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Epsilon
One insane king. One runaway princess. One warrior heir.
King James has always been a bit controlling, from his sisters' point of view. He'd prefer to call it being precise, but that's an argument for another day (which they do argue -- every day). Besides, his meticulous nature is necessary when it comes to running an entire kingdom, something his sisters would never understand with agendas full of dress fittings, lawn bowling, and giggling over suitors.
Adelina has never felt like she belonged, not as a royal, and not as a sister. No matter how much she has tried to fit into the boxes her family puts before her, she never seems to be enough. Driven to look outside the palace for comfort, she finds a home in the city and in helping the less fortunate. Soon enough, she is sneaking out any chance she can. Anything to get away from her brother's scowls and sister's whining.
Felicity's quiet nature has always made her the pet of the family, but playing mediator can only last so long. When outside forces begin to threaten the foundation of the royal family, revealing the cracks that have always lain beneath, will she be able to be the glue that holds them together, or will one event rip them and the Kingdom apart in ways none of them could ever expect?
In the face of tragedy and the threat of a hopeless war, neither of the three siblings know if they will survive, and what will remain of their legacy when the country begins questioning who really deserves the crown.
King James has always been a bit controlling, from his sisters' point of view. He'd prefer to call it being precise, but that's an argument for another day (which they do argue -- every day). Besides, his meticulous nature is necessary when it comes to running an entire kingdom, something his sisters would never understand with agendas full of dress fittings, lawn bowling, and giggling over suitors.
Adelina has never felt like she belonged, not as a royal, and not as a sister. No matter how much she has tried to fit into the boxes her family puts before her, she never seems to be enough. Driven to look outside the palace for comfort, she finds a home in the city and in helping the less fortunate. Soon enough, she is sneaking out any chance she can. Anything to get away from her brother's scowls and sister's whining.
Felicity's quiet nature has always made her the pet of the family, but playing mediator can only last so long. When outside forces begin to threaten the foundation of the royal family, revealing the cracks that have always lain beneath, will she be able to be the glue that holds them together, or will one event rip them and the Kingdom apart in ways none of them could ever expect?
In the face of tragedy and the threat of a hopeless war, neither of the three siblings know if they will survive, and what will remain of their legacy when the country begins questioning who really deserves the crown.
286 pages, Paperback
Published February 20, 2023
4 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Benty
12 books10 followersGrowing up, I was the kid who always had a book by my side and read it everywhere. When I turned 15, I began writing fairy tale stories and posting them online, finding a helpful and fun community in fellow teen writers. Almost 10 years later, and I am still writing those stories! Knowing several of my favorite authors were self-published and thriving really pushed me to be brave and start sharing my characters and worlds more widely.
I write what I read and adore. There's just something about settling in during a cozy evening with stories of far-off kingdoms, feisty princesses, and dashing princes that has always been a comfort to me. My dream is to be able to share some of the comfort and hominess that my favorite fairy tale authors have provided me with for years. I firmly believe that our favorite stories tell us things about ourselves we'd never know otherwise, whether that be an earnest desire for Jane Eyre's moral compass, a gentle hopefulness like Lucy Pevensie, or the beautiful self-acceptance that Gail Carson Levine's heroines always stumble upon. In my stories, I hope you find a glimmer of yourself and of the way God sees you--fully loved and fully known.
"I wrote fairy tales because the Fairy Tale seemed the ideal Form for the stuff I had to say." --C. S. Lewis
Follow my writing journey with sneak peeks and extra writing content by joining my email list: https://mailchi.mp/1ad169357e47/want-...
Note: Before getting married, I published under the name "Vicky Johnson." Both Many Worlds novels are written by me :)
I write what I read and adore. There's just something about settling in during a cozy evening with stories of far-off kingdoms, feisty princesses, and dashing princes that has always been a comfort to me. My dream is to be able to share some of the comfort and hominess that my favorite fairy tale authors have provided me with for years. I firmly believe that our favorite stories tell us things about ourselves we'd never know otherwise, whether that be an earnest desire for Jane Eyre's moral compass, a gentle hopefulness like Lucy Pevensie, or the beautiful self-acceptance that Gail Carson Levine's heroines always stumble upon. In my stories, I hope you find a glimmer of yourself and of the way God sees you--fully loved and fully known.
"I wrote fairy tales because the Fairy Tale seemed the ideal Form for the stuff I had to say." --C. S. Lewis
Follow my writing journey with sneak peeks and extra writing content by joining my email list: https://mailchi.mp/1ad169357e47/want-...
Note: Before getting married, I published under the name "Vicky Johnson." Both Many Worlds novels are written by me :)
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 19, 2023
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Gal. 6:2
Although this is not necessarily the most obvious Scripture connection for Epsilon, I find it to be very fitting. The novel focuses strongly on the relationship between three siblings, and this verse is for siblings in the Lord. We see the characters seeking to bear each other’s burdens: Felicity in her concern for her brother; Adelina in her desire to care for the members of her community (who are, themselves, caring for her and taking on the role of adoptive family members).
Spiritual Themes
Benty describes the book as an allegory, so I had certain presuppositions, going into the reading. As I read, I had a lot of trouble reconciling my understanding of allegory with the narrative I was reading. In fact, in my first draft of this post, I wrote, “This book is marketed as an allegory, but I wouldn’t use that descriptor.” However, upon further reflection, I see how the novel is an allegory— just not what I was expecting.
I was expecting the sort of allegory where there’s a clear and direct correspondence to biblical events/people. (And I was thrown off by the fact that God is represented by Alpha, the ruling dimension, which felt more like a pantheon to me). Rather than connecting the dots between the Bible and a narrative, Epsilon uses the story form to symbolically depict the struggle of grief—and how loss colors our relationship with God. And when I look at the story through that lens, I can appreciate its beauty, and I can also recognize why the author refers to it as allegory.
What I Liked
Epsilon was a fun read! I like reading about balls and pretty dresses, with sweet romance, so I enjoyed walking with Felicity in the days leading up to her birthday.
The story is told from the perspectives of three siblings: James, Adelina and Felicity. I feel that the shifting perspectives benefitted the pacing of the story, while also adding interest. I often read stories that alternate between the two romantic interests, but it was fun to read from the perspective of siblings. This also offered deeper insight into their relationships as siblings, as readers are able to encounter each character’s thoughts about their family members— and not just witness their familial interactions. On that note, I appreciate that the story, while featuring distinctive subplots, really focused on the sibling relationships. That’s not something I often read, but it does make for a beautiful story.
Respectful Critique
Regarding the setting: We learn that there are a couple dozen “dimensions” in the story of the universe, and travel seems to occur through some sort of portals in special parts of dimensions. This is an intriguing concept! However, aside from a few lines here and there, the idea really isn’t tapped into, or even explained. There’s also a bit of a mystery thread with some characters who were experimenting with interdimensional travel, but this is not explained either. I was left wanting more, which would have worked well if this book was tied to others, but my understanding is that it’s basically a standalone. (It’s book two in the series but I was told that book one simply takes place in the same universe.)
I also have mixed feelings about the portrayal of Alpha. On one hand, I appreciate that this realm is shrouded in mystery, since there’s an obvious connection between Alpha and God. (For instance, Alpha maintains unquestioned authority; the “ambassadors” of Alpha serve their communities within cathedrals.) On the other hand, I was disappointed with the very little interaction we see between characters and Alpha itself, and I was confused by Alpha being an entire realm, presumably peopled with many beings.
Content Notes
This is very minor, but there were a few suggestive lines (between/about married couples).
Overall Thoughts
Epsilon was an enjoyable read, with an interesting plot line and engaging characters. In my opinion, the plot very much steered the story— I would have liked to see a lot more development in terms of world building and untangling some of the hazier details. Still, it was a fun read, and the “allegorical” plot line made for a beautiful message.
Scripture Connection
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Gal. 6:2
Although this is not necessarily the most obvious Scripture connection for Epsilon, I find it to be very fitting. The novel focuses strongly on the relationship between three siblings, and this verse is for siblings in the Lord. We see the characters seeking to bear each other’s burdens: Felicity in her concern for her brother; Adelina in her desire to care for the members of her community (who are, themselves, caring for her and taking on the role of adoptive family members).
Spiritual Themes
Benty describes the book as an allegory, so I had certain presuppositions, going into the reading. As I read, I had a lot of trouble reconciling my understanding of allegory with the narrative I was reading. In fact, in my first draft of this post, I wrote, “This book is marketed as an allegory, but I wouldn’t use that descriptor.” However, upon further reflection, I see how the novel is an allegory— just not what I was expecting.
I was expecting the sort of allegory where there’s a clear and direct correspondence to biblical events/people. (And I was thrown off by the fact that God is represented by Alpha, the ruling dimension, which felt more like a pantheon to me). Rather than connecting the dots between the Bible and a narrative, Epsilon uses the story form to symbolically depict the struggle of grief—and how loss colors our relationship with God. And when I look at the story through that lens, I can appreciate its beauty, and I can also recognize why the author refers to it as allegory.
What I Liked
Epsilon was a fun read! I like reading about balls and pretty dresses, with sweet romance, so I enjoyed walking with Felicity in the days leading up to her birthday.
The story is told from the perspectives of three siblings: James, Adelina and Felicity. I feel that the shifting perspectives benefitted the pacing of the story, while also adding interest. I often read stories that alternate between the two romantic interests, but it was fun to read from the perspective of siblings. This also offered deeper insight into their relationships as siblings, as readers are able to encounter each character’s thoughts about their family members— and not just witness their familial interactions. On that note, I appreciate that the story, while featuring distinctive subplots, really focused on the sibling relationships. That’s not something I often read, but it does make for a beautiful story.
Respectful Critique
Regarding the setting: We learn that there are a couple dozen “dimensions” in the story of the universe, and travel seems to occur through some sort of portals in special parts of dimensions. This is an intriguing concept! However, aside from a few lines here and there, the idea really isn’t tapped into, or even explained. There’s also a bit of a mystery thread with some characters who were experimenting with interdimensional travel, but this is not explained either. I was left wanting more, which would have worked well if this book was tied to others, but my understanding is that it’s basically a standalone. (It’s book two in the series but I was told that book one simply takes place in the same universe.)
I also have mixed feelings about the portrayal of Alpha. On one hand, I appreciate that this realm is shrouded in mystery, since there’s an obvious connection between Alpha and God. (For instance, Alpha maintains unquestioned authority; the “ambassadors” of Alpha serve their communities within cathedrals.) On the other hand, I was disappointed with the very little interaction we see between characters and Alpha itself, and I was confused by Alpha being an entire realm, presumably peopled with many beings.
Content Notes
This is very minor, but there were a few suggestive lines (between/about married couples).
Overall Thoughts
Epsilon was an enjoyable read, with an interesting plot line and engaging characters. In my opinion, the plot very much steered the story— I would have liked to see a lot more development in terms of world building and untangling some of the hazier details. Still, it was a fun read, and the “allegorical” plot line made for a beautiful message.
February 18, 2023
I had clearly not read the synopsis very well because I didn't realize there was a faith element included.
Either way this book was simply not for me. I've read quite a lot of YA fiction but d put this one firmly in the much younger readers category. I found it simplistic and a little too heavy on the falling in love elements. Plus any difficulties that arise seemed to mysteriously vanish in a sentence or two, easily explained away by the legend "oh he/she won't tell me how they got out of that". Quite a lot of the book felt like a cop-out that might be acceptable to much younger readers.
I like a fantasy fiction and part of thar joy comes from exploring the author's new world. This was far too much like our own including the prosaic names like Dave and Alison. Apart from having some inter-dimensional travel there seemed very little fantasy to be had.
I note this is the first part of a two part series. I'm pretty sure I won't be reading any more by this author. Simply not my thing at all.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Either way this book was simply not for me. I've read quite a lot of YA fiction but d put this one firmly in the much younger readers category. I found it simplistic and a little too heavy on the falling in love elements. Plus any difficulties that arise seemed to mysteriously vanish in a sentence or two, easily explained away by the legend "oh he/she won't tell me how they got out of that". Quite a lot of the book felt like a cop-out that might be acceptable to much younger readers.
I like a fantasy fiction and part of thar joy comes from exploring the author's new world. This was far too much like our own including the prosaic names like Dave and Alison. Apart from having some inter-dimensional travel there seemed very little fantasy to be had.
I note this is the first part of a two part series. I'm pretty sure I won't be reading any more by this author. Simply not my thing at all.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 23, 2023
Review to come!
January 30, 2023
Epsilon by Victoria Benty is a dramatic and emotional story that will enthrall you to the very end. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this YA fantasy novel. But as I read it and became interested in the characters and setting, I enjoyed it very much. I would call this book a gritty fairy tale. Perhaps that sounds like an oxymoron, but if you read it, you’ll see.
Setting/Worldbuilding: This being a fantasy novel, of course I have to write about the setting and worldbuilding. Though I don’t read much fantasy, the setting of this book seemed pretty original to me. It was something like a portal fantasy, with twenty-six dimensions settled by people originating from Earth. The cultures of the worlds differed based on when and where they split off from Earth.
Epsilon, where most of this story is set, has a Regency England feeling to it. The princesses each have an opulent coming-out ball at age sixteen. While modern technology does exist, it is forbidden, because the inflexible King James wants to keep Epsilon old-fashioned.
Other dimensions have different cultures, like Zeta, with an eighteenth-century France ambiance. Some are more modern, though we don’t get to see any of them in this story. One is populated by faeries. The head dimension, Alpha, is not described much, but it is apparently all-knowing and represents God in this story. More on that later.
Apparently, the author’s other full-length novel is set in the same universe. I may read it someday, and I hope the author writes more stories in the same world.
Characters: The characters may have been my favorite part of this story. They were all realistic, well-written, and likable. James went from a likable character to a near-insane one who made despicable decisions, but I suppose the change was realistic. Adelina was an unconventional and free-spirited princess, seemingly self-assured but truly conflicted. Felicity was sweet and gentle but determined.
Owen was my favorite character, and I regret that he was not very present in much of the story. His love for Felicity was so sweet. We saw very little of Peregrin, but he could have been a great character if he appeared more. Adelina’s “found family”–Dave, Alison, and their two children–were also amazing people.
Plot: The plot started out easy-going and straightforward, but at about one third of the way in, it became a lot more intense and high-stakes. It was captivating enough to make me keep reading on even when I knew I should set it down.
Style/Voice: To be honest, the style of this book was much better than I expected. It was never stilted or stiff. There were a few typos (at least in the ARC I read), but frankly not as many as I expected, and none that really detracted from the reading experience.
Content: The Christian content in this book was not really what I expected. It is somewhat allegorical and, as I mentioned above, God is represented by the dimension called Alpha. I’m not sure that aspect of the story completely worked. We’re never told what Alpha really is. Is it a civilization like all the other dimensions or a being? However, I liked it more towards the very end, especially when Alpha told James he was forgiven. The theme of this book revolves around blaming or getting angry at God when bad things happen, and later coming to peace with Him about it.
Potentially triggering content (spoiler): (But this happens fairly early in the book so it’s not much of a spoiler.)
The words “dammit” and “hellish” are each used once.
All in all, I loved this book, even though it isn’t in the genre I usually read. If you enjoy fairy-tale or historical fantasy, you should definitely read Epsilon.
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Setting/Worldbuilding: This being a fantasy novel, of course I have to write about the setting and worldbuilding. Though I don’t read much fantasy, the setting of this book seemed pretty original to me. It was something like a portal fantasy, with twenty-six dimensions settled by people originating from Earth. The cultures of the worlds differed based on when and where they split off from Earth.
Epsilon, where most of this story is set, has a Regency England feeling to it. The princesses each have an opulent coming-out ball at age sixteen. While modern technology does exist, it is forbidden, because the inflexible King James wants to keep Epsilon old-fashioned.
Other dimensions have different cultures, like Zeta, with an eighteenth-century France ambiance. Some are more modern, though we don’t get to see any of them in this story. One is populated by faeries. The head dimension, Alpha, is not described much, but it is apparently all-knowing and represents God in this story. More on that later.
Apparently, the author’s other full-length novel is set in the same universe. I may read it someday, and I hope the author writes more stories in the same world.
Characters: The characters may have been my favorite part of this story. They were all realistic, well-written, and likable. James went from a likable character to a near-insane one who made despicable decisions, but I suppose the change was realistic. Adelina was an unconventional and free-spirited princess, seemingly self-assured but truly conflicted. Felicity was sweet and gentle but determined.
Owen was my favorite character, and I regret that he was not very present in much of the story. His love for Felicity was so sweet. We saw very little of Peregrin, but he could have been a great character if he appeared more. Adelina’s “found family”–Dave, Alison, and their two children–were also amazing people.
Plot: The plot started out easy-going and straightforward, but at about one third of the way in, it became a lot more intense and high-stakes. It was captivating enough to make me keep reading on even when I knew I should set it down.
Style/Voice: To be honest, the style of this book was much better than I expected. It was never stilted or stiff. There were a few typos (at least in the ARC I read), but frankly not as many as I expected, and none that really detracted from the reading experience.
Content: The Christian content in this book was not really what I expected. It is somewhat allegorical and, as I mentioned above, God is represented by the dimension called Alpha. I’m not sure that aspect of the story completely worked. We’re never told what Alpha really is. Is it a civilization like all the other dimensions or a being? However, I liked it more towards the very end, especially when Alpha told James he was forgiven. The theme of this book revolves around blaming or getting angry at God when bad things happen, and later coming to peace with Him about it.
Potentially triggering content (spoiler): (But this happens fairly early in the book so it’s not much of a spoiler.)
The words “dammit” and “hellish” are each used once.
All in all, I loved this book, even though it isn’t in the genre I usually read. If you enjoy fairy-tale or historical fantasy, you should definitely read Epsilon.
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 2, 2023
I thought this was a refreshing take on a portal fantasy, and a royal one at that. I'm not usually one for books with a war, but this caught my attention. The characters were lovable. The book accurately tackles what it's like to love your siblings even when it's difficult. I certainly think the antagonist had solid reasoning for their actions instead of being evil for the sake of it.
There was a section at the end of the book, a few chapters, that suddenly felt like they were written by an entirely different author. I couldn't tell where the sudden change in genre and voice came from. It threw me for a little bit, and it almost felt like a cop out. However, by the end it was back to the comfortable tone and voice that I enjoyed.
Overall, Epsilon was unique and definitely worth the time.
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
There was a section at the end of the book, a few chapters, that suddenly felt like they were written by an entirely different author. I couldn't tell where the sudden change in genre and voice came from. It threw me for a little bit, and it almost felt like a cop out. However, by the end it was back to the comfortable tone and voice that I enjoyed.
Overall, Epsilon was unique and definitely worth the time.
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
January 30, 2023
Engaging, insightful story of a royal family working through heartache and all struggling to maintain integrity. Excellent plot, complex -yet clear. Although too much is told, an impressive amount is shown and there is solid character development to throughout. Elements of science fiction as well as fantasy enhance this tale, though, for another star, would like to see a revised version with more exploration of those elements in its framework, given some of the opportunities within. A few typos need editing and details need ironing out but these are minor. Epsilon is creative and interesting, and a story I was reluctant to put down. I would hope not just for a revision, but a sequel.
March 4, 2023
Honestly, this is a 3.5 star read for me (which I think is still a good rating, right?). This book was really intriguing and I liked the concept. A higher power people look up to, especially this kingdom, and there are no warnings or explanations when tragedy strikes. I really enjoyed the characters and how they were portrayed, especially Felecity, who is young and trying to figure everything out, especially after witnessing unfortunate circumstances. I honestly did not see a few aspects coming, which is good because I can usually figure things out pretty early on. The conflict really caught me attention, especially when reading one conflict from multiple perspectives or one perspective that leaves a domino effect throughout the story.
This wasn't a five star read for me because the plot seemed slow during some parts, which is totally okay and usually how it goes. But when I got to the middle of the book, the climax (or leading to the climax) did not feel as such to me. This is most likely because of me and not the writing itself. As of recently, I have been reading more new adult books rather than young adult. I, however, do think the plot is unique. There were a few times I was confused or had to remind myself something happened this way and not the way my brain imagined it (i.e. the parents and their passing, which is stated in the very beginning of the book).
Overall, I did enjoy this book. If I had read this in a different time, I'm sure it would have been a five star read. But I think that's part of the magic of reading. I am also a firm believer that every reader is different. Every piece written is a work of art in some way, shape, or form and it takes power to put pen to paper and write such an emotional piece as this one (especially with the trigger warnings).
I did receive a free copy to review, so thank you, Victoria Benty and Booksirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
This wasn't a five star read for me because the plot seemed slow during some parts, which is totally okay and usually how it goes. But when I got to the middle of the book, the climax (or leading to the climax) did not feel as such to me. This is most likely because of me and not the writing itself. As of recently, I have been reading more new adult books rather than young adult. I, however, do think the plot is unique. There were a few times I was confused or had to remind myself something happened this way and not the way my brain imagined it (i.e. the parents and their passing, which is stated in the very beginning of the book).
Overall, I did enjoy this book. If I had read this in a different time, I'm sure it would have been a five star read. But I think that's part of the magic of reading. I am also a firm believer that every reader is different. Every piece written is a work of art in some way, shape, or form and it takes power to put pen to paper and write such an emotional piece as this one (especially with the trigger warnings).
I did receive a free copy to review, so thank you, Victoria Benty and Booksirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
March 2, 2023
*Thank you BookSirens for the ARC! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.*
The Kingdom of Epsilon is one of twenty-six known worlds, ruled by young King James. His two sisters, Felicity and Adelina, have their own pursuits. Adelina enjoys visiting the town while Felicity prepares in earnest for her coming-of-age ball. The siblings are often at odds with one another, and further driven apart when tragedy strikes. An impending war exposes the cracks in their family, and the siblings are set at odds with one another.
Those looking for a younger YA read will enjoy this portal-fantasy. If you liked The Selection by Kiera Cass, you might like the coming-of-age ball and matchmaking for alliance purposes element.
I think this book could benefit from another round of edits. The dialogue is a bit clunky, with lots of repeated words (e.g. "No, no..." "Nope, nope, nope."). Chapters were prone to head-hopping, where we would start with one character's thought and feelings then transition to those of another character or multiple characters. Done skillfully, this can be a great narrative tool but I felt it fell flat here and made for a disorienting POV. Additionally, I felt that the story didn't really pick up until Chapter 12. Also something nitpicky is that Epsilon doesn't allow technology, and the setting reads as a very typical fantasy-set realm, but then they have access to spaceships for multidimensional travel. I was thrown for a loop when those came in. The ending was abrupt and subverted the tension that had been building throughout.
The Kingdom of Epsilon is one of twenty-six known worlds, ruled by young King James. His two sisters, Felicity and Adelina, have their own pursuits. Adelina enjoys visiting the town while Felicity prepares in earnest for her coming-of-age ball. The siblings are often at odds with one another, and further driven apart when tragedy strikes. An impending war exposes the cracks in their family, and the siblings are set at odds with one another.
Those looking for a younger YA read will enjoy this portal-fantasy. If you liked The Selection by Kiera Cass, you might like the coming-of-age ball and matchmaking for alliance purposes element.
I think this book could benefit from another round of edits. The dialogue is a bit clunky, with lots of repeated words (e.g. "No, no..." "Nope, nope, nope."). Chapters were prone to head-hopping, where we would start with one character's thought and feelings then transition to those of another character or multiple characters. Done skillfully, this can be a great narrative tool but I felt it fell flat here and made for a disorienting POV. Additionally, I felt that the story didn't really pick up until Chapter 12. Also something nitpicky is that Epsilon doesn't allow technology, and the setting reads as a very typical fantasy-set realm, but then they have access to spaceships for multidimensional travel. I was thrown for a loop when those came in. The ending was abrupt and subverted the tension that had been building throughout.
February 23, 2023
As I read the author's note when I just finished the book, I found out that this was supposed to be a faith-inspired novel. Thinking back, I may see some points to that, but I wouldn't have thought so initially.
I started this book, because I enjoyed the plot description, but I did have a really hard time getting into the story. A little more than half way through, it finally caught my attention and had some action and the story moved forward quite a bit.
The POVs change throughout the chapters and sometimes, I felt it to be a bit confusing to figure out who's POV it actually was.
I liked that the story is about three siblings and finding their way and the concept is interesting. However, I would have liked more world building and some more explanations as to what the dimensions are about.
The book still was enjoyable and definitely something younger readers. My favorite POV was Adeline and Felicity had her moments as well as Ms Walden.
I received a complimentary edition for this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I started this book, because I enjoyed the plot description, but I did have a really hard time getting into the story. A little more than half way through, it finally caught my attention and had some action and the story moved forward quite a bit.
The POVs change throughout the chapters and sometimes, I felt it to be a bit confusing to figure out who's POV it actually was.
I liked that the story is about three siblings and finding their way and the concept is interesting. However, I would have liked more world building and some more explanations as to what the dimensions are about.
The book still was enjoyable and definitely something younger readers. My favorite POV was Adeline and Felicity had her moments as well as Ms Walden.
I received a complimentary edition for this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a quick and enjoyable read. I did really enjoy the idea of the world it is based in and its "origin story" and how it exists as part of the larger world/dimensions. This is a good idea that could be built upon for further stories and expanding into different worlds and characters, etc. Overall, this story was good and I enjoyed the characters and some of the relationships as well, however, the madness of King James and his inner manic thoughts and actions were a bit of a turn off. All in all, I enjoyed it though and am curious about what happens to these characters next.
This was a quick and enjoyable read. I did really enjoy the idea of the world it is based in and its "origin story" and how it exists as part of the larger world/dimensions. This is a good idea that could be built upon for further stories and expanding into different worlds and characters, etc. Overall, this story was good and I enjoyed the characters and some of the relationships as well, however, the madness of King James and his inner manic thoughts and actions were a bit of a turn off. All in all, I enjoyed it though and am curious about what happens to these characters next.
July 30, 2024
I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, but I saw a review that said it was like a cross between Narnia and A Wrinkle in Time (which it most definitely is) so I decided to give it a try.
I didn’t realize until I was halfway through the book that it’s actually the second book of a series so now I’m going to have to go back and read the first one!
The first half of the book was very confusing, but in a way that made me want to keep reading it. The second half was fast paced and full of action. It was so good that I finished reading it in a little less than a week.
A great story of redemption and forgiveness:)
I didn’t realize until I was halfway through the book that it’s actually the second book of a series so now I’m going to have to go back and read the first one!
The first half of the book was very confusing, but in a way that made me want to keep reading it. The second half was fast paced and full of action. It was so good that I finished reading it in a little less than a week.
A great story of redemption and forgiveness:)
March 27, 2023
This was a young adult novel that felt like it was made for younger adults. There were some spiritual themes that were okay, but I don't think it added or took from the story. I liked the multiple point of views and how it was done though siblings which I have not seen many times. I wish this book went more into the other dimensions that are sometimes talked about during the book. Overall, this book was an average read for me.
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.
February 11, 2024
Good Job
Was so excited to read this story again! Originally read your stories on Quotev and so happy you have used your talent to become an author
Was so excited to read this story again! Originally read your stories on Quotev and so happy you have used your talent to become an author
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