in the margins of lesson plans while teaching. He wrote plays for schools, hundreds of blog posts and several projects he’s sworn will never see the light of day.
These days, Matt lives in Surrey with his wife, daughter and two dogs. You’ll usually find him scribbling away on new stories, researching bizarre and wonderful things, or getting lost in a book, film or video game. If he’s outside, he’s either at a bookshop or cinema, eating too much food or taking his dogs for a walk – otherwise, he’s probably lost.
Matt is also the author of The Blood Crystal, the first book in The Trucekeeper Saga – an epic young adult fantasy series brimming with mythical creatures from around the world and a magic system inspired from his wife’s experience with type 1 diabetes.
After graduating from the University of St Andrews, Matt wandered through several jobs: wine merchant, audio transcriber, English teacher – all the while wanting to be a writer. His first novel began life in the margins of lesson plans while teaching. He wrote plays for schools, hundreds of blog posts and several projects he’s sworn will never see the light of day.
These days, Matt lives in Surrey with his wife, daughter and two dogs. You’ll usually find him scribbling away on new stories, researching bizarre and wonderful things, or getting lost in a book, film or video game. If he’s outside, he’s either at a bookshop or cinema, eating too much food or taking his dogs for a walk – otherwise, he’s probably lost.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 31, 2022
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
This was a pleasant surprise. I really wasn’t sure what to expect aside from an adventure. The story gave me that in spades but so much more.
I love the set up of this world. There’s just enough given that you can follow it and get the feeling of how characters view things but there’s so much to explore and learn WITH the characters which is my favorite way to do things.
The characters are a fun mix but the MC did take a little time to grow on me. It’s hard to get a feel for them at first but once the plot really takes off, you’ll be all on board.
Definitely a fun adventure with fun characters. Well worth your time to check out!
This was a pleasant surprise. I really wasn’t sure what to expect aside from an adventure. The story gave me that in spades but so much more.
I love the set up of this world. There’s just enough given that you can follow it and get the feeling of how characters view things but there’s so much to explore and learn WITH the characters which is my favorite way to do things.
The characters are a fun mix but the MC did take a little time to grow on me. It’s hard to get a feel for them at first but once the plot really takes off, you’ll be all on board.
Definitely a fun adventure with fun characters. Well worth your time to check out!
July 16, 2023
I read this on Kindle Unlimited, and what a fun journey! If you love the magic of Harry Potter, you’ll love this YA fantasy filled with mythical creatures, adventure, good vs. evil, and a hidden world. The main character was realistic, dealing with real life health issues in addition to her key role. I enjoyed the touch of humor amid the serious plight of the characters. You can feel the growth as they traverse through some harrowing encounters. I definitely recommend this to all who love a great heroine!
September 11, 2023
“Blood Crystal" by Matt Twinley is a captivating fantasy novel that takes readers on a journey through an enchanting world of magical creatures and teenagers training to become the warriors they were meant to be.
The strength of "Blood Crystal" undoubtedly lies in its world-building. Twinley's ability to create a vivid and immersive fantasy realm is nothing short of impressive. From the fantastical landscapes to the intricately designed cultures and societies, readers will find themselves completely absorbed in this richly developed world. The author's attention to detail brings every corner of the setting to life, making it easy to lose oneself in the story.
One standout element of the book is the portrayal of a diabetic protagonist. This inclusion not only adds a layer of realism to the character but also offers a fresh take on the hero's journey. It's rare to see such diversity in fantasy literature, and Twinley handles this aspect with sensitivity and authenticity.
However, one minor drawback in "Blood Crystal" is the occasional use of telling instead of showing. While the narrative is engaging and the plot moves at a satisfying pace, there are moments when the author's penchant for exposition takes away from the immersive experience. A bit more subtlety and trust in the readers' ability to infer certain details would have enhanced the storytelling.
Despite this minor quibble, "Blood Crystal" is undeniably a good read. Matt Twinley's creativity shines through, and his ability to craft a vibrant fantasy world populated with unique characters is commendable. Readers looking for a fresh perspective in the fantasy genre will appreciate this book. "Blood Crystal" is a worthwhile addition to any fantasy bookshelf, and fans of the genre should not miss it.
The strength of "Blood Crystal" undoubtedly lies in its world-building. Twinley's ability to create a vivid and immersive fantasy realm is nothing short of impressive. From the fantastical landscapes to the intricately designed cultures and societies, readers will find themselves completely absorbed in this richly developed world. The author's attention to detail brings every corner of the setting to life, making it easy to lose oneself in the story.
One standout element of the book is the portrayal of a diabetic protagonist. This inclusion not only adds a layer of realism to the character but also offers a fresh take on the hero's journey. It's rare to see such diversity in fantasy literature, and Twinley handles this aspect with sensitivity and authenticity.
However, one minor drawback in "Blood Crystal" is the occasional use of telling instead of showing. While the narrative is engaging and the plot moves at a satisfying pace, there are moments when the author's penchant for exposition takes away from the immersive experience. A bit more subtlety and trust in the readers' ability to infer certain details would have enhanced the storytelling.
Despite this minor quibble, "Blood Crystal" is undeniably a good read. Matt Twinley's creativity shines through, and his ability to craft a vibrant fantasy world populated with unique characters is commendable. Readers looking for a fresh perspective in the fantasy genre will appreciate this book. "Blood Crystal" is a worthwhile addition to any fantasy bookshelf, and fans of the genre should not miss it.
May 20, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hannah gets expelled from school and on her way home she finds a crystal, did someone loose it, or was it deliberately placed there? With it, she is attacked by what she thought a mythical creature. She is saved by Deagon, who is now responsible for her. He takes her to headquarters to decide if she can stay or her memory is wiped. When unexpected events, Hannah lands herself in Etheria. A land where mythical creatures were banned after the war with humans. Because of the hardship at school where she was bullied, she doesn’t trust anyone and everyone is there to get her. Because of this, she takes irresponsible decisions and actions that can have grave consequences as she tries to adjust to her new life as Truce Keeper. It seems that she still hasn’t learn from what happened at school and now she might be booted out of Etheria. But there is a sinister plot going that nobody seems to notice. There are factions in Etheria that wants to take over the human world, but who can she trust?
A nice magical adventure story with a lot of action going on. Where emotions run wild and lives are at stake. But through all of it, there is a magical connection between everyone. You find yourself on the edge of the seat, as a wonderful world of mythical creatures opens up to you. A worthwhile read that takes you through the highs and lows of Hannah’s and Deagon’s life.
Hannah gets expelled from school and on her way home she finds a crystal, did someone loose it, or was it deliberately placed there? With it, she is attacked by what she thought a mythical creature. She is saved by Deagon, who is now responsible for her. He takes her to headquarters to decide if she can stay or her memory is wiped. When unexpected events, Hannah lands herself in Etheria. A land where mythical creatures were banned after the war with humans. Because of the hardship at school where she was bullied, she doesn’t trust anyone and everyone is there to get her. Because of this, she takes irresponsible decisions and actions that can have grave consequences as she tries to adjust to her new life as Truce Keeper. It seems that she still hasn’t learn from what happened at school and now she might be booted out of Etheria. But there is a sinister plot going that nobody seems to notice. There are factions in Etheria that wants to take over the human world, but who can she trust?
A nice magical adventure story with a lot of action going on. Where emotions run wild and lives are at stake. But through all of it, there is a magical connection between everyone. You find yourself on the edge of the seat, as a wonderful world of mythical creatures opens up to you. A worthwhile read that takes you through the highs and lows of Hannah’s and Deagon’s life.
July 17, 2023
Brooding swashbuckler meets spunky sunshine
Meet Daegan, a Trucekeeper, and Hannah, a lonely 16 year old girl struggling with school, health challenges, nail biting anxiety, and bullies that get her into trouble.
Brooding swashbuckler meets spunky sunshine.
I love Daegan! He is a mission impossible style superhero. The action scenes are done perfectly smoothly and fun right from the beginning. Hannah is a delight to read through the smart inner dialogues and her banter. She drives the story. All other characters including the villain are done super well.
This story comes with Werewolves, Etherian beings (mythical creatures-Tuatha De Danann and Fae of all sizes and shapes), and magical piercing crystals that require blood for it to work.
The world building is also very nicely done. The different fictional landscapes are something worthy of adventuring into.
This story has political situations at the brink of war between realms, and a lot of adventure-action pack scenes that will not let you put down this book!
There is espionage, a traitor among the Trucekeepers, and lots of dangerous situations. This story is about new found family, friendship, and trust. I do not want to spoil this story with more details. You must read it!
It is written well without visible grammatical or spelling errors. This book flows medium to fast pace, building the tension to a faster cannot put down pace with a perfect satisfying delivery.
Meet Daegan, a Trucekeeper, and Hannah, a lonely 16 year old girl struggling with school, health challenges, nail biting anxiety, and bullies that get her into trouble.
Brooding swashbuckler meets spunky sunshine.
I love Daegan! He is a mission impossible style superhero. The action scenes are done perfectly smoothly and fun right from the beginning. Hannah is a delight to read through the smart inner dialogues and her banter. She drives the story. All other characters including the villain are done super well.
This story comes with Werewolves, Etherian beings (mythical creatures-Tuatha De Danann and Fae of all sizes and shapes), and magical piercing crystals that require blood for it to work.
The world building is also very nicely done. The different fictional landscapes are something worthy of adventuring into.
This story has political situations at the brink of war between realms, and a lot of adventure-action pack scenes that will not let you put down this book!
There is espionage, a traitor among the Trucekeepers, and lots of dangerous situations. This story is about new found family, friendship, and trust. I do not want to spoil this story with more details. You must read it!
It is written well without visible grammatical or spelling errors. This book flows medium to fast pace, building the tension to a faster cannot put down pace with a perfect satisfying delivery.
August 11, 2022
I have received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review via LibraryThing.
That being said... YA literature is not often my choice, however, I'm a very curious reader and once in a while dip into other genres from what I usually read. And recently I do it more often than not.
This is a fantasy novel, apparently the first in the series. About a girl with diabetes, who after a rough start both n her personal life and school, ends up in the secret fantasy world, where she is training to be a Trucekeeper and through all the struggles that she faces, falls in love with the life there - finds her place. This story somewhat reminds me of the Harry Potter saga. It's well written, easy to read, and absorbing, the plot has lovely twists and turns and it's a great example of the genre.
My main criticism would be about the superficial side of the book... cover. I know, we don't judge a book by the cover, hence I read it and thought it was well written. But I'm a very visual person and shabby picture editing for the cover (and complimentary bookmarks), is very weak. It seems like a quick slap-dash kind of work done, which is a shame, as the story itself offers so much for any illustrator's, photographer's or editor's imagination... it would also be more appealing for the booklovers, who build their own personal libraries.
That being said... YA literature is not often my choice, however, I'm a very curious reader and once in a while dip into other genres from what I usually read. And recently I do it more often than not.
This is a fantasy novel, apparently the first in the series. About a girl with diabetes, who after a rough start both n her personal life and school, ends up in the secret fantasy world, where she is training to be a Trucekeeper and through all the struggles that she faces, falls in love with the life there - finds her place. This story somewhat reminds me of the Harry Potter saga. It's well written, easy to read, and absorbing, the plot has lovely twists and turns and it's a great example of the genre.
My main criticism would be about the superficial side of the book... cover. I know, we don't judge a book by the cover, hence I read it and thought it was well written. But I'm a very visual person and shabby picture editing for the cover (and complimentary bookmarks), is very weak. It seems like a quick slap-dash kind of work done, which is a shame, as the story itself offers so much for any illustrator's, photographer's or editor's imagination... it would also be more appealing for the booklovers, who build their own personal libraries.
June 10, 2022
The Blood Crystal is the first book in the Trucekeeper Saga.
Matt Twinley has created a powerful mixture of all the ingredients needed to make a successful start to a fantasy series. He is an interesting new storyteller who can blend action, adventure and mystery with a judicious sprinkle of humour.
In the opening chapters we meet Hannah Moreland, an unhappy teenager and Daegon, a mysterious warrior from a different world. We discover that this world is under threat and Hannah and and her ‘blood crystal’ is key to its defence. Hannah gains entry to the kingdom of Arcadia.
The author establishes a sense of place with detailed, intricate description. He brings it alive with places and characters from fantasy and mythology.
The plot takes us on an exhilarating, breathless journey with an ending which involves a circular plot twist with some intriguing hints of what is to come.
I particularly liked the development shown in the character of Hannah. She follows a gradual learning curve as she overcomes her weaknesses and learns what is truly important.
I would certainly recommend this book and I am looking forward to seeing how Matt Twinley develops the series.
Mrs O
Matt Twinley has created a powerful mixture of all the ingredients needed to make a successful start to a fantasy series. He is an interesting new storyteller who can blend action, adventure and mystery with a judicious sprinkle of humour.
In the opening chapters we meet Hannah Moreland, an unhappy teenager and Daegon, a mysterious warrior from a different world. We discover that this world is under threat and Hannah and and her ‘blood crystal’ is key to its defence. Hannah gains entry to the kingdom of Arcadia.
The author establishes a sense of place with detailed, intricate description. He brings it alive with places and characters from fantasy and mythology.
The plot takes us on an exhilarating, breathless journey with an ending which involves a circular plot twist with some intriguing hints of what is to come.
I particularly liked the development shown in the character of Hannah. She follows a gradual learning curve as she overcomes her weaknesses and learns what is truly important.
I would certainly recommend this book and I am looking forward to seeing how Matt Twinley develops the series.
Mrs O
August 24, 2023
I don't know why writing reviews is so hard, but it is.
I guess I'll start by saying I'm giving this 3.5 stars and rounding up to 4 because math is like that.
The plot of this book was amazing. I loved how Twinley based the magic system on type 1 diabetes. The blood crystals were a unique concept, and I enjoyed how the author made it so the magic was draining without practice.
The "monsters" were not common ones found in most books. I enjoyed learning about some of them, but others were just thrown in with no descriptions at all. I tried to look up a lot of them, but I'm sure I missed several. Hannah's and Niall's familiars were among my favorites.
I loved Arcadia and want to see everything Hannah saw from her window. All of the places in this book were top 10 vacation destinations!
The thing that brought this book down for me was the characters. I had a hard time relating to them. Hannah was supposed to be smart, but she kept making the same mistakes over and over and had no regard for authority. For whatever reason, she couldn't be bothered to apply herself.
All in all, it was an amazing adventure, and I'm curious to see what happens as this series continues.
I guess I'll start by saying I'm giving this 3.5 stars and rounding up to 4 because math is like that.
The plot of this book was amazing. I loved how Twinley based the magic system on type 1 diabetes. The blood crystals were a unique concept, and I enjoyed how the author made it so the magic was draining without practice.
The "monsters" were not common ones found in most books. I enjoyed learning about some of them, but others were just thrown in with no descriptions at all. I tried to look up a lot of them, but I'm sure I missed several. Hannah's and Niall's familiars were among my favorites.
I loved Arcadia and want to see everything Hannah saw from her window. All of the places in this book were top 10 vacation destinations!
The thing that brought this book down for me was the characters. I had a hard time relating to them. Hannah was supposed to be smart, but she kept making the same mistakes over and over and had no regard for authority. For whatever reason, she couldn't be bothered to apply herself.
All in all, it was an amazing adventure, and I'm curious to see what happens as this series continues.
July 6, 2022
I give this a 3.5/5 stars. There was so much potential for this to be a 5 star book but it fell a little flat for me. I had a hard time connecting with the main character. Her emotions were mostly negative and I wish there was more of a connection with her to the reader. I also wish the author put more time in showing her connections with her friends. Without it, it made scenes feel forced or random. The flow of the book was also off. It had amazing ideas and amazing creatures but the story for me did not flow as well as it could have (might just be me being picky). I very much enjoyed the idea of the story itself and the author was super creative with the characters and creatures in it. I loved all of the different magic and abilities creatures had. I do wish some creatures had been explained. Every so often the author would put out a name of a creature but not explain what they were so it made it hard to visualize. Overall it’s an interesting read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2022
The Blood Crystal is Book 1 of The Trucekeeper Saga by Matt Twinley. This fantasy moves from "Earth" to a different Dimension, "Arcadia". Hannah is attacked and when she picks up a crystal, Dagan appears next to her and saves her life and Hannah's life is changed forever. This was a very interesting story. I felt that Matt Twinley wrote interesting characters in a fast paced story. Magic and different creatures make Arcadia an incredible place. There is a traitor and besides being evil, he really trying to bring Arcadia into war. I felt the story was exciting with so much action. I was not ready for The Blood Crystal to end, but, hopefully book 2 will be written soon. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
May 18, 2022
Ever wonder what a world with the mythological would be like? Well, Matt Twinley created that world.
In The Blood Crystal, first book of The Trucekeeper Saga, Twinley introduces creatures, or Etheria, that we've all heard of, and ones we haven't. Everything from mermaids and vampires to hippogriffs and chupacabras.
Arcadia is a hidden world where the Etheria live. After war broke out between the Etheria and humans, a truce was made, creating safe havens for the Etheria. Trucekeepers are humans who help to keep the Truce in place as well as protect the Etheria.
Matt Twinley does a wonderful job creating this magical existence. If you're looking for a good fantasy twist I definitely recommend The Blood Crystal.
In The Blood Crystal, first book of The Trucekeeper Saga, Twinley introduces creatures, or Etheria, that we've all heard of, and ones we haven't. Everything from mermaids and vampires to hippogriffs and chupacabras.
Arcadia is a hidden world where the Etheria live. After war broke out between the Etheria and humans, a truce was made, creating safe havens for the Etheria. Trucekeepers are humans who help to keep the Truce in place as well as protect the Etheria.
Matt Twinley does a wonderful job creating this magical existence. If you're looking for a good fantasy twist I definitely recommend The Blood Crystal.
August 25, 2022
I received this book as a free copy and I am voluntarily giving this review.
I really enjoyed this book. It definitely shows huge potential for a new author. I could imagine Matt Twinley growing up on a diet of Narnia and Pokemon in particular with the obvious Harry Potter and Dark Materials (and things like Twilight) at a later date. He keeps you wanting to read more and the integration of Hannah's (the main character's) diabetes struggles gives an interesting edge. (One comment re people with type 2 diabetes - we aren't all overweight and it is also genetic in my case!). There is a definite ending to the book which I like but with the obvious leads to the next book in the Trilogy which I look forward to reading.
I really enjoyed this book. It definitely shows huge potential for a new author. I could imagine Matt Twinley growing up on a diet of Narnia and Pokemon in particular with the obvious Harry Potter and Dark Materials (and things like Twilight) at a later date. He keeps you wanting to read more and the integration of Hannah's (the main character's) diabetes struggles gives an interesting edge. (One comment re people with type 2 diabetes - we aren't all overweight and it is also genetic in my case!). There is a definite ending to the book which I like but with the obvious leads to the next book in the Trilogy which I look forward to reading.
July 14, 2023
This was a really good coming of age fantasy tale with an intriguing magic system based on using needles to produce blood to charge a crystal and control their powers. This idea came from real life as the author’s wife suffers from diabetes.
It took a while to get to like Hannah, as she always thinks she knows best, yet when it goes wrong, she runs away. This becomes one of the main character growth arcs, learning to listen and take responsibility for her actions.
Set in a complex world of magical creatures, each with different powers, Hannah runs from one mistake and is rescued by a Trucekeeper. Learning she can control a blood crystal, and a magical world exists sets her on her journey of self discovery.
It took a while to get to like Hannah, as she always thinks she knows best, yet when it goes wrong, she runs away. This becomes one of the main character growth arcs, learning to listen and take responsibility for her actions.
Set in a complex world of magical creatures, each with different powers, Hannah runs from one mistake and is rescued by a Trucekeeper. Learning she can control a blood crystal, and a magical world exists sets her on her journey of self discovery.
April 13, 2022
This is the first book of a young adult fantasy series. Hannah is an unhappy teenager, with little past and probably not much of a future. She gets atacjed by a mysterious creature and get transported to Etheria, a fantastical land of Trucekeepers and magical creatures, and finds that she has the potential to become a trucekeeper herself. The plot is intriguing at times, but also complex as there is a lot of new terminology thrown in at the reader. I think this story would benefit from some definitions. 4/5 stars.
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.
July 17, 2023
I read this through Kindle Unlimited and was so glad I did. I loved the Harry Pitter series and this had some feels similar but yet so unique. Fantasy is not my normal genre, so wasn’t sure what to expect. It was a pleasant surprise.
The character Hannah made me so happy because who hasn’t wanted to belong as a teenager and adult? Once she has it, she fights tooth and nail to hold onto it, I like her spirit.
This is book one in a series, I hope the author continues to explore real world issues and conditions so kids can see themselves in these characters.
The author is off to a great start with this series.
The character Hannah made me so happy because who hasn’t wanted to belong as a teenager and adult? Once she has it, she fights tooth and nail to hold onto it, I like her spirit.
This is book one in a series, I hope the author continues to explore real world issues and conditions so kids can see themselves in these characters.
The author is off to a great start with this series.
August 11, 2023
First off, I really like the cover because it put me in mind of The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. The girl on the cover made me think of Sabrina. Set in a world where mythical creatures are hidden by Trucekeepers, "The Blood Crystal" follows the journey of Hannah, a frustrated teenager with diabetes, as she discovers a magical world alongside Daegan, a Trucekeeper. The dynamic between these characters is captivating - from Hannah's realistic struggles to Daegan's heroic presence. With action-packed scenes, political intrigue, and a touch of humor, this tale of adventure, friendship, and trust is a must-read for fantasy lovers.
April 27, 2022
The Blood Crystal (Book One) by Mattt Twinley is a YA fantasy about lonely 16 year old diabetic Hannah who finds herself transported into a magical world where she may be the key to saving it.
Told with heart and vivid imagination Hannah is the savior of her own story. Perfect for Harry Potter fans.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Told with heart and vivid imagination Hannah is the savior of her own story. Perfect for Harry Potter fans.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 29, 2022
I liked this book very much as I read it, particularly the aspect of the author focusing on the protagonist's views and instead of creating a tense romance within the plot. The characters and creatures were very creative and I felt as if I could see them in front of me as I read them. The realistic approach of Hannah's life was refreshing as most protagonists do not have much wrong with them - she knows her flaws but does not let that stop her. I enjoyed reading it :)
June 16, 2023
I am a huge fantasy fan and YA is among one of my favourite genres, so I knew I would like this book. I absolutely loved the mix of magic and mythology; it was unexpected but great. Hannah is my favourite with her strength and determination.
Although I felt a little lost with the number of magical creatures, I still enjoyed all of them. I am looking forward to their development as the series continues.
I am looking forward to book 2
Although I felt a little lost with the number of magical creatures, I still enjoyed all of them. I am looking forward to their development as the series continues.
I am looking forward to book 2
July 10, 2023
Hannah is an exceptional MC and her struggle is real. This YA fantasy tale sucked me right in as the characters are believeable and complicated.
I was initially intrigued by the premise of Hannah having Type 1, but then also having to constantly explain it, being bullied by it until more than just the disease was wearing her down. This kind of story is perfect for any reader of YA fantasy who also wants a precise and well-written dose of reality. I love the creatures too!
I was initially intrigued by the premise of Hannah having Type 1, but then also having to constantly explain it, being bullied by it until more than just the disease was wearing her down. This kind of story is perfect for any reader of YA fantasy who also wants a precise and well-written dose of reality. I love the creatures too!
November 21, 2023
worldbuilding, drama, action, and adventure!
This story is one full of rich worldbuilding, with supernatural cultures and creatures that tie together multiple sorts of myths. The main character grows during the story as she attempts to find her place in the world, and there’s plenty of drama, action, and adventure as she does so. It’s also pretty much the first story I’ve read where there is a mention of diabetes. Definitely worth a read.
This story is one full of rich worldbuilding, with supernatural cultures and creatures that tie together multiple sorts of myths. The main character grows during the story as she attempts to find her place in the world, and there’s plenty of drama, action, and adventure as she does so. It’s also pretty much the first story I’ve read where there is a mention of diabetes. Definitely worth a read.
November 28, 2023
The Blood Crystal is a great YA fantasy filled with mythical creatures and world.
I loved how the main character grew from a lost runaway to finding her purpose as she matured and learned of this world she finds.
At first, I was nervous the amount of creatures named and described would be too much, but the author does amazing at pulling the reader into this world and focusing on important details while the setting the stage of the story.
A great read and I’m excited for it to continue.
I loved how the main character grew from a lost runaway to finding her purpose as she matured and learned of this world she finds.
At first, I was nervous the amount of creatures named and described would be too much, but the author does amazing at pulling the reader into this world and focusing on important details while the setting the stage of the story.
A great read and I’m excited for it to continue.
March 31, 2022
This is an engrossing and well written book. The characters are well defined. The storyline starts well and get better as the plot builds, reaching an excellent conclusion. The book is easy to read and keeps you wanting more. I definitely recommend this book.
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.
August 16, 2022
The usual YA fantasy building from the usual cliches (a young protagonist finds her way to a fantasy world where she learns magic and fights against evil.... mmmmm, I wonder where I`ve read it before) but very enjoyable and entertaining read in itself. Sorry to say but the cover is awful.
July 23, 2023
Brilliant! I bought this from Matt last year at Brighton and Hove Book Fayre. This was an epic read, and I can't wait for the next book!
February 17, 2024
This was an enjoyable YA read.
The main character was relatable and I loved all the mythical creatures woven into this world. Highly recommend if you love a heroine who grows throughout the story.
The main character was relatable and I loved all the mythical creatures woven into this world. Highly recommend if you love a heroine who grows throughout the story.
November 15, 2023
This is such a fun young adult read!! The world building is awesome. Occasionally you get more tell then show, but the story is good enough it keeps you hooked. It has touches of humor and real life issues a lot of us face. This made the character more real and relatable.
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