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Treasure Hunters Alliance #1
Fortress of the Lost Amulet
Part Indiana Jones. Part Percy Jackson. All fantasy adventure.
Peter cares about three things: his family, his friends, and escaping an apprenticeship he hates. He works to appease his parents but bides his time until he can adventure on his own.
Rumors surface of a legendary treasure, the Amulet of Power, that’s been lost for centuries. When a clue to the artifact’s location falls in their laps, Peter and his friends embark on a quest to uncover the long-forgotten mysteries of the fabled prize.
Unfortunately, the group of friends aren’t the only ones seeking it. An enemy will stop at nothing to receive the limitless power the Amulet supplies. The closer Peter gets, the higher the stakes become. Not only is his city threatened, but the lives of his friends and family hang in the balance, and the only way to save them is to find the treasure first.
From the hot new young-adult fantasy author Michael Webb comes an epic adventure of treasure, danger, incredible powers, betrayal, and found family.
Peter cares about three things: his family, his friends, and escaping an apprenticeship he hates. He works to appease his parents but bides his time until he can adventure on his own.
Rumors surface of a legendary treasure, the Amulet of Power, that’s been lost for centuries. When a clue to the artifact’s location falls in their laps, Peter and his friends embark on a quest to uncover the long-forgotten mysteries of the fabled prize.
Unfortunately, the group of friends aren’t the only ones seeking it. An enemy will stop at nothing to receive the limitless power the Amulet supplies. The closer Peter gets, the higher the stakes become. Not only is his city threatened, but the lives of his friends and family hang in the balance, and the only way to save them is to find the treasure first.
From the hot new young-adult fantasy author Michael Webb comes an epic adventure of treasure, danger, incredible powers, betrayal, and found family.
337 pages, Paperback
First published February 25, 2023
163 people are currently reading
3368 people want to read
About the author
Michael Webb
10 books153 followersMichael Webb is a fantasy author who lives in Georgia, northwest of Atlanta. A graduate of Berry College, he is married and has a son. He began writing on a whim in 2019 and fell in love with it. In addition to finishing The Shadow Knights Trilogy, he plans to write additional books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
July 26, 2023
Part Indiana Jones. Part Percy Jackson.
You can get it for free on YouTube by Epic Fantasy Books!
This is geared towards younger readers, but I was drawn by its tagline. There was nothing stand-out about this - a group of friends who discover clues leading them to a legendary treasure with enemies willing to do whatever to get their hands on it first.
Admittedly, the girls were stereotypically girlish - ew, there’s a rat, oh no she’s kidnapped - but interestingly, one of the main boy characters is depicted as clumsy and slightly cowardly which was refreshing.
A good pick for younger siblings, children, and pets apparently (my cat seemed to really enjoy it too)!
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You can get it for free on YouTube by Epic Fantasy Books!
This is geared towards younger readers, but I was drawn by its tagline. There was nothing stand-out about this - a group of friends who discover clues leading them to a legendary treasure with enemies willing to do whatever to get their hands on it first.
Admittedly, the girls were stereotypically girlish - ew, there’s a rat, oh no she’s kidnapped - but interestingly, one of the main boy characters is depicted as clumsy and slightly cowardly which was refreshing.
A good pick for younger siblings, children, and pets apparently (my cat seemed to really enjoy it too)!
Bookstagram
June 8, 2023
Read for SPFBO, this is only my personal opinion, group verdict might differ widely! 💥
3,5* rounded up
I really enjoyed Fortress of the Lost Amulet right from the start. A main strength for me was the group of 4 best friends and main characters. Two young men and two young women, from different parts of society who formed a close group and like to go on adventures, maybe break into a house or steal a little something as well.
The whole book is on the quick and easy side, with plenty of action and a fast pace. It also has some mysteries and riddles that might in the end lead to a treasure, or just a myth?
There are some bits that I thought could have used a little bit more depth. The villain for example is rather too stereotypical, and even comes with the obligatory "speech".
There's also the small type bully, who is also the walking stereotype of the rich boy who keeps making life hard for those "beneath him".
Or one of the girls who keeps screaming at inopportune times when there's a rat for example. I mean once would be ok, but you wouldn't take someone who keeps doing this on a heist into a place that got high security.
These things didn't ruin the story obviously, but with some more nuance there, and some more smoothing this could have been a pretty perfect read for me - especially as the story is pretty much zero romance, which was a big plus for me!
All in all this was a really entertaining and quick read, with a nicely closed story arc. The last chapter is a bit of a lead over to book two, and worked well to catch my interest instead of feeling like an annoying cliffhanger.
3,5* rounded up
I really enjoyed Fortress of the Lost Amulet right from the start. A main strength for me was the group of 4 best friends and main characters. Two young men and two young women, from different parts of society who formed a close group and like to go on adventures, maybe break into a house or steal a little something as well.
The whole book is on the quick and easy side, with plenty of action and a fast pace. It also has some mysteries and riddles that might in the end lead to a treasure, or just a myth?
There are some bits that I thought could have used a little bit more depth. The villain for example is rather too stereotypical, and even comes with the obligatory "speech".
There's also the small type bully, who is also the walking stereotype of the rich boy who keeps making life hard for those "beneath him".
Or one of the girls who keeps screaming at inopportune times when there's a rat for example. I mean once would be ok, but you wouldn't take someone who keeps doing this on a heist into a place that got high security.
These things didn't ruin the story obviously, but with some more nuance there, and some more smoothing this could have been a pretty perfect read for me - especially as the story is pretty much zero romance, which was a big plus for me!
All in all this was a really entertaining and quick read, with a nicely closed story arc. The last chapter is a bit of a lead over to book two, and worked well to catch my interest instead of feeling like an annoying cliffhanger.
Read
June 14, 2024Great idea for a story for the younger audience. However, I found the actions of 2 of the characters annoying. Being told not to do something repeatedly from their friends and co-explorers because of the danger they might be placed in, the 2 went ahead anyway and did what they wanted. Unfortunately this got on my nerves as it happened more than once that I read. Because of this and possible future instances of the same I'm going to put this aside.
However, minus the above, from what I read it was pretty interesting. As I said, a younger audience would probably appreciate this more than I.
However, minus the above, from what I read it was pretty interesting. As I said, a younger audience would probably appreciate this more than I.
October 26, 2023
My 25th SPFBO-9 read was Fortress of the Lost Amulet by Michael Webb. Although I don't have a lot of confidence that it would make it far in the competition, I have to admit the timing for me to read this couldn't have been better. I had so much fun with this one. I was right in the middle of an almost month long reading slump and this one's light hearted trope filled story was just what I needed for a break.
The pacing was very steady throughout this read. I opted for the audiobook version which was narrated by Tim Campbell. I thought Tim did a great job in giving this story and it's characters life. As I mentioned above, I had bee slogging through reads lately, not necessarily bad reads, just not enjoying them as much as usual. The hunt for the lost amulet brought me back to my usual enjoyment of reading for a time. I didn't have any real issues with names or keeping up with what was going on which is always important for me when listening to audiobooks as I'm usually multitasking when doing so.
The worldbuilding seemed like a traditional fantasy world with Michaels own twists for his story. I didn't really feel surprised by anything but this story and it's world just felt like a nice warm blanket and hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter night for me. The author does do a great job in describing his world though so that we feel immersed in his story.
The character development is probably the strongest aspect to this read. Our protagonist certainly goes through his own growth and struggles along the way, but we have some excellent supporting characters for us to buy into the importance of finding the lost amulet and what that means not only for our character but the world in general.
I was pleasantly surprised with the Fortress of the Lost Amulet and I see that book two is already available so it is getting added to my list of series to continue as time allows.
As far as recommendations go I think the opening blurb on Goodreads is a very fitting description of this story. "Part Indiana Jones. Part Percy Jackson, All fantasy adventure." If that sounds interesting to you, I'd certainly check it out! It's a relatively short read or listen as well at just over 300 pages or around 9 hours on audiobook (or shorter if you speed things up), meaning it's fairly easy to squeeze into a busy reading schedule if you just need a fantasy equivalent to comfort food.
The pacing was very steady throughout this read. I opted for the audiobook version which was narrated by Tim Campbell. I thought Tim did a great job in giving this story and it's characters life. As I mentioned above, I had bee slogging through reads lately, not necessarily bad reads, just not enjoying them as much as usual. The hunt for the lost amulet brought me back to my usual enjoyment of reading for a time. I didn't have any real issues with names or keeping up with what was going on which is always important for me when listening to audiobooks as I'm usually multitasking when doing so.
The worldbuilding seemed like a traditional fantasy world with Michaels own twists for his story. I didn't really feel surprised by anything but this story and it's world just felt like a nice warm blanket and hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter night for me. The author does do a great job in describing his world though so that we feel immersed in his story.
The character development is probably the strongest aspect to this read. Our protagonist certainly goes through his own growth and struggles along the way, but we have some excellent supporting characters for us to buy into the importance of finding the lost amulet and what that means not only for our character but the world in general.
I was pleasantly surprised with the Fortress of the Lost Amulet and I see that book two is already available so it is getting added to my list of series to continue as time allows.
As far as recommendations go I think the opening blurb on Goodreads is a very fitting description of this story. "Part Indiana Jones. Part Percy Jackson, All fantasy adventure." If that sounds interesting to you, I'd certainly check it out! It's a relatively short read or listen as well at just over 300 pages or around 9 hours on audiobook (or shorter if you speed things up), meaning it's fairly easy to squeeze into a busy reading schedule if you just need a fantasy equivalent to comfort food.
March 1, 2023
Received as a review copy from Story Origin, this is an honest review. What an amazing, ambitious and adventurous journey this book is that launches this epic fantasy series. Michael Webb not only grabs your attention from the first page; he has crafted a living and breathing world of Palenting that Peter and his friends call home. While this story surrounds the high octane adventure of discovering the truth and secrets of and ancient amulet that everyone desires; cleverly hidden behind a labyrinth of complex puzzle surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Its also about poignant and personal stories of Peter whom is desperate to bring his family out of bone- crushing debt to Sephiri haunting, tragic past you won't be able to forget. This story also delivers up some of the best antagonistic characters through Ashton and Razor that are twisted and want to see dropped down a peg. Worth every minute of your time, highly recommended.
February 12, 2023
Great start to a new series from Michael Webb. Can’t wait for the 2nd book in the series to come out!
Want to read
January 24, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBO9 contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
A cruel lord lets a man fight him for his freedom, but the amulet around his neck makes him like a god (billed as Indiana Jones meets Percy Jackson).
That’s the prologue anyway. The 350yr time jump that begins chapter 1 leaves me scratching my head, but, despite that, this opening has done more than enough to get my interest.
It is active, focused 3rd person close on our cruel lord (that is, in the prologue). The dialogue is purposeful and to the point and revealing of character, and the narration doesn’t bog down the action.
The action itself, by which I mean more than just the swordplay, is engaging and equally focused. This whole prologue has a great sense of pace and makes good use of its page count.
Really, it introduces 3 things - our cruel lord who decides to fight this large prisoner for sport, his dark haired lady who looks on in mounting excitement, and the magic of the story in the form of a mysterious amulet our lord wears.
It does all these things in an effective and understated way, showing us what it wants to establish instead of telling us. Whatever happens after the time skip, it deserves attention for that.
I might have liked a hint of more detail, really just a sentence or two about exactly what our MCs lordship was - and it would have been good if our prisoner was more than just “a man.” But these things feel trifling.
This seems like a fun, active fantasy with dramatic villainy and competent, highly readable prose that moves right along. I’m eager to meet our protagonists and see where this adventure goes. I’m in.
A cruel lord lets a man fight him for his freedom, but the amulet around his neck makes him like a god (billed as Indiana Jones meets Percy Jackson).
That’s the prologue anyway. The 350yr time jump that begins chapter 1 leaves me scratching my head, but, despite that, this opening has done more than enough to get my interest.
It is active, focused 3rd person close on our cruel lord (that is, in the prologue). The dialogue is purposeful and to the point and revealing of character, and the narration doesn’t bog down the action.
The action itself, by which I mean more than just the swordplay, is engaging and equally focused. This whole prologue has a great sense of pace and makes good use of its page count.
Really, it introduces 3 things - our cruel lord who decides to fight this large prisoner for sport, his dark haired lady who looks on in mounting excitement, and the magic of the story in the form of a mysterious amulet our lord wears.
It does all these things in an effective and understated way, showing us what it wants to establish instead of telling us. Whatever happens after the time skip, it deserves attention for that.
I might have liked a hint of more detail, really just a sentence or two about exactly what our MCs lordship was - and it would have been good if our prisoner was more than just “a man.” But these things feel trifling.
This seems like a fun, active fantasy with dramatic villainy and competent, highly readable prose that moves right along. I’m eager to meet our protagonists and see where this adventure goes. I’m in.
June 23, 2023
I had so much fun with this book! It was entertaining the whole time, I was intrigued to know what was going to happen next, and I was truly worried about some of the characters because this is not a cute and happy world!
It was compared to Percy Jackson and Indiana Jones, and I absolutely understand the comparison! It is a fun adventure with friends looking for hidden treasures and solving riddles.
It did read on the younger side of YA, so it was almost a middle-grade, in my opinion, but still with darker themes and some intense situations that felt more adult, so overall it was a great balance.
The audiobook was amazing, I loved the narrator and I could differentiate the characters easily.
It felt repetitive at times, with the same scenarios happening multiple times, but I did think it was funny when one of the characters went "oh, not again!" in one of the situations!
I will definitely continue the series! I recommend this book to anyone who likes fun adventure with younger characters!
It was compared to Percy Jackson and Indiana Jones, and I absolutely understand the comparison! It is a fun adventure with friends looking for hidden treasures and solving riddles.
It did read on the younger side of YA, so it was almost a middle-grade, in my opinion, but still with darker themes and some intense situations that felt more adult, so overall it was a great balance.
The audiobook was amazing, I loved the narrator and I could differentiate the characters easily.
It felt repetitive at times, with the same scenarios happening multiple times, but I did think it was funny when one of the characters went "oh, not again!" in one of the situations!
I will definitely continue the series! I recommend this book to anyone who likes fun adventure with younger characters!
June 27, 2023
A friend group that go on heists and solve cryptic riddles and love, help and appreciate each other along the way? What's not to love?
November 14, 2025
Intended for a much, much younger audience.
December 26, 2022
Amazing Read for YA Adventure Lovers. This book was a great story of friendship and coming of age. I found it to have a Harry Potter and Indiana Jones feel: friends, trouble, and overcoming obstacles. Michael Webb is definitely an amazing author for the YA genre!
June 20, 2024
There were parts of this book that were fun. The magic system was also fun and easy to grasp, though inconsistent at times. The characters fall into some tropes, inexperienced leader that has dumb luck. But who's also annoyingly clumsy. Smart girl from a wealthy family who has a broad education but focuses on her hyperfixation. The stray, who has connections and hides their backstory until it's convent as a plot device. And then you have the oaf. He's strong, not too bright, and he's built like an Ox and always touches the things he's not supposed to or is unaware of his own strength. He even does the *pound fist into palm* thing.
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There were some great aspects of this story. The world building was fun, the sense of adventure in the places they went, fun. But I can not tell you how much it hurt to keep listening to this story at work when I kid you not. They break into a place and get caught because someone screamed because of a rat. Give you two guesses as to who it was...
And the morality of the characters was all over the place. Two people are killed because of something one of the characters stole. And they have no remorse. Just before, an attempt at trying to return the item. Their internal monologue is about how right it feels for the item to be with him. Their main leader lives on a farm that has the crops, but they're in debt from not being able to farm it from a lack of hands. And instead of asking friends for their aid. They don't show up to help until most of it has burned down. Mentions his mother's stresses induced memory lass and how he's being mistaken for his dead older brother. But never once eludes that it could be from her grief. And his father doesn't talk about how bad things are while they get worse on the farm
The well off rich girl has the same problems that every rich girl has. The main difference is that her parents are decent people.
The stray, orphan, rogue. Isn't hardened by her homelessness, she's not particularly street smart. Her biggest contribution is being a healer. And although everyone else rides the line of not killing. She's the only one semi-responsible for at least 6 deaths.
the oaf only has his mother relying on him. And other than his father passing. He doesn't stand out at all other than to trigger traps.
the main villain was also woefully disappointing. it was just a loan shark. That was out for an artifact.
The jr antagonist is a rich boy with an inferiority complex. With a kind of bad dad. That is either shamed by his son's actions or is more concerned with the public image and money. if the son kills him at some point in a future book, I wouldn't be surprised in the least. End rant and review.
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There were some great aspects of this story. The world building was fun, the sense of adventure in the places they went, fun. But I can not tell you how much it hurt to keep listening to this story at work when I kid you not. They break into a place and get caught because someone screamed because of a rat. Give you two guesses as to who it was...
And the morality of the characters was all over the place. Two people are killed because of something one of the characters stole. And they have no remorse. Just before, an attempt at trying to return the item. Their internal monologue is about how right it feels for the item to be with him. Their main leader lives on a farm that has the crops, but they're in debt from not being able to farm it from a lack of hands. And instead of asking friends for their aid. They don't show up to help until most of it has burned down. Mentions his mother's stresses induced memory lass and how he's being mistaken for his dead older brother. But never once eludes that it could be from her grief. And his father doesn't talk about how bad things are while they get worse on the farm
The well off rich girl has the same problems that every rich girl has. The main difference is that her parents are decent people.
The stray, orphan, rogue. Isn't hardened by her homelessness, she's not particularly street smart. Her biggest contribution is being a healer. And although everyone else rides the line of not killing. She's the only one semi-responsible for at least 6 deaths.
the oaf only has his mother relying on him. And other than his father passing. He doesn't stand out at all other than to trigger traps.
the main villain was also woefully disappointing. it was just a loan shark. That was out for an artifact.
The jr antagonist is a rich boy with an inferiority complex. With a kind of bad dad. That is either shamed by his son's actions or is more concerned with the public image and money. if the son kills him at some point in a future book, I wouldn't be surprised in the least. End rant and review.
August 12, 2023
I loved how absolutely pure and good-natured this book is. I don’t read much YA anymore simply because I find the conflicts and characterizations to be too juvenile to be enjoyable. I have to say that this was not the case with Webb’s novel. Were the characters young? Yes. Were there a few instances where their actions showed their ages? Also yes. But was it annoying? Nope. I felt like in these few instances, the actions and reactions matched the maturity of the characters in question.
Fortress of the Lost Amulet tells the story of Peter, Rylan, Sephiri, and Kira–a group of four friends from various walks of life as they search for a legendary artifact in order to prevent the Vipers, a street gang, from obtaining the power associated with the amulet. The four friends all come from various backgrounds and have different pitfalls, both in life and in personality, that they must overcome and face in order to successfully find the treasure together. Through research, puzzle solving, and pure adventure, the four friends discover the location of the lost amulet and intend to use the power for good, rather than evil.
I really enjoyed this story. It was extremely reminiscent of Indiana Jones or Jumanji, and I liked that there were various puzzles (both of strength and mental fortitude) that the four friends had to solve. If they weren’t working together, the puzzles would have been near impossible to solve, and I like that they relied on each other’s strengths throughout the book. This novel and premise easily could’ve been heavily expanded into multiple books, but I actually really liked that it is only novel per treasure. It gives the whole story a light and low-stakes feeling, which makes for an incredibly enjoyable read.
My only gripe is with Razor’s backstory. It’s unclear if the man that fights Vicion in the beginning of the book is Razor’s ancestor or just a random townsperson used to showcase the amulet’s strength. Part of me really wanted this to be Razor’s ancestor–especially with the two boys that were hiding behind their mother, watching the whole debacle unfold–but that also is just a personal preference or want of mine.
While I enjoyed most of the characters, I think my favorite was Rylan. Yes, he makes some stupid choices that make you palm your forehead throughout the book, but he’s so endearing. His whole personality and disposition reminds me of a lovable linebacker–like he’s not the smartest one of the group, but he’s got a heart of gold and would do anything to protect his friends.
I’m excited to read the second book and see where Michael takes this series and how the relationships expand between the four friends.
Fortress of the Lost Amulet tells the story of Peter, Rylan, Sephiri, and Kira–a group of four friends from various walks of life as they search for a legendary artifact in order to prevent the Vipers, a street gang, from obtaining the power associated with the amulet. The four friends all come from various backgrounds and have different pitfalls, both in life and in personality, that they must overcome and face in order to successfully find the treasure together. Through research, puzzle solving, and pure adventure, the four friends discover the location of the lost amulet and intend to use the power for good, rather than evil.
I really enjoyed this story. It was extremely reminiscent of Indiana Jones or Jumanji, and I liked that there were various puzzles (both of strength and mental fortitude) that the four friends had to solve. If they weren’t working together, the puzzles would have been near impossible to solve, and I like that they relied on each other’s strengths throughout the book. This novel and premise easily could’ve been heavily expanded into multiple books, but I actually really liked that it is only novel per treasure. It gives the whole story a light and low-stakes feeling, which makes for an incredibly enjoyable read.
My only gripe is with Razor’s backstory. It’s unclear if the man that fights Vicion in the beginning of the book is Razor’s ancestor or just a random townsperson used to showcase the amulet’s strength. Part of me really wanted this to be Razor’s ancestor–especially with the two boys that were hiding behind their mother, watching the whole debacle unfold–but that also is just a personal preference or want of mine.
While I enjoyed most of the characters, I think my favorite was Rylan. Yes, he makes some stupid choices that make you palm your forehead throughout the book, but he’s so endearing. His whole personality and disposition reminds me of a lovable linebacker–like he’s not the smartest one of the group, but he’s got a heart of gold and would do anything to protect his friends.
I’m excited to read the second book and see where Michael takes this series and how the relationships expand between the four friends.
May 12, 2023
The Fortress of the Lost Amulet is a fun adventure with a strong Indiana Jones feel and a great rag-tag group of friends. I particularly appreciated the author's focus on poverty and how the entire social system is stacked against the poor, keeping them trapped. It was well done and something I find unusual for a young adult fantasy adventure; definitely something I appreciate.
I also enjoyed the class clashes between the upper-class bully who thinks he can get away with anything and the lower class group who just wouldn't stop coming up with mischievous ways to show up the bully for the idiot he really is. Layer onto that the additional storyline with the real villain and it became very engaging. There was so much stacked against Peter, I definitely rooted for him right from the start.
A minor pet peeve I have with this book is the cinematic style focused on grand mechanisms and unexplained lighting in ruins that have been abandoned for several hundred years. As someone who's spent a lot of time in Mayan ruins, I just roll my eyes at this influence of the "spectacular" from movies like Indiana Jones and other treasure hunter shows. If the how had been explained, I think it might have been less of an issue for me, or if one of the mechanisms had failed. That would have been great.
I was also a little dubious about Kira's posh parents being quite so okay with her hanging out with the son of a farmer, a sailor's orphan and a parentless street urchin. Her parents made far too little fuss about who she spends her time with and considering the pre-industrial setting, it was rather hard to believe there would have been no repercussions to her unsanctioned activities once they were found out. But hey, that was a really minor bit, and didn't detract from the overall experience. It was more just the constant niggling feeling every time her parents showed up that they were so modern in how they showed their disapproval.
On the whole, I can recommend this fun treasure hunt adventure with a splash of magic and some fun puzzles in ancient ruins. It's fast-paced, has some good characters and great dynamics between the friends.
I also enjoyed the class clashes between the upper-class bully who thinks he can get away with anything and the lower class group who just wouldn't stop coming up with mischievous ways to show up the bully for the idiot he really is. Layer onto that the additional storyline with the real villain and it became very engaging. There was so much stacked against Peter, I definitely rooted for him right from the start.
A minor pet peeve I have with this book is the cinematic style focused on grand mechanisms and unexplained lighting in ruins that have been abandoned for several hundred years. As someone who's spent a lot of time in Mayan ruins, I just roll my eyes at this influence of the "spectacular" from movies like Indiana Jones and other treasure hunter shows. If the how had been explained, I think it might have been less of an issue for me, or if one of the mechanisms had failed. That would have been great.
I was also a little dubious about Kira's posh parents being quite so okay with her hanging out with the son of a farmer, a sailor's orphan and a parentless street urchin. Her parents made far too little fuss about who she spends her time with and considering the pre-industrial setting, it was rather hard to believe there would have been no repercussions to her unsanctioned activities once they were found out. But hey, that was a really minor bit, and didn't detract from the overall experience. It was more just the constant niggling feeling every time her parents showed up that they were so modern in how they showed their disapproval.
On the whole, I can recommend this fun treasure hunt adventure with a splash of magic and some fun puzzles in ancient ruins. It's fast-paced, has some good characters and great dynamics between the friends.
May 23, 2024
I love stories that have a cast of characters. Peter,Sephiri, Kira, and Rylan are quite a cast of characters. Peter and Rylan being poor workers, Kira being an upper class girl who chose real friends over fake ones, and Sephiri being a troubled homeless girl with too much pride to allow them to help her.
Now that I've finished the book, maybe the main character was Peter? Because we knew his family and their struggles. They had a farm that they were on the brink of losing. Peter is constantly trying to balance between working his own job and trying to help his parents.
Then they start on a treasure hunt. They have to figure out the clues as they go. The figuring is not easy. Especially with Razor and the Vipers on their tail at every moment. I was not a fan of Razor. I don't enjoy villains that are over the top. He definitely was.
It was so cool reading as they tried to figure out each new clue. I especially loved that going to the library was always their first thought. Is Michael Webb a former library kid/ current library adult? It was also enjoyable that they didn't get it right the first time every time. Again, I guess Peter made the big sacrifice. Why didn't I see that he was the main? It really seemed like a team that all had various strengths but were equal. I loved that about them.
Sephiri was my favorite. She was so quiet and backward. She had been through so much and had quite a secret to keep. The one who had the least but the one who led them.
Obviously there will be more adventures. I wonder how that will change them? Will more advrntures strengthen them? And if you notice, there are two boys and two girls. Does that lead somewhere?
Now that I've finished the book, maybe the main character was Peter? Because we knew his family and their struggles. They had a farm that they were on the brink of losing. Peter is constantly trying to balance between working his own job and trying to help his parents.
Then they start on a treasure hunt. They have to figure out the clues as they go. The figuring is not easy. Especially with Razor and the Vipers on their tail at every moment. I was not a fan of Razor. I don't enjoy villains that are over the top. He definitely was.
It was so cool reading as they tried to figure out each new clue. I especially loved that going to the library was always their first thought. Is Michael Webb a former library kid/ current library adult? It was also enjoyable that they didn't get it right the first time every time. Again, I guess Peter made the big sacrifice. Why didn't I see that he was the main? It really seemed like a team that all had various strengths but were equal. I loved that about them.
Sephiri was my favorite. She was so quiet and backward. She had been through so much and had quite a secret to keep. The one who had the least but the one who led them.
Obviously there will be more adventures. I wonder how that will change them? Will more advrntures strengthen them? And if you notice, there are two boys and two girls. Does that lead somewhere?
September 1, 2023
This felt like an intersection between the Goonies and Harry Potter. I loved the characters so much. Their relationships with each other and their families were so strong and so wholesome. And then, the adventure. It was high stakes for those involved but not quite world-ending, world-dominating...at least, not yet. Maybe that happens in book two.
Peter was an amazing character. He was also such a relatable character. Around the midpoint of the book, when he bemoaned his fate--being stuck working his parents' farm when he knew he was destined for a life of adventure, but only after his parents' debts were taken care of and he knew they would be okay--his longing resonated so strongly with my teenage self. He's a good boy, cares about the things he should, feels deeply, and still makes good choices most of the time. It's nice to see characters like that.
The friends also got a taste of what it would be like to have special powers and the necessary restraint that comes with those powers. I thought that was a great message. Just because you can't do something, that doesn't mean you're should; sometimes it even means you shouldn't. They still made mistakes and had to face consequences, but more frequently, bad things happened because other people meant them harm, not through any fault of theirs.
This was a fantastic story. I eagerly anticipate my library getting book two on audio. And I'm really thankful to the IFA Facebook group for picking this as one of their monthly reads. This is my first time reading Michael Webb, but it won't be my last.
Peter was an amazing character. He was also such a relatable character. Around the midpoint of the book, when he bemoaned his fate--being stuck working his parents' farm when he knew he was destined for a life of adventure, but only after his parents' debts were taken care of and he knew they would be okay--his longing resonated so strongly with my teenage self. He's a good boy, cares about the things he should, feels deeply, and still makes good choices most of the time. It's nice to see characters like that.
The friends also got a taste of what it would be like to have special powers and the necessary restraint that comes with those powers. I thought that was a great message. Just because you can't do something, that doesn't mean you're should; sometimes it even means you shouldn't. They still made mistakes and had to face consequences, but more frequently, bad things happened because other people meant them harm, not through any fault of theirs.
This was a fantastic story. I eagerly anticipate my library getting book two on audio. And I'm really thankful to the IFA Facebook group for picking this as one of their monthly reads. This is my first time reading Michael Webb, but it won't be my last.
September 28, 2023
Peter, Rylan, Sephiri, and Kira are friends and have been through adventures and trouble together. Peter, Rylan, and Sephiri all live in Lowside, work for a living, and feel the struggles of debt. Kira comes from an influential family but finds most of the people in high society shallow and petty. But they all work well together and have found safety and family in each other. While running an errand for the mason he does his apprenticeship with, he stumbles across a mysterious item. When they figure out it gives clues to a treasure that it thought to be from fairytale they decide to pursue it. As they get closer to unraveling the mystery the danger increases, even becoming deadly at times. Is finding this treasure worth the risk?
I have a hard time with YA books at times so it took me a chapter or 2 to find my groove with this book. And once I found it I really enjoyed this. There were a few spots where you can see the teenager in the character and you want to smack them upside the head, especially the boys. I’m curious to see if some of the other characters we meet get a larger role later or how that evolves. You can see the start of a possible romance later but the author did not go down that path in this book which was refreshing to me. This was a fun adventure with danger and rewards.
I have a hard time with YA books at times so it took me a chapter or 2 to find my groove with this book. And once I found it I really enjoyed this. There were a few spots where you can see the teenager in the character and you want to smack them upside the head, especially the boys. I’m curious to see if some of the other characters we meet get a larger role later or how that evolves. You can see the start of a possible romance later but the author did not go down that path in this book which was refreshing to me. This was a fun adventure with danger and rewards.
April 25, 2023
4.5*
I really enjoyed this book.
Likable characters, interesting story and a sense of adventure that keeps you reading.
I loved the writing and the pacing of the book. The plot was interesting and kept me going. I felt as I was with them on their quest.
For me personally it lacked a bit of a moral grayness in the main characters. They were a bit too nice and the fact that they steal and break in etc was swiped over a bit too easy. I would have liked a bit more inner dilemma or too confront them more with what they are doing and the danger they put everyone in.
And I would have liked if there was another danger as well. After the second time they got outsmarted by the vipers it felt a bit dull and foreseeable. I kind of was waiting on a big twist that would really hurt, like one of the friends betraying the others. Like this really big yaw dropping moment.
But I am complaining on a very high level, as I loved reading it. Those point just don’t make me give 5*
And the feeling of something bad is going to happen to them did not get away in the end.
The best character is without a doubt Matthias. How supportive and lovely can a father be? Such a great character!
I really enjoyed this book.
Likable characters, interesting story and a sense of adventure that keeps you reading.
I loved the writing and the pacing of the book. The plot was interesting and kept me going. I felt as I was with them on their quest.
For me personally it lacked a bit of a moral grayness in the main characters. They were a bit too nice and the fact that they steal and break in etc was swiped over a bit too easy. I would have liked a bit more inner dilemma or too confront them more with what they are doing and the danger they put everyone in.
And I would have liked if there was another danger as well. After the second time they got outsmarted by the vipers it felt a bit dull and foreseeable. I kind of was waiting on a big twist that would really hurt, like one of the friends betraying the others. Like this really big yaw dropping moment.
But I am complaining on a very high level, as I loved reading it. Those point just don’t make me give 5*
And the feeling of something bad is going to happen to them did not get away in the end.
The best character is without a doubt Matthias. How supportive and lovely can a father be? Such a great character!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2023
Peter wants to be a soldier more than anything, but his mother is ill and they’re going to lose their farm. He and his friends are trying to survive their problems, but they can’t catch a break until they stumble on the mystery of the lost amulet which confers power to the finder. Maybe if they could find that, they could get ahead or at least stop the evil Razor and the Viper gang from getting the amulet and even more power.
This is a fun, fast paced ya adventure. I found it a bit hard to get into it at the beginning (too many troubles and bullying put me off, I think) but once the magic was uncovered and the story got going I enjoyed it. The final third flew by!
I liked the relationship among the friends and the magic. My favorite parts were the puzzle solving aspects and how the four friends worked together to figure out how to get to the amulet.
February 12, 2023
This magnificent book plagued me with SEVERE ARC Hold-the-Excitement-In Syndrome! I read this book super quick, probably one of the fastest ever, and the book didn't release for another month or so.... And so I had the frustration of wanting to share my excitement for this truly amazing awesomeness but I couldn't...I had to wait...but I didn't want to wait. All I wanted to do was shout it out on the rooftops that hot damn that was a super fun, brilliant adventure!
This is the first book I've ever read by Michael Webb and OMG, it was truly, truly amazing!!
An incredible YA treasure hunting adventure that grips you from that first intense, heart-pounding chapter! It takes you on a roller coaster ride of excitement, through dangerous quests, fantastic puzzles, all while fighting to reach an ancient fortress before a vicious gang.
This was such a brilliantly crafted adventure! I can't wait for the next!
Highly, highly recommend!
This is the first book I've ever read by Michael Webb and OMG, it was truly, truly amazing!!
An incredible YA treasure hunting adventure that grips you from that first intense, heart-pounding chapter! It takes you on a roller coaster ride of excitement, through dangerous quests, fantastic puzzles, all while fighting to reach an ancient fortress before a vicious gang.
This was such a brilliantly crafted adventure! I can't wait for the next!
Highly, highly recommend!
February 7, 2023
What a great kickoff to Michael Webb's second trilogy! The Shadow Knights books were a tough act to follow and this one launches you in an exciting new direction. This book is in the same world as the Shadow Knights, but features a totally new cast of characters that I loved getting to know. Heart-pounding heists, swashbuckling adventure, and interest-grabbing twists and turns that will not let you put this book down. This has a really good balance of strong and complex male and female characters. If you're looking for some reference points, think Ranger's Apprentice meets National Treasure meets Enola Holmes. It's a fun ride!
June 24, 2024
It was a clean, simple, story.
I didn't love it because it felt that every bit of information that showed up was right in time to keep the plot moving, making it a little too predictable. I like a little mystery sometimes. Also It was hard to visualize the settings at times... And the morals of the main characters were kind of wishy washy, the main characters drive being one thing in the beginning and then completely changing for no reason throughout the second half of it. It was a bit confusing.
Either way, if you need a clean story to drone out a few hours of your life, it's not a bad one to choose.
I didn't love it because it felt that every bit of information that showed up was right in time to keep the plot moving, making it a little too predictable. I like a little mystery sometimes. Also It was hard to visualize the settings at times... And the morals of the main characters were kind of wishy washy, the main characters drive being one thing in the beginning and then completely changing for no reason throughout the second half of it. It was a bit confusing.
Either way, if you need a clean story to drone out a few hours of your life, it's not a bad one to choose.
unfinished
October 13, 2024Content Rating: 🟠 (estimated)
Language: none (so far)
Violence: some. Graphic deaths at beginning.
Sex/Nudity: some innuendos.
My Review
I listened to about 40% of the audiobook, then kind of lost interest. Seems pretty clean, though. I would recommend to boys who want an adventure treasure hunting story.
Read my full review here: Homerun Reads (Notion)
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Language: none (so far)
Violence: some. Graphic deaths at beginning.
Sex/Nudity: some innuendos.
My Review
I listened to about 40% of the audiobook, then kind of lost interest. Seems pretty clean, though. I would recommend to boys who want an adventure treasure hunting story.
Read my full review here: Homerun Reads (Notion)
Follow me to easily see my content reviews (if available) when you look up books here on Goodreads.
August 17, 2025
An adorable tale of a small group of friends who need to band together to find an amulet that gives power to one who is worthy. This amulet would solve all their problems, including our main characters family farm. However, as in all quests...there are bad men hunting the amulet too and they are willing to do anything to find it first.
I love the found family vibes here, the group of friends are all from different backgrounds and they have protected each other. They also might have secrets from each other than may effect them all.
There were some really good heist scenes and many tender moments too. The characters are the real win when reading this story. So cute!
I love the found family vibes here, the group of friends are all from different backgrounds and they have protected each other. They also might have secrets from each other than may effect them all.
There were some really good heist scenes and many tender moments too. The characters are the real win when reading this story. So cute!
February 25, 2023
A brilliant start to a new series. From page one, I knew this was going to be an epic and captivating journey into a new world. I have to say, I would LOVE to see and experience this world first hand, although reading it felt like I was visiting it virtually the descriptions were so vivid. The characters have great depth, and are completely unforgettable, whether you love them or hate them. Webb does an excellent job of weaving the story around you, making it difficult to stop reading once you start. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys epic fantasy adventures!
February 26, 2023
Have read previous series by this author and was a little worried this new series would be a bit samey. I needent have worried, whilst the legend and storyline continues the author treats us to a new piece of the tale from another time and place. The characters are as well developed as ever and the scenes are told so well you can really picture them in your head. Really looking forward to the next installment. If you havent read anything from this author yet I would highly recommend you do.
August 14, 2023
Young teen adventure with friends, family, and a quest for The Amulet of Power.
Peter's family is about to lose the farm so in desperation he steals two bags from a desk drawer in a bank. One bag has some coins and the other bag has a pyramid-shaped article. The pyramid has a riddle on the bottom of it. As they start solving the clues of this cryptic riddle they discover it may lead to The Amulet of Power. Just one problem, they aren't the only ones looking for it. A fun adventure for young adults
Peter's family is about to lose the farm so in desperation he steals two bags from a desk drawer in a bank. One bag has some coins and the other bag has a pyramid-shaped article. The pyramid has a riddle on the bottom of it. As they start solving the clues of this cryptic riddle they discover it may lead to The Amulet of Power. Just one problem, they aren't the only ones looking for it. A fun adventure for young adults
November 9, 2023
I really enjoyed my read of this book. Michael bought the world of Palenting along with the featured characters alive and made the story move right along.
It is for sure a younger read, maybe even middle grade and really does remind me of Percy Jackson and Indiana Jones. I think that the puzzles that the characters have to solve, like Indiana, are my favorite part of this grand adventure.
I am already starting on book two because I just have to know what comes next.
I want to thank Michael for the ARC and the chance to review. I will for sure be checking out his other books!
It is for sure a younger read, maybe even middle grade and really does remind me of Percy Jackson and Indiana Jones. I think that the puzzles that the characters have to solve, like Indiana, are my favorite part of this grand adventure.
I am already starting on book two because I just have to know what comes next.
I want to thank Michael for the ARC and the chance to review. I will for sure be checking out his other books!
February 25, 2023
A great new adventure by Michael Webb. All about what you do in the name of friendship, family, desperation, and adventure. You feel the sacrifices and the adventure in every chapter of this tale. Loved the interaction between the characters. The descriptions fill your senses and vividly and powerfully pull you into the land of Palentine; and then they make you not want to leave . . . .
Great story!
Great story!
March 3, 2023
This is a YA adventure-fantasy story, following Peter, Kira, Rylan, and Sephiri search for the amulet 350 years after its last sighting. This is like a Percy Jackson and Lord of the Rings crossover. The world-building is immersive and descriptive, and readers gain great insight into each character as their perspectives switch.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to StoryOrigin and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to StoryOrigin and author.
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