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Spellbinders #1
Spellbinders: The Not-So-Chosen One
Ben may only be pretending to be the 'Chosen One'--but I've definitely chosen this one as my favorite new fantasy series."
--Max Brallier, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Last Kids on Earth series
How far would you go to play the hero? One lonely seventh grader gets way more than he bargained for when he is swept into the fantasy quest of his gaming dreams in this magical illustrated series full of laughs, adventure, and twists.
Ben doesn't feel chosen by anybody--not by his friends, who haven't kept in touch since he moved after his parents' divorce, or by his mom, who's so busy he barely sees her. He spends all his time living in fantasy worlds and writing extensively planned adventure campaigns in his role-playing-game notebook. So when Niara, a character who could be right out of one of his favorite games, shows up and tells him he's destined to save her realm (like, foretold-by-a-prophecy destined), Ben has two possible moves: tell her the truth or play along. He's tired of feeling left behind, so his choice is clear--game on.
One interdimensional portal later, Ben is in full hero mode. At first, adventuring in Lux seems like a dream come true, but pretending to be the Chosen One--and lying to his new friends--isn't quite what he imagined it to be. And the more he learns about Lux and his quest, the more he realizes this is way beyond a game--and the rules seem to be changing as he goes. In fact, it might be time for him to write some new ones.
--Max Brallier, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Last Kids on Earth series
How far would you go to play the hero? One lonely seventh grader gets way more than he bargained for when he is swept into the fantasy quest of his gaming dreams in this magical illustrated series full of laughs, adventure, and twists.
Ben doesn't feel chosen by anybody--not by his friends, who haven't kept in touch since he moved after his parents' divorce, or by his mom, who's so busy he barely sees her. He spends all his time living in fantasy worlds and writing extensively planned adventure campaigns in his role-playing-game notebook. So when Niara, a character who could be right out of one of his favorite games, shows up and tells him he's destined to save her realm (like, foretold-by-a-prophecy destined), Ben has two possible moves: tell her the truth or play along. He's tired of feeling left behind, so his choice is clear--game on.
One interdimensional portal later, Ben is in full hero mode. At first, adventuring in Lux seems like a dream come true, but pretending to be the Chosen One--and lying to his new friends--isn't quite what he imagined it to be. And the more he learns about Lux and his quest, the more he realizes this is way beyond a game--and the rules seem to be changing as he goes. In fact, it might be time for him to write some new ones.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2023
20 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Auseon
13 books26 followersAndrew Auseon is a writer of novels for young people, and a designer of video games. He holds a B.A. from Ohio University and a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing for Children and Young Adults from the prestigious Vermont College.
He lives in Baltimore, Maryland with his wife, Sarah Zogby, and their two daughters.
He lives in Baltimore, Maryland with his wife, Sarah Zogby, and their two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 3, 2023
If you like D&D or other role-playing games with tons of pop culture references, this one's for you, or middle school you. In my opinion, silly books are for any age. Through downright outrageous situations and characters, important life lessons are learned.
April 15, 2024
Whimsical, comedic, and rife with D&D nods, yet what kept me turning this book’s pages well past my bedtime was the eloquence to the narrative’s ability to accurately convey the pangs of coming to terms with steadfast friendships diminishing through adolescence. I felt the MC’s pain as he felt that loss that comes with changes we cannot prevent in our youth. I already pre-ordered the sequel!
September 20, 2024
So far so good. I'm about half way through the book and I've enjoyed all of it. The adventure, the fighting, the twist. It's so cute and simple.
I really enjoyed the entire book. I didn't expect it to go the way it did. But I enjoyed the art, the silly names and that Ben is a lil nerd.
I really enjoyed the entire book. I didn't expect it to go the way it did. But I enjoyed the art, the silly names and that Ben is a lil nerd.
June 30, 2023
Author Interview:
What made you want to write a story that combines gaming and fantasy and the real-life struggles of being an out of place kid in the world?
I love this question because it’s easy. 😀 Historically, gaming and fantasy fandom communities have been largely populated by people searching for others that share their specific interests; coincidentally, these were often the same people who felt alienated from mainstream culture. Combining fantasy role-playing with a story of outsiders and belonging feels very organic, which I suppose is why that trope is used so frequently in fiction. Everybody’s looking for the place where they fit in. When it comes to my own kids, we refer to these sought-after groups as “your people.”
Ben, the main character of Spellbinders: The Not-So-Chosen One, loses “his people” very early in the story. A move to another town upends his life, and he loses his best friends, his neighborhood community, and his family unit. In response, Ben retreats into the imaginary world of role-playing games that he often builds around himself as a refuge from the outside world. Except this time the world is real, full of real people and real stakes. Even in a realm of high fantasy, people experience real-life struggles that mirror his own. Every fantasy is a reality for somebody.
Gaming is something that “outsiders” don’t understand. How does this book make the insider language feel accessible?
One of the very first conversations I had with my editor involved the gaming aspects of the book. Being an illustrated series, Spellbinders includes incredible drawings by artist Lisa K. Weber, as well as a series of design elements that are directly inspired by instruction manuals for role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. We decided early on that the book couldn’t be “played” and that any game references needed to be vague and silly, not only to fit the tone and voice of the writing, but because gaming is just a metaphor for how Ben approaches his life. It gives him a sense of agency in a time when he feels there is little he can control. Everything in the book is built to this end, to create the recognizable illusion of a game without actually having any substance to it. The hope is that I can reach gamers and non-gamers alike with a balancing act that feels both plausible and ridiculous at the same time. That’s kind of how I approach everything. How can I make it both plausible and ridiculous? Lol.
And to briefly comment on accessibility, I think gaming, like any form of popular entertainment, isn’t nearly as monolithic as it appears. The culture suffers from a perception and marketing problem. Games have become a bigger, more diverse, and more complex influence on mainstream culture than ever before, and that’s tough to get your head around. Think about it. According to a 2018 survey by Common Sense Media, 6 in 10 kids have played Fortnite. Critical Role has become a cross-media IP empire. And at this very moment, The Super Mario Bros. Movie is the #1 movie of 2023, and it’s not even close.
What would you do if someone told you that you were a chosen one, but totally didn’t feel like it?
That is, quite literally, the inspiration for Spellbinders. I was that kid who hoped for a magical door to open in mid-air during algebra class, or for a messenger from beyond to walk up to me in a crowded room and say, “Finally! I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Let’s get out of here.” Call it escapism. Call it an overactive imagination. Call it a short attention span. I don’t really know why this happens. But to answer your question, I’ll never feel like a Chosen One, no matter how much I’d love to experience that level of confidence and certainty about anything in my life. Most of the time I feel like the Who-Let-This-Guy-In? One. They have a great name for that these days: Impostor Syndrome. But like a lot of kids, I felt overlooked and invisible when I was young, so the idea of any interesting, important person like Niara noticing me and wanting to recruit me for something epic and consequential, that’s the dream. It’s still the dream.
And yes, I would totally go with them if they asked me. 🙂
Middle school is hard! What inspires you to write stories for this age group?
Is it hard! That’s why stories are so crucial to the creative and emotional survival of our kids. Some find them in games or theater, others in fan fiction and physical books. I’m by no means a reading educator, but I recognize that there’s something special about the middle-grade age when it comes to childhood development. Books in this genre seem to retain the innocence and charm of chapter books while introducing greater sophistication and thematic daring, creating an alchemy that makes for timeless stories. Even now, in my [AGE REDACTED], I return to middle grade books when I want to experience a certain feeling. It’s a conflicting, contradictory sensation of realism (i.e. negativity) with a prevailing sense of hope. I don’t know where that strange brew comes from? Maybe another realm, one with unicorns. Also, too many books surrender to seriousness as the intended readership ages. Silly is good! It is pure! Off-the-wall weirdness often gets sacrificed at the altar of maturity and relevance. I don’t think that needs to be true. Did I answer your question? 😉
What is the most unexpected thing you’ve learned about writing and telling stories with the publication of Spellbinders?
That I still have so much to learn—about my writing, my process, my strengths and weaknesses, and how to take what I see working for others and applying it to my own work. For me, writing needs to be an endless series of construction and demolition, of trying techniques only to toss them aside later in favor of something smarter, fresher, and more exciting or effective. Sure, I may be a better writer than I was when I started, but I’m so far from where I’d like to be. When I read a friend’s novel or a WIP, I’m astounded anew by the ingenuity and heart in people’s stories. It’s unexpected only in that every day brings something different to savor and learn from.
On a personal level, I’ve been staggered by the warmth and kindness of the children’s literature community, which includes the whole range of authors, illustrators, educators, librarians, booksellers, parents, and plenty of other people I’m no doubt forgetting. It’s an extraordinary and welcoming group. Spellbinders and I have been embraced in a way I never expected, so thank you to everyone who’s supported me.
What made you want to write a story that combines gaming and fantasy and the real-life struggles of being an out of place kid in the world?
I love this question because it’s easy. 😀 Historically, gaming and fantasy fandom communities have been largely populated by people searching for others that share their specific interests; coincidentally, these were often the same people who felt alienated from mainstream culture. Combining fantasy role-playing with a story of outsiders and belonging feels very organic, which I suppose is why that trope is used so frequently in fiction. Everybody’s looking for the place where they fit in. When it comes to my own kids, we refer to these sought-after groups as “your people.”
Ben, the main character of Spellbinders: The Not-So-Chosen One, loses “his people” very early in the story. A move to another town upends his life, and he loses his best friends, his neighborhood community, and his family unit. In response, Ben retreats into the imaginary world of role-playing games that he often builds around himself as a refuge from the outside world. Except this time the world is real, full of real people and real stakes. Even in a realm of high fantasy, people experience real-life struggles that mirror his own. Every fantasy is a reality for somebody.
Gaming is something that “outsiders” don’t understand. How does this book make the insider language feel accessible?
One of the very first conversations I had with my editor involved the gaming aspects of the book. Being an illustrated series, Spellbinders includes incredible drawings by artist Lisa K. Weber, as well as a series of design elements that are directly inspired by instruction manuals for role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. We decided early on that the book couldn’t be “played” and that any game references needed to be vague and silly, not only to fit the tone and voice of the writing, but because gaming is just a metaphor for how Ben approaches his life. It gives him a sense of agency in a time when he feels there is little he can control. Everything in the book is built to this end, to create the recognizable illusion of a game without actually having any substance to it. The hope is that I can reach gamers and non-gamers alike with a balancing act that feels both plausible and ridiculous at the same time. That’s kind of how I approach everything. How can I make it both plausible and ridiculous? Lol.
And to briefly comment on accessibility, I think gaming, like any form of popular entertainment, isn’t nearly as monolithic as it appears. The culture suffers from a perception and marketing problem. Games have become a bigger, more diverse, and more complex influence on mainstream culture than ever before, and that’s tough to get your head around. Think about it. According to a 2018 survey by Common Sense Media, 6 in 10 kids have played Fortnite. Critical Role has become a cross-media IP empire. And at this very moment, The Super Mario Bros. Movie is the #1 movie of 2023, and it’s not even close.
What would you do if someone told you that you were a chosen one, but totally didn’t feel like it?
That is, quite literally, the inspiration for Spellbinders. I was that kid who hoped for a magical door to open in mid-air during algebra class, or for a messenger from beyond to walk up to me in a crowded room and say, “Finally! I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Let’s get out of here.” Call it escapism. Call it an overactive imagination. Call it a short attention span. I don’t really know why this happens. But to answer your question, I’ll never feel like a Chosen One, no matter how much I’d love to experience that level of confidence and certainty about anything in my life. Most of the time I feel like the Who-Let-This-Guy-In? One. They have a great name for that these days: Impostor Syndrome. But like a lot of kids, I felt overlooked and invisible when I was young, so the idea of any interesting, important person like Niara noticing me and wanting to recruit me for something epic and consequential, that’s the dream. It’s still the dream.
And yes, I would totally go with them if they asked me. 🙂
Middle school is hard! What inspires you to write stories for this age group?
Is it hard! That’s why stories are so crucial to the creative and emotional survival of our kids. Some find them in games or theater, others in fan fiction and physical books. I’m by no means a reading educator, but I recognize that there’s something special about the middle-grade age when it comes to childhood development. Books in this genre seem to retain the innocence and charm of chapter books while introducing greater sophistication and thematic daring, creating an alchemy that makes for timeless stories. Even now, in my [AGE REDACTED], I return to middle grade books when I want to experience a certain feeling. It’s a conflicting, contradictory sensation of realism (i.e. negativity) with a prevailing sense of hope. I don’t know where that strange brew comes from? Maybe another realm, one with unicorns. Also, too many books surrender to seriousness as the intended readership ages. Silly is good! It is pure! Off-the-wall weirdness often gets sacrificed at the altar of maturity and relevance. I don’t think that needs to be true. Did I answer your question? 😉
What is the most unexpected thing you’ve learned about writing and telling stories with the publication of Spellbinders?
That I still have so much to learn—about my writing, my process, my strengths and weaknesses, and how to take what I see working for others and applying it to my own work. For me, writing needs to be an endless series of construction and demolition, of trying techniques only to toss them aside later in favor of something smarter, fresher, and more exciting or effective. Sure, I may be a better writer than I was when I started, but I’m so far from where I’d like to be. When I read a friend’s novel or a WIP, I’m astounded anew by the ingenuity and heart in people’s stories. It’s unexpected only in that every day brings something different to savor and learn from.
On a personal level, I’ve been staggered by the warmth and kindness of the children’s literature community, which includes the whole range of authors, illustrators, educators, librarians, booksellers, parents, and plenty of other people I’m no doubt forgetting. It’s an extraordinary and welcoming group. Spellbinders and I have been embraced in a way I never expected, so thank you to everyone who’s supported me.
June 17, 2023
Andrew Auseon’s middle-grade fantasy release, Spellbinders: The Not-So-Chosen One, is a ridiculously entertaining read complete with imaginative creatures, unique characters, and an engaging storyline. Pete Cross did a great job bringing the story to life with his performance in the audiobook narration.
Ben is lonelier than ever after being moved away from his friends following his parents divorce. His friends have abandoned him, and his Mom is distant and barely has any time for him. When he mourns his current circumstances on the bench of a convention, a young girl comes up to him claiming that Ben is the chosen one and requesting his help to save his home. Eager for something to do (and thinking it some elaborate interactive convention experience), Ben agrees. However, once they arrive and Ben starts seeing things like flying Narwhals and knights riding giant guinea pigs, he realizes he’s no longer on Earth, that this is very much a real quest and he might not be the chosen one from the prophecy.
The worldbuilding in this book is zany and innovative, sometimes bordering on ridiculous (see the above mention of knights riding giant guinea pigs), and I am happy to report that I was fully entertained from start to finish. Of course there are the classic elements of a good fantasy book and a tale featuring an archetypal ‘hero’s quest’ - for instance, the call to adventure, many moments of self doubt, the ever present helper, and the major moment of transformation. I really enjoyed getting to see Ben’s journey from start to finish. The story is structured such that it’s easy to understand for the target audience of middle-grade readers, but I think adult readers would be able to find something enjoyable in the read as I did.
The characters were another highlight of the book. Ben and Niara’s interactions were fun to witness; it was also fun to see how pieces of Earth’s culture influenced that of Lux. I admittedly snorted out loud when Niara said that ‘spaghetti squash’ was considered a curse word. For those who try to read books with LGBTQ+ representation, there is a cool shape changing character that makes an appearance. It’s a casual reference that the author doesn’t make a big deal out of, but I did appreciate seeing it.
Overall, this was a highly entertaining and humorous read. If you’re a fan of middle-grade fantasy novels or games like Dungeons and Dragons, I really think this book will resonate. I can personally attest to feeling seen, and relating to most of Ben’s struggles. As this is the first book in a series, I’m excited to read about more adventures set in this world in the future!
Thank you to the author, the publisher, the team at TBR and Beyond Tours, and NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary review copy of Spellbinders: The Not-So-Chosen One. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review the book immensely. Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed the book. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
Ben is lonelier than ever after being moved away from his friends following his parents divorce. His friends have abandoned him, and his Mom is distant and barely has any time for him. When he mourns his current circumstances on the bench of a convention, a young girl comes up to him claiming that Ben is the chosen one and requesting his help to save his home. Eager for something to do (and thinking it some elaborate interactive convention experience), Ben agrees. However, once they arrive and Ben starts seeing things like flying Narwhals and knights riding giant guinea pigs, he realizes he’s no longer on Earth, that this is very much a real quest and he might not be the chosen one from the prophecy.
The worldbuilding in this book is zany and innovative, sometimes bordering on ridiculous (see the above mention of knights riding giant guinea pigs), and I am happy to report that I was fully entertained from start to finish. Of course there are the classic elements of a good fantasy book and a tale featuring an archetypal ‘hero’s quest’ - for instance, the call to adventure, many moments of self doubt, the ever present helper, and the major moment of transformation. I really enjoyed getting to see Ben’s journey from start to finish. The story is structured such that it’s easy to understand for the target audience of middle-grade readers, but I think adult readers would be able to find something enjoyable in the read as I did.
The characters were another highlight of the book. Ben and Niara’s interactions were fun to witness; it was also fun to see how pieces of Earth’s culture influenced that of Lux. I admittedly snorted out loud when Niara said that ‘spaghetti squash’ was considered a curse word. For those who try to read books with LGBTQ+ representation, there is a cool shape changing character that makes an appearance. It’s a casual reference that the author doesn’t make a big deal out of, but I did appreciate seeing it.
Overall, this was a highly entertaining and humorous read. If you’re a fan of middle-grade fantasy novels or games like Dungeons and Dragons, I really think this book will resonate. I can personally attest to feeling seen, and relating to most of Ben’s struggles. As this is the first book in a series, I’m excited to read about more adventures set in this world in the future!
Thank you to the author, the publisher, the team at TBR and Beyond Tours, and NetGalley for providing me with a complimentary review copy of Spellbinders: The Not-So-Chosen One. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review the book immensely. Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed the book. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
June 3, 2024
I LOVED this book! The opening with Ben fighting the Ogre Lord was hilarious and then to find him talking to the principal. I laughed at the first opening of this book!
Our story is about Ben who is a middle school student, and he is brand new to a school (about 6 months new to the school) and the teachers and principal in Ben's new school are worried he is not fitting into the school well. Ben has a obsession with role playing games, and in my own personal house we have played many a RPG! I resonated with Ben very much as a reader since we have that in common and most people think it's boring or not fun. It is!
I loved the illustrations of Ben and his 5 adventuring friends in the game. I also hated the fact his friends didn't show up! And then he finds out that he is the chosen one, OMG! I loved that plot twist in the story, and it was a nice insert to the story as it began. I loved the new group of friends Ben acquires and it was a great story overall!
I cannot WAIT to see where the story goes in the future, it is highly enjoyable as a read and definitely leaves open more to another book:)
Our story is about Ben who is a middle school student, and he is brand new to a school (about 6 months new to the school) and the teachers and principal in Ben's new school are worried he is not fitting into the school well. Ben has a obsession with role playing games, and in my own personal house we have played many a RPG! I resonated with Ben very much as a reader since we have that in common and most people think it's boring or not fun. It is!
I loved the illustrations of Ben and his 5 adventuring friends in the game. I also hated the fact his friends didn't show up! And then he finds out that he is the chosen one, OMG! I loved that plot twist in the story, and it was a nice insert to the story as it began. I loved the new group of friends Ben acquires and it was a great story overall!
I cannot WAIT to see where the story goes in the future, it is highly enjoyable as a read and definitely leaves open more to another book:)
June 23, 2024
The Not So Chosen One, the first book in the Spellbinders series, is a dream made real for any kid who grew up with a set of dice and a page of character sheets in front of them. Andrew Auseon sends his lonely protagonist, Ben, on the adventure of a lifetime, 100 times more unexpected and complex than any TTRPG he ever dreamt up for his friends (or former friends.) From flying Narwhals to Playstation-filled panic rooms in the castle, there is something original and familiar about the world Auseon creates. The book is a love letter to the power of creativity and the idea that we find the people we are meant to see in the strangest and most beautiful places. This book was like a breath of fresh air that reminded me how much I love books for kids. I instantly related to Ben and his friend's problems, and the plot was fun and kept me turning the pages. There's a good amount of humor, too, which is not easy to pull off. I loved how the book introduces gaming and lays out the rules of how things happen with excellent illustrations, just like you were looking up information in a gaming book. It is the perfect blend of gaming and fantasy for readers to get lost in. Highly recommend!
January 13, 2023
It hasn't been since reading Maggie & Abby's Neverending Pillowfort by Will Taylor have I been able to find a book that is capable of perfectly capturing the voice and imagination of preteens. This book is redonkulous in it's scope, epic in scale, but always perfectly settled within the imagination of a kid - from the cool and epic sounding flying Narwhals, to the hilariously punny "king's swine" which are actually knights riding giant guinea pigs, everything about this story was unexpected. It's quite a long story, whose adventure is never as linear as you would expect a hero's quest - full of moments of self-doubt, double-crossing, plots turning in on itself in delightful ways. Definitely enjoyed reading this one, though I would have adored to see the queer content higher. There are so many puns, plays on words that adults reading it will find plenty to keep them entertained (some things, even the 'everything coming up' joke, might not land for the youngest audiences, though it's not as if that would be something to take them out of the story) Highly recommended!
July 11, 2023
Although a bit on the long side, I really enjoyed this adventure and felt it was broken up well to keep the pace and action as well as tackle some real life problems. Ben is dealing with divorce, moving and having his friends want to move onto something new in their gaming group. He doesn’t want anything else to change and is resistant, so it’s a surprise when none of them show up to meet him at their usual spot even though he’s ignored all their texts asking to do something different for their annual con. They’re the five of legend, nothing can change that right? When a girl near him spies the journal he is writing in, she takes him on a quest and he is to be the chosen one to save her world. At first he thinks this is part of the con but soon realizes she actually is from another world, but he can’t possibly be the chosen one, but how does he tell her that?
I think there’s an audience for this book for sure but it won’t appeal to a wider fantasy reader.
I think there’s an audience for this book for sure but it won’t appeal to a wider fantasy reader.
September 11, 2023
This book was an adventurous, humorous, and entertaining read. However, I did feel my years as I was reading this.
Middle grade has slowly been losing its magic for me over the years and I hate it.
This was a story about a main character who I could see being one of my students. The characters are written to be exactly like their ages very well. It had a classic message about communication and not running away from your problems that middle schoolers need to hear and see represented. I thought the magic in this was very creative, and it was one of the strongest parts of the story. It was entertaining to read about flying narwhals and about the goofy inspirational quotes that drove Lux.
I might continue on with the next book. Andrew was very nice at the author event, and a very creative human indeed. I see this 100% being in my future classroom library for sure.
Middle grade has slowly been losing its magic for me over the years and I hate it.
This was a story about a main character who I could see being one of my students. The characters are written to be exactly like their ages very well. It had a classic message about communication and not running away from your problems that middle schoolers need to hear and see represented. I thought the magic in this was very creative, and it was one of the strongest parts of the story. It was entertaining to read about flying narwhals and about the goofy inspirational quotes that drove Lux.
I might continue on with the next book. Andrew was very nice at the author event, and a very creative human indeed. I see this 100% being in my future classroom library for sure.
July 27, 2023
This is a funny, silly fantasy book that also ties in video games and gaming. Ben, a 7th grader, is feeling lonely and left out after having to move away from his friends and have his mom work two jobs to support them. He ends up in a fantasy world, Lux, where he is believed to be the chosen one who will save them all. Along the way, Ben makes some new friends and has to decide if he should tell the truth or not about not being the chosen one. The humor was great. Lots of silliness abounds like swear words “cargo pants” and “butternut squash”. Some great lessons are learned. Some violence, including violence from a flying narwhal that shoots lightning out of it’s horn. Fans of humor and fantasy will enjoy this book. 5th grade and up.
June 3, 2023
This is such a lovely book dealing with life changes, finding your place, and the magic within you. Readers are going to be swept away on a great adventure. It is the perfect book for those who love mystical worlds, or love role play games. Ben is super relatable, and the humor found in the Prophets’ world they built rings just the perfect tone throughout this story. I quite enjoyed all the artwork as well. It really tied into the building a world within a game idea.
Thank you so very much to Random House Childrens, Labyrinth Road, and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
Thank you so very much to Random House Childrens, Labyrinth Road, and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
September 9, 2023
This is a dream made real for any kid who grew up with a set of dice and a page of character sheets in front of them. Andrew Auseon sends his lonely protagonist, Ben, on the adventure of a lifetime, 100 times more unexpected and complex than any TTRPG he ever dreamt up for his friends (or former friends.)
From flying Narwhals to Playstation-filled panic rooms in the castle, there is something both original and familiar about the world Auseon creates. The book a love letter to the power of creativity and the idea that we find the people we are meant to find in the strangest, and most wonderful of places.
From flying Narwhals to Playstation-filled panic rooms in the castle, there is something both original and familiar about the world Auseon creates. The book a love letter to the power of creativity and the idea that we find the people we are meant to find in the strangest, and most wonderful of places.
May 31, 2023
I read an ARC copy of this book.
Whether or not you like the book is going to largely depend on how you feel about D&D type games and wackiness. Both abound and if you're a fan, you'll dig this book. Ben is very genre savvy which is nice to see in a book like this, but he still makes decisions that'll have you thinking, "Come on, man!" from time to time. The illustrations are very cool and I think the emotional core involving his homelife was very strong. There's also a very strong sequel hook that I was very curious about. Very solid and fun read!
Whether or not you like the book is going to largely depend on how you feel about D&D type games and wackiness. Both abound and if you're a fan, you'll dig this book. Ben is very genre savvy which is nice to see in a book like this, but he still makes decisions that'll have you thinking, "Come on, man!" from time to time. The illustrations are very cool and I think the emotional core involving his homelife was very strong. There's also a very strong sequel hook that I was very curious about. Very solid and fun read!
May 25, 2023
This book had me at the first page. That, to me, is a good, GOOD read. The entire time I am reading it I am thinking my grandkids would love this book. The author has such a wonderful grasp of voices and characters. Even the ones that are seen as the enemy have been created in such a way that kids want to see what will happen to them without being afraid. The imagination in the scenes is great also.
This book will captivate many middle grade readers. I recommend this one highly.
This book will captivate many middle grade readers. I recommend this one highly.
February 9, 2024
This was a really fun middle grade read and had so many elements that I love in a story and a world of make believe. I love when books use regular words as curse words. I love when books talk about the importance of stories and why humans write them and tell them. I love books that have prophecies that people choose to fulfill rather than decide to push away the prophecy because it didn’t fit what was happening. Ben is likable and I’m interested to see what happens to him next!
March 22, 2023
This story was so creative. A fantasy world where the kings guard do patrol on flying narwhals and have weapons that harness the power of lightning? The power of spellbinders that write in notebooks? Teenage Assassins that don’t want to kill? Magical people with the power to mimic? Magical realms? Old abandoned mansions that are secretly portals? Count. Me. In.
May 25, 2023
Excellent middle grade read for any kid (or grown up) who has felt lost and confused by change or not knowing what to do when someone you trust shouldn’t be trusted. Love the character card descriptions and feeling like I was Ben and also in Bens notebook. Favorite character was Merv and hope to see more of them some day. #wearethechangingpeople
August 13, 2023
I wanted something fun to read over the last holiday weekend and this fully fit the bill.
Really fun and interesting world and so cute and funny.
Middle grade fantasy will always be a favourite of mine because the stakes are so low but the emotion and adventure are always rich. It’s fun to get lost in a bright funny world for a couple hours.
Really fun and interesting world and so cute and funny.
Middle grade fantasy will always be a favourite of mine because the stakes are so low but the emotion and adventure are always rich. It’s fun to get lost in a bright funny world for a couple hours.
September 13, 2024
3.5⭐️ RTC, a fun read but had pacing issues and felt longer than it needed to be. Liked the overall message though and the illustrations were fantastic!
April 27, 2025
Cute. It explores themes of loneliness, divorce, friendship, chosen family and others in an accessible and creative way.
June 2, 2025
Fun book I read with my 8 year old. ;)
May 7, 2023
ARC provided by the publisher
After his parents' divorce, Ben isn't happy that his mother has moved him away from the city and his friends, with whom he had a role playing game group for Kingdom of Forever. The five are supposed to be meeting up for the Fantasy Fandom Convention, as has been their tradition, but his friends have VIP tickets and he's angry that they aren't doing things the same way they have been. While he's waiting for them to show up, he's approached by a girl in a fantastic costume who claims that he is the Chosen One. Dubious, he plays along, and is surprised to find himself drawn through a portal to the world of Lux. His notebook, which was a gift from his father, has the Prophet's Seal on it, so Niara has whisked him away, and he's soon riding down a mountain on a hulking usu named Sprinkles, escaping threats like the King's Wings and flying narwhals! He's still getting texts on his phone from his mother, so there's no panic about his whereabouts in the Earth world, but he finds that when he writes things down in the notebook, they come to pass. There are certain rules about what he can and can't make happen, but he uses this power to help Niara survive battles. There are some odd things in Lux, like a statue of the Prophet wearing seatpants and flip flops, and Ben isn't pleased to find out that the Prophecy that brought him to Lux says that he will find the Prophet's weapon... but then be killed! Ben meets Merv, a thief (whose pronouns are they/them) who wants to rob the king's treasury. The two manage to retrieve the weapon from the Gullet of Torment, but Ben ends up in the king's dungeon. The weapon is not what anyone expects, and sheds some surprising light on the entire kingdom. Can Ben use his powers to both save Lux and get back to Earth to reconnect with his mother and make new friends at school?
N.B. There's a great twist in this that I don't want to ruin.
Strengths: There is a certain kind of middle grade fantasy reader who has internalized Harry Potter and truly half believes that they will someday get sucked into a fantasy world. They write fan fiction, play Dungeons and Dragons, and frequently wear unicorn headbands or capes to school, and save their allowances to buy books. Their parents are often also fantasy readers. This is perfect for them. The middle school friend drama is on point, and it's nice to see that Ben manages to feel a bit better about his move in real life by the end of the book. There's a lot of action, and Ben starts to understand that battles are not glorious, but have sad consequences. There is also plenty of humor, from the stinky usu that he has to ride to the half-a-bubble-off quirks of the Prophet, like the oversize "Have a Nice Day" sacred t-shirts to the weird things that are considered bad language, like "butternut squash" and "cargo pants". There's an overall feeling of being in on a secret that is especially enticing. There's plenty of room for a sequel due to the twist at the end.
Weaknesses: At 432 pages, this is going to appeal to hard core fantasy readers, especially since this seems to be the first book in the series. In a nit picky moment, Ben talks about feeling woozy the way he did when he got his wisdom teeth out; Ben's no more than 13, and most people don't get their wisdom teeth removed until the end of high school or later.
What I really think: This is a great choice for readers who love hefty fantasy tomes like Kate O'Hearn's books, Shannon Messenger's epic Keeper of Lost Cities series or Townsend's Nevermore saga.
After his parents' divorce, Ben isn't happy that his mother has moved him away from the city and his friends, with whom he had a role playing game group for Kingdom of Forever. The five are supposed to be meeting up for the Fantasy Fandom Convention, as has been their tradition, but his friends have VIP tickets and he's angry that they aren't doing things the same way they have been. While he's waiting for them to show up, he's approached by a girl in a fantastic costume who claims that he is the Chosen One. Dubious, he plays along, and is surprised to find himself drawn through a portal to the world of Lux. His notebook, which was a gift from his father, has the Prophet's Seal on it, so Niara has whisked him away, and he's soon riding down a mountain on a hulking usu named Sprinkles, escaping threats like the King's Wings and flying narwhals! He's still getting texts on his phone from his mother, so there's no panic about his whereabouts in the Earth world, but he finds that when he writes things down in the notebook, they come to pass. There are certain rules about what he can and can't make happen, but he uses this power to help Niara survive battles. There are some odd things in Lux, like a statue of the Prophet wearing seatpants and flip flops, and Ben isn't pleased to find out that the Prophecy that brought him to Lux says that he will find the Prophet's weapon... but then be killed! Ben meets Merv, a thief (whose pronouns are they/them) who wants to rob the king's treasury. The two manage to retrieve the weapon from the Gullet of Torment, but Ben ends up in the king's dungeon. The weapon is not what anyone expects, and sheds some surprising light on the entire kingdom. Can Ben use his powers to both save Lux and get back to Earth to reconnect with his mother and make new friends at school?
N.B. There's a great twist in this that I don't want to ruin.
Strengths: There is a certain kind of middle grade fantasy reader who has internalized Harry Potter and truly half believes that they will someday get sucked into a fantasy world. They write fan fiction, play Dungeons and Dragons, and frequently wear unicorn headbands or capes to school, and save their allowances to buy books. Their parents are often also fantasy readers. This is perfect for them. The middle school friend drama is on point, and it's nice to see that Ben manages to feel a bit better about his move in real life by the end of the book. There's a lot of action, and Ben starts to understand that battles are not glorious, but have sad consequences. There is also plenty of humor, from the stinky usu that he has to ride to the half-a-bubble-off quirks of the Prophet, like the oversize "Have a Nice Day" sacred t-shirts to the weird things that are considered bad language, like "butternut squash" and "cargo pants". There's an overall feeling of being in on a secret that is especially enticing. There's plenty of room for a sequel due to the twist at the end.
Weaknesses: At 432 pages, this is going to appeal to hard core fantasy readers, especially since this seems to be the first book in the series. In a nit picky moment, Ben talks about feeling woozy the way he did when he got his wisdom teeth out; Ben's no more than 13, and most people don't get their wisdom teeth removed until the end of high school or later.
What I really think: This is a great choice for readers who love hefty fantasy tomes like Kate O'Hearn's books, Shannon Messenger's epic Keeper of Lost Cities series or Townsend's Nevermore saga.
June 8, 2023
(Review crossposted from my blog at sagareads.ink)
4.5/5
What kid hasn’t checked a wardrobe or two for their portal to glory and adventure? Ben, our titular Not-So-Chosen One, isn’t looking to travel to a fantasy world — he already does that by playing a TTRPG with his best friends. But when his drifting-apart friend group ditches him and a mysterious teenage assassin tells him he’s the only one who can save the world of Lux, well, he’d be mad to say no — even if he knows he’s not the Chosen One she’s looking for.
This book is fun. I’ll admit, some of the jokes and concepts — flying narwhals that shoot lightning and flip-flop wearing elders — were a little zany for me, but I’m not the target audience. From the perspective of an 11-year-old, Lux is awesome. And if I found myself skeptical of the world-building, well, there’s a very good in-lore reason Lux is so strange … but you’ll have to read the book to find out what it is.
Beyond just the fun factor, Ben’s emotional journey reads true, and the other characters range from good to pretty great (my favorite is, of course, the nonbinary shape-shifter). The ending sets me up to look forward to a sequel — I want to see more of this concept and these characters. All in all, a good gift for any D&D-loving 10- to 12-year-olds in your life — complete with humorous illustrations and statblocks, The Not-So-Chosen One will encourage readers to use their imagination and come up with their own worlds to adventure in.
4.5/5
What kid hasn’t checked a wardrobe or two for their portal to glory and adventure? Ben, our titular Not-So-Chosen One, isn’t looking to travel to a fantasy world — he already does that by playing a TTRPG with his best friends. But when his drifting-apart friend group ditches him and a mysterious teenage assassin tells him he’s the only one who can save the world of Lux, well, he’d be mad to say no — even if he knows he’s not the Chosen One she’s looking for.
This book is fun. I’ll admit, some of the jokes and concepts — flying narwhals that shoot lightning and flip-flop wearing elders — were a little zany for me, but I’m not the target audience. From the perspective of an 11-year-old, Lux is awesome. And if I found myself skeptical of the world-building, well, there’s a very good in-lore reason Lux is so strange … but you’ll have to read the book to find out what it is.
Beyond just the fun factor, Ben’s emotional journey reads true, and the other characters range from good to pretty great (my favorite is, of course, the nonbinary shape-shifter). The ending sets me up to look forward to a sequel — I want to see more of this concept and these characters. All in all, a good gift for any D&D-loving 10- to 12-year-olds in your life — complete with humorous illustrations and statblocks, The Not-So-Chosen One will encourage readers to use their imagination and come up with their own worlds to adventure in.
February 25, 2023
I recieved a free eARC of this book, Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
Ben used to have a great life, with a regular group of gaming friends, As the GM, he's able to control, the world. He writes his games, his stories, his notes in a special notebook. .
But after his parents divorce, and a move to a new place, his life spins out of control and his friens slip away, untjl he's left, sitting on a bench, alone, after being ditched before the biggest con of the year.
When Niara, an assassin approaches and tells him he is the chosen one and needed, he goes along assuming it's a game. Except that it turns out to be all too real. And so are the stories he writes. See, Ben is a Spellbinder...one with the gift of putting magic into words and turning words into magic. And he's the only hope of a world which seems both familiar and strange.
Kids who love magic will love this book. Introverted gamers will love this book. The characters both manage to fall into RPG standard parties (assassin (who is a girl) , wily shape shifting non-binary thief, handsome fighter, and, of course, our main character the mage) and be new and interesting. This is undoubtedly the set up for a series-and one which will be well recieved.
Ben used to have a great life, with a regular group of gaming friends, As the GM, he's able to control, the world. He writes his games, his stories, his notes in a special notebook. .
But after his parents divorce, and a move to a new place, his life spins out of control and his friens slip away, untjl he's left, sitting on a bench, alone, after being ditched before the biggest con of the year.
When Niara, an assassin approaches and tells him he is the chosen one and needed, he goes along assuming it's a game. Except that it turns out to be all too real. And so are the stories he writes. See, Ben is a Spellbinder...one with the gift of putting magic into words and turning words into magic. And he's the only hope of a world which seems both familiar and strange.
Kids who love magic will love this book. Introverted gamers will love this book. The characters both manage to fall into RPG standard parties (assassin (who is a girl) , wily shape shifting non-binary thief, handsome fighter, and, of course, our main character the mage) and be new and interesting. This is undoubtedly the set up for a series-and one which will be well recieved.
July 7, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley & Random House Children's for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
I'd like to rate it higher but it's just...such a weirdly written book. I know the protagonist is supposed to be a kid but he was absolutely insufferable and annoying. I also didn't like how the main girl was completely ignorant of everything and the protagonist had such a lovely time correcting and explaining everything to her...it left a bad taste in my mouth.
The worst part was how the protagonist's D&D group was painted as VILLAINS for "leaving" him. Then you find out that they were trying to talk to him about things and he just refused to acknowledge them and sent stupid cat gifs instead of talking like a human being. This never gets resolved and the lesson takeaway is "Things change and people grow apart from each other." Well, yes, but, in this case, Ben was stubborn and refusing to communicate his feelings with the rest of the group and was being really petty about the new member of the group. Things literally did NOT have to change if he just listened and talked with them.
It's a shame because the story concept is pretty fun but I just...have a lot of questions about some of the awful ideas presented as good in here.
I'd like to rate it higher but it's just...such a weirdly written book. I know the protagonist is supposed to be a kid but he was absolutely insufferable and annoying. I also didn't like how the main girl was completely ignorant of everything and the protagonist had such a lovely time correcting and explaining everything to her...it left a bad taste in my mouth.
The worst part was how the protagonist's D&D group was painted as VILLAINS for "leaving" him. Then you find out that they were trying to talk to him about things and he just refused to acknowledge them and sent stupid cat gifs instead of talking like a human being. This never gets resolved and the lesson takeaway is "Things change and people grow apart from each other." Well, yes, but, in this case, Ben was stubborn and refusing to communicate his feelings with the rest of the group and was being really petty about the new member of the group. Things literally did NOT have to change if he just listened and talked with them.
It's a shame because the story concept is pretty fun but I just...have a lot of questions about some of the awful ideas presented as good in here.
January 12, 2025
Not a fan. I just didn’t get it. The review is written with ChatGPT.
“The Chosen One Chronicles: Quest for Glory" is an entertaining middle-grade adventure that combines humor, fantasy, and a dash of self-discovery. The premise—a seventh-grader named Ben Whitlock accidentally thrust into a magical world where he’s mistaken for the prophesied hero—is undeniably fun. Who wouldn’t want to trade homework for epic quests and flying narwhals?
The story has plenty of quirky moments, like wise old mystics wearing flip-flops and a harrowing-sounding "Gullet of Eternal Torment," which should resonate with readers who love humor and unexpected twists. However, while the action is lively and the illustrations add charm, the plot sometimes feels a bit predictable. The "reluctant hero learning to be brave" trope is well-worn, and Ben’s character arc doesn’t really break new ground.
Still, the book delivers laughs and a lighthearted take on what it really means to be a hero. It’s a decent pick for kids who enjoy fast-paced, illustrated adventures. Just don’t expect anything groundbreaking
“The Chosen One Chronicles: Quest for Glory" is an entertaining middle-grade adventure that combines humor, fantasy, and a dash of self-discovery. The premise—a seventh-grader named Ben Whitlock accidentally thrust into a magical world where he’s mistaken for the prophesied hero—is undeniably fun. Who wouldn’t want to trade homework for epic quests and flying narwhals?
The story has plenty of quirky moments, like wise old mystics wearing flip-flops and a harrowing-sounding "Gullet of Eternal Torment," which should resonate with readers who love humor and unexpected twists. However, while the action is lively and the illustrations add charm, the plot sometimes feels a bit predictable. The "reluctant hero learning to be brave" trope is well-worn, and Ben’s character arc doesn’t really break new ground.
Still, the book delivers laughs and a lighthearted take on what it really means to be a hero. It’s a decent pick for kids who enjoy fast-paced, illustrated adventures. Just don’t expect anything groundbreaking
December 22, 2022
Ben, like many of my fellow TTRPG nerds, begins this story feeling incredibly lonely. His normal crew of friends have seemingly abandoned him, and his Mom has become even more distant since his family broke apart. Sitting on a bench at a convention where it seems he was once again left, he is scooped up by Niara - an assassin from Lux - who believes he is the chosen one. Unfortunately for Ben he starts to believe he may not in fact be the Chosen One, he may just be a guy with a notebook.
I'm going to be 100% honest here - I run D&D games, I write ridiculous worlds and adventures for fun for a group of friends so everything about this book was a joy for me. From the idea of the world when you truly find out it's source, to the magic that Ben discovers. I thought it was very cleverly done, and the messaging in this will really resonate with kids who have these types of hobbies (as we all seem to struggle with similar issues).
I thought the characters were clever and funny. I loved the casually diverse cast - and as a Non-Binary individual I adored a certain shape changing character you meet later in the series. The only real complaint I have about this book is that perhaps the start was a bit rocky. But once you get into the book, and really realize what exactly you're dealing with? It's hilarious and fantastic.
If you're a fan of middle grade fantasy, or a fan of TTRPGs I highly recommend this one. It's funny, inventive, and unique. I am definitely keeping my eyes out for the next in the series.
I'm going to be 100% honest here - I run D&D games, I write ridiculous worlds and adventures for fun for a group of friends so everything about this book was a joy for me. From the idea of the world when you truly find out it's source, to the magic that Ben discovers. I thought it was very cleverly done, and the messaging in this will really resonate with kids who have these types of hobbies (as we all seem to struggle with similar issues).
I thought the characters were clever and funny. I loved the casually diverse cast - and as a Non-Binary individual I adored a certain shape changing character you meet later in the series. The only real complaint I have about this book is that perhaps the start was a bit rocky. But once you get into the book, and really realize what exactly you're dealing with? It's hilarious and fantastic.
If you're a fan of middle grade fantasy, or a fan of TTRPGs I highly recommend this one. It's funny, inventive, and unique. I am definitely keeping my eyes out for the next in the series.
June 10, 2023
Okay so I love me an story about a chosen one and there have been many so when I saw the Blog Tour for Spellbinders The Not-So Chose One I was so intrigued.
I'm pleased to say that my intrigument was kept throughout the book and that was due to Andrew's skills as a writer. The world building and character building was off the scale and having information cards about the characters was pure genius. Yet the best thing was how Andrew threw the chosen one on it's head and questioned whether or not a prophecy was airtight and by following the story we all find out.
I also liked that the magic was not the usual wand but instead Andrew showed how words can be powerful if used in the right way.
I was loving it so much I purchased the Kindle and Audiobook which I listened to and I wanted to say that the Narrator was brilliant. I will be most certainly be carrying on with the series and can't wait to see what happens next.
For all the above reasons I am giving Spellbinders The Not So Chosen One 4 stars
I'm pleased to say that my intrigument was kept throughout the book and that was due to Andrew's skills as a writer. The world building and character building was off the scale and having information cards about the characters was pure genius. Yet the best thing was how Andrew threw the chosen one on it's head and questioned whether or not a prophecy was airtight and by following the story we all find out.
I also liked that the magic was not the usual wand but instead Andrew showed how words can be powerful if used in the right way.
I was loving it so much I purchased the Kindle and Audiobook which I listened to and I wanted to say that the Narrator was brilliant. I will be most certainly be carrying on with the series and can't wait to see what happens next.
For all the above reasons I am giving Spellbinders The Not So Chosen One 4 stars
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