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Lapidius
Novum Albion had been the melting pot of the world, where cultures, intellect, ideas, and even freedom defined the young nation. Yet, many no longer had the hope that once defined Novum Albion. Sadly, inspiration and confidence drained from the land. Hope became nothing more than feeble happiness, and happiness turned to selfish desires. Selfish desires turned to greed, and greed turned into numbness to life. Many citizens of Novum Albion were trapped in their own minds, yet they were still filled with pride, though they accomplished nothing. As the young of the land grew ignorant of their identity and their past, the very fiber of the home started to unwind, and uncertainty and ignorance in every aspect of life began to grow. Thus Lapidius, a martial institute for children, found a place among the offspring of the compromised nation. And though it would be hard for some to think a school could be home for its students, it was just that for many. This is that story.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 19, 2022
10 people are currently reading
1853 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 30, 2025
Unexpectedly Fantastic
Lapidius is a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy type read. A well written and descriptive story of a group of friends who are sent to the Lapidius School. They are well looked after, and they learn military combat skills as well as special skills as they train to fight an ever impending war. Everything they knew before means nothing, and their lives are changed forever once they learn the truth about the world of monsters they live in.
The bond between these teenage boys is as real as any ive seen, i thoroughly enjoyed watching them grow up
The end was thrilling and left me wanting more. This is a great start to an interesting fantasy series and I look forward to reading more.
Lapidius is a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy type read. A well written and descriptive story of a group of friends who are sent to the Lapidius School. They are well looked after, and they learn military combat skills as well as special skills as they train to fight an ever impending war. Everything they knew before means nothing, and their lives are changed forever once they learn the truth about the world of monsters they live in.
The bond between these teenage boys is as real as any ive seen, i thoroughly enjoyed watching them grow up
The end was thrilling and left me wanting more. This is a great start to an interesting fantasy series and I look forward to reading more.
April 6, 2023
I loved it! The relationships between the characters in Lapidius were touching, and *no spoilers*, but I almost cried at one scene! I loved the concept of a military-style school in a fantasy world, and this book did not disappoint. I highly recommend it!
September 29, 2024
Lapidius is the debut novel by Matthew Runals, and the first in A Nation Found series. It tells the story of young cadets sent to Lapidius, a military school that teaches the youth military discipline & tactics to face the war facing them.
It is a young adult dystopian novel with elements of fantasy. We follow a group of friends as they navigate their way through the classes, learning about friendship, cooperation, bravery, magic, intrigue, and hope.
There is great character and world-building, which starts the novel off slow but builds into a faster pace. There is a satisfactory conclusion with room for later novels.
It is a young adult dystopian novel with elements of fantasy. We follow a group of friends as they navigate their way through the classes, learning about friendship, cooperation, bravery, magic, intrigue, and hope.
There is great character and world-building, which starts the novel off slow but builds into a faster pace. There is a satisfactory conclusion with room for later novels.
September 10, 2024
4 Stars
“Story lovers and justice seekers, I present a tale of Lapidius, a school nestled in the valleys and forests of the land of Novum Albion. Once filled with mystery, adventure, and knowledge, Novum Albion was now a sad place of former greatness and forgotten dreams that no longer held the position of power it once had in the world. As its people settled for what they were told they could accomplish, hope and dreams became vacant in Novum Albion.
At one time, the country had been the world's melting pot, where cultures, intellect, ideas, and even freedom defined the young nation. Yet, many no longer had the hope that once defined Novum Albion. Sadly, inspiration and confidence drained from the land. Hope became nothing more than feeble happiness, and happiness turned to selfish desires. Selfish desires turned into greed, and greed turned into numbness to life. Many citizens of Novum Albion were trapped in their own minds, yet they were still filled with pride, though they accomplished nothing.
Worth of life was held relative, and the meaning of words like honor, morals, and ethics were seldom taught. Even truth was held passively. As the young of the land grew ignorant of their identity and past, the very fiber of the home started to unwind, and uncertainty and ignorance in every aspect of life began to grow.
Lapidius was still a mysterious place, considering it was a military school for children. It was not a school built to train children for war but designed to teach military discipline. Children of all ages would leave their siblings and parents behind and find mysteries upon mysteries at Lapidius, which they would eventually call home.
Yes, though it would be hard for some to think a school could be home for its students, it was just that for many. And the most challenging and formative experience Lapidius had to offer was The Game. The Game was what made Lapidius unique…”
Lapidius is the first book in A Nation Found series by Matt Runals. This is a fabulous YA dystopian adventure story with a coming of age/journey of discovery element, mystery, action, politics, agendas, challenges, high stakes, family/friendship, finding purpose, magic, monsters, courage/bravery, survival, war/battles, intrigue, fantasy, emotion, humour, morality/honour, betrayal, and hope.
I set off on the adventure and found myself engrossed right from the get-go- joining Joey, Kyle, Brian, and Lucas through all the highs and lows of Lapidius- a military school which will bring challenges and experiences that none of them could have predicted.
The characters were really well-developed individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. They were easy to like and invest in. I loved watching them develop and grow over the course of the story.
The story is quite detailed and descriptive, which made it easy to ‘visualise’ the scenes, the world, and all the developments as they unfolded.
This gave me all the Divergent/Hunger Games/ The Maze Runner/ Harry Potter-esque vibes- but with its own unique identity.
The story finishes leaving room for more to come – so I look forward to seeing where we go from here.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Matt Runals!
“Story lovers and justice seekers, I present a tale of Lapidius, a school nestled in the valleys and forests of the land of Novum Albion. Once filled with mystery, adventure, and knowledge, Novum Albion was now a sad place of former greatness and forgotten dreams that no longer held the position of power it once had in the world. As its people settled for what they were told they could accomplish, hope and dreams became vacant in Novum Albion.
At one time, the country had been the world's melting pot, where cultures, intellect, ideas, and even freedom defined the young nation. Yet, many no longer had the hope that once defined Novum Albion. Sadly, inspiration and confidence drained from the land. Hope became nothing more than feeble happiness, and happiness turned to selfish desires. Selfish desires turned into greed, and greed turned into numbness to life. Many citizens of Novum Albion were trapped in their own minds, yet they were still filled with pride, though they accomplished nothing.
Worth of life was held relative, and the meaning of words like honor, morals, and ethics were seldom taught. Even truth was held passively. As the young of the land grew ignorant of their identity and past, the very fiber of the home started to unwind, and uncertainty and ignorance in every aspect of life began to grow.
Lapidius was still a mysterious place, considering it was a military school for children. It was not a school built to train children for war but designed to teach military discipline. Children of all ages would leave their siblings and parents behind and find mysteries upon mysteries at Lapidius, which they would eventually call home.
Yes, though it would be hard for some to think a school could be home for its students, it was just that for many. And the most challenging and formative experience Lapidius had to offer was The Game. The Game was what made Lapidius unique…”
Lapidius is the first book in A Nation Found series by Matt Runals. This is a fabulous YA dystopian adventure story with a coming of age/journey of discovery element, mystery, action, politics, agendas, challenges, high stakes, family/friendship, finding purpose, magic, monsters, courage/bravery, survival, war/battles, intrigue, fantasy, emotion, humour, morality/honour, betrayal, and hope.
I set off on the adventure and found myself engrossed right from the get-go- joining Joey, Kyle, Brian, and Lucas through all the highs and lows of Lapidius- a military school which will bring challenges and experiences that none of them could have predicted.
The characters were really well-developed individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. They were easy to like and invest in. I loved watching them develop and grow over the course of the story.
The story is quite detailed and descriptive, which made it easy to ‘visualise’ the scenes, the world, and all the developments as they unfolded.
This gave me all the Divergent/Hunger Games/ The Maze Runner/ Harry Potter-esque vibes- but with its own unique identity.
The story finishes leaving room for more to come – so I look forward to seeing where we go from here.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Matt Runals!
September 27, 2024
Matthew Runals’ *Lapidus* is an exciting and gripping tale of survival, magic, and unexpected heroism, centered on 13-year-old Joey as he’s thrust into a world far beyond his comprehension. Set against the backdrop of an impending war, Joey’s story begins with desperation—his mother, struggling to feed him, sends him to Lapidius, a place where he won’t starve. But Lapidius turns out to be much more than a refuge. It’s a prestigious military institute, training children for battle in a war filled with magical and monstrous threats.
Runals does an exceptional job at building a vivid and mysterious world. Lapidius itself is an institution full of intrigue, and the atmosphere of the school immediately gives off a sense of foreboding. Joey quickly learns that the training is no ordinary boot camp. His journey from being a malnourished boy to a student training for something far more dangerous highlights the intense physical and mental transformation the children undergo. What makes Lapidius truly fascinating, however, is the supernatural layer beneath the military drills—this isn’t just a war between humans, but a larger conflict involving magical forces, malevolent creatures, and perhaps even darker conspiracies.
The novel deftly balances elements of action and suspense with themes of loyalty, bravery, and self-discovery. Joey is a relatable and compelling protagonist. His vulnerability, combined with a deep well of inner strength, makes his arc from struggling to survive to becoming a young soldier particularly powerful. His friendships with other students, as they all come to terms with the reality of their situation, add emotional depth to the story.
Runals’ writing is sharp, fast-paced, and brimming with tension. As the children train for war, the narrative steadily reveals the larger stakes involved in their fight, keeping readers hooked. At the same time, the world-building is immersive, with hints of ancient magic and unseen malevolence that suggest there’s much more to the battle Joey is preparing for than meets the eye.
What makes *Lapidus* stand out is its ability to blend a coming-of-age narrative with elements of fantasy and military action. It’s not just a story about young recruits learning how to fight but a reflection on what it means to face fear, to find purpose, and to understand the cost of war in a world that seems to have far more at stake than Joey ever imagined.
Overall, *Lapidus* is a thrilling adventure filled with suspense, mystery, and heart. Readers who enjoy tales of magical warfare, military schools, and underdog heroes will find themselves swept up in this engaging and imaginative story. Matthew Runals has crafted a novel that leaves you eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for Joey and his fellow students at Lapidius.
Runals does an exceptional job at building a vivid and mysterious world. Lapidius itself is an institution full of intrigue, and the atmosphere of the school immediately gives off a sense of foreboding. Joey quickly learns that the training is no ordinary boot camp. His journey from being a malnourished boy to a student training for something far more dangerous highlights the intense physical and mental transformation the children undergo. What makes Lapidius truly fascinating, however, is the supernatural layer beneath the military drills—this isn’t just a war between humans, but a larger conflict involving magical forces, malevolent creatures, and perhaps even darker conspiracies.
The novel deftly balances elements of action and suspense with themes of loyalty, bravery, and self-discovery. Joey is a relatable and compelling protagonist. His vulnerability, combined with a deep well of inner strength, makes his arc from struggling to survive to becoming a young soldier particularly powerful. His friendships with other students, as they all come to terms with the reality of their situation, add emotional depth to the story.
Runals’ writing is sharp, fast-paced, and brimming with tension. As the children train for war, the narrative steadily reveals the larger stakes involved in their fight, keeping readers hooked. At the same time, the world-building is immersive, with hints of ancient magic and unseen malevolence that suggest there’s much more to the battle Joey is preparing for than meets the eye.
What makes *Lapidus* stand out is its ability to blend a coming-of-age narrative with elements of fantasy and military action. It’s not just a story about young recruits learning how to fight but a reflection on what it means to face fear, to find purpose, and to understand the cost of war in a world that seems to have far more at stake than Joey ever imagined.
Overall, *Lapidus* is a thrilling adventure filled with suspense, mystery, and heart. Readers who enjoy tales of magical warfare, military schools, and underdog heroes will find themselves swept up in this engaging and imaginative story. Matthew Runals has crafted a novel that leaves you eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for Joey and his fellow students at Lapidius.
October 15, 2025
Lapidius has lots of 5-star ratings. This isn’t one of them.
With a lead-in like that, you might think I’m going to rip on this work. I’m not. But I’m going to be honest about my read of it. Let’s start with the good.
The premise has excellent grounding, allowing for levels of exposition. The story follows the experiences of students from a military academy as they find their way in a new environment and discover that the school is built around the paranormal, which is a strong foundation. It screams YA fantasy. It harkens of the Hunger Games or something Potter-esque. There is also greater political intrigue beyond just the school framing in the narrative, which adds color to the overall conflict. Then there’s the fact that at 400 pages, the e-book is a bargain when you consider it as a read over time.
I applaud the writer for taking on such a wide-spanning, in-depth story as a first work. The world-building alone is enormous and shows a depth of thought. It’s a strong base for more to come.
So, onto the other side of the review.
For context, my wife asked me why I hadn’t finished it yet – “You tear through books.” I do. But I found Lapidius to be written in such a dense, formal style, with grammatical issues and unclear shifts in place and point of view, that I often had to backtrack and question where I was and who was speaking. Those instances took me out of the writer’s world and the flow of the story.
Usually, as a self-published first work, I’d think it needed an editor, but it appears there was an outside editor.
Overall, a very challenging read for me. I was tempted at times just to put it away. For those who get hung up on minor formatting issues (first paragraph line spacing issues), grammatical issues, and issues in transition from people or places, you may find this one a frustrating read. If you can see past those things and into the story itself, this may well be one savory cup of tea for you.
I’m pleased I pushed through to the end.
The author provided a satisfying conclusion, and the underlying themes of family, loyalty, and self-discovery rang true throughout. It wasn’t an easy read for me. Hopefully, the second in the series has better editing for tickier readers like myself.
Like I said at the onset of this review. There are a large number of 4 and 5-star reviews. This is only one reader’s honest experience.
With a lead-in like that, you might think I’m going to rip on this work. I’m not. But I’m going to be honest about my read of it. Let’s start with the good.
The premise has excellent grounding, allowing for levels of exposition. The story follows the experiences of students from a military academy as they find their way in a new environment and discover that the school is built around the paranormal, which is a strong foundation. It screams YA fantasy. It harkens of the Hunger Games or something Potter-esque. There is also greater political intrigue beyond just the school framing in the narrative, which adds color to the overall conflict. Then there’s the fact that at 400 pages, the e-book is a bargain when you consider it as a read over time.
I applaud the writer for taking on such a wide-spanning, in-depth story as a first work. The world-building alone is enormous and shows a depth of thought. It’s a strong base for more to come.
So, onto the other side of the review.
For context, my wife asked me why I hadn’t finished it yet – “You tear through books.” I do. But I found Lapidius to be written in such a dense, formal style, with grammatical issues and unclear shifts in place and point of view, that I often had to backtrack and question where I was and who was speaking. Those instances took me out of the writer’s world and the flow of the story.
Usually, as a self-published first work, I’d think it needed an editor, but it appears there was an outside editor.
Overall, a very challenging read for me. I was tempted at times just to put it away. For those who get hung up on minor formatting issues (first paragraph line spacing issues), grammatical issues, and issues in transition from people or places, you may find this one a frustrating read. If you can see past those things and into the story itself, this may well be one savory cup of tea for you.
I’m pleased I pushed through to the end.
The author provided a satisfying conclusion, and the underlying themes of family, loyalty, and self-discovery rang true throughout. It wasn’t an easy read for me. Hopefully, the second in the series has better editing for tickier readers like myself.
Like I said at the onset of this review. There are a large number of 4 and 5-star reviews. This is only one reader’s honest experience.
September 27, 2024
Joey is a young boy of thirteen who lives at home with his mother and sisters, it isn't an easy life, but it is the one he has been given, but fortunately he has good friends, that is until one day he is sent off by his mother for a better life at Lapidius. Lapidius is a school, but other than that, Joey has no idea of what to expect when he gets there, but the fact that his friends are going with him helps the transition.
After a few days in the wagon travelling to Lapidius, Joey is anxious to get out and see where he is and what his future will look like and at first glance, all he can see is the majesty of the building and the beautiful smells coming from a nearby group of buildings, however, he soon realises that is this is no ordinary school, it is a military one as he sees the officers and cadets who are lining the pathway to the school who are intimidating to the highest degree, not to mention the barracks where he will be staying and the introductory processing he experiences.
This is where anything commonplace disappears and Joey soon discovers that nothing is what it seems and what can only describe as being magic is being used and this terrifies him, especially when horns blare out in the middle of their first night and a cry of "Monsters" goes up in the halls. After everything has settled down and sleep claims him, Joey is awoken early for inspection and his first day of drills, exercise, lessons and chores and his routine for the next few weeks until he discovers which house he will be placed into.
He quickly realises that what he has been taught in school before was seriously lacking and his new lessons are revealing information which he never dreamed could be possible and when he realises that it is the truth, his life changes forever, but will he be able to survive this new world and the monsters within it, or will he fall at the first hurdle? This is a great beginning to an adventure series full of military training and dangerous escapades which will keep you wanting to know what happens next.
After a few days in the wagon travelling to Lapidius, Joey is anxious to get out and see where he is and what his future will look like and at first glance, all he can see is the majesty of the building and the beautiful smells coming from a nearby group of buildings, however, he soon realises that is this is no ordinary school, it is a military one as he sees the officers and cadets who are lining the pathway to the school who are intimidating to the highest degree, not to mention the barracks where he will be staying and the introductory processing he experiences.
This is where anything commonplace disappears and Joey soon discovers that nothing is what it seems and what can only describe as being magic is being used and this terrifies him, especially when horns blare out in the middle of their first night and a cry of "Monsters" goes up in the halls. After everything has settled down and sleep claims him, Joey is awoken early for inspection and his first day of drills, exercise, lessons and chores and his routine for the next few weeks until he discovers which house he will be placed into.
He quickly realises that what he has been taught in school before was seriously lacking and his new lessons are revealing information which he never dreamed could be possible and when he realises that it is the truth, his life changes forever, but will he be able to survive this new world and the monsters within it, or will he fall at the first hurdle? This is a great beginning to an adventure series full of military training and dangerous escapades which will keep you wanting to know what happens next.
April 23, 2025
Lapidius is a military school in the fictional country of Novum Albion. The time period during which this tale takes place is not defined. But its epoch seems medieval because the weapons and way of life portrayed in the book are rudimentary.
A group of students arrive at the school, begin training, and bond. While there’s a lack of food across the land, the students eat well. There’s a foreboding feeling readers might experience as they learn about the students’ training. The drills may seem inconsequential, but then again, they’re important. If the students train well, they might have a better chance of survival.
Though they’re young teenagers, and they study academic subjects, I loosely compare their military preparation to US Army training, but not with modern, lethal weapons. Rather, the student training is primarily physical and mental, and the trainees learn to act as a team. Later, they learn to use bows, swords, and other such weapons.
The walls of the school protect the students from their outside world, which is in crisis. The story begins at a leisurely pace, and later in the saga, monsters attack the school. Students fight them. Then an actual war ensues, and students must fight grown men.
I compare the experience of the students to real young adult soldiers in training during the Vietnam War. Caught up in the Novum Albion conflict, the Lapidius students often aren’t sure why they’re at the school and why they must fight.
In this book, the true horror of death during war is hinted at, but not dealt with in a frank way. The fictional events in this novel remind me of the trials and tribulations in today’s real world. I’m sure every reader will visualize this story based on their personal experiences and how they view current events.
There are some typos in the book, and it is slow in places, but overall it is very much worth the read, if only to ponder what has happened and what will happen across our real planet.
A group of students arrive at the school, begin training, and bond. While there’s a lack of food across the land, the students eat well. There’s a foreboding feeling readers might experience as they learn about the students’ training. The drills may seem inconsequential, but then again, they’re important. If the students train well, they might have a better chance of survival.
Though they’re young teenagers, and they study academic subjects, I loosely compare their military preparation to US Army training, but not with modern, lethal weapons. Rather, the student training is primarily physical and mental, and the trainees learn to act as a team. Later, they learn to use bows, swords, and other such weapons.
The walls of the school protect the students from their outside world, which is in crisis. The story begins at a leisurely pace, and later in the saga, monsters attack the school. Students fight them. Then an actual war ensues, and students must fight grown men.
I compare the experience of the students to real young adult soldiers in training during the Vietnam War. Caught up in the Novum Albion conflict, the Lapidius students often aren’t sure why they’re at the school and why they must fight.
In this book, the true horror of death during war is hinted at, but not dealt with in a frank way. The fictional events in this novel remind me of the trials and tribulations in today’s real world. I’m sure every reader will visualize this story based on their personal experiences and how they view current events.
There are some typos in the book, and it is slow in places, but overall it is very much worth the read, if only to ponder what has happened and what will happen across our real planet.
September 26, 2024
This is the first book in A Nation Found Series and the first book I have read by this author. This is a YA adult fantasy adventure which has so much happening that it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I wasn't too sure what to expect going into this book however I was not disappointed. The author opens us up to a world where it seems all hope is lost until the youth are given something to fight for. The characters is the book are well written and I loved how the boys had banter between themselves just as you know that boys do in real life. Every aspect of this book was well thoughtout out and the characters and surroundings were brought to life.
Joey and his friends and their family's are struggling to survive as times are hard and their town is losing all hope.
To save their son's, Joey and his friends are sent to Lapidius. Lapidius is a school where the boys will be educated and feed well.
However things aren't all that they seem and when they arrive the boys realise the Lapidius is more of a training camp that a school and they are being trained to fight a war that gets closer by the day.
Add to this all the mystery that surrounds Lapidius, the monsters and the adventures that Joey and his friends find themselves on and this becomes one book that you will not be able to put down.
I wasn't too sure what to expect going into this book however I was not disappointed. The author opens us up to a world where it seems all hope is lost until the youth are given something to fight for. The characters is the book are well written and I loved how the boys had banter between themselves just as you know that boys do in real life. Every aspect of this book was well thoughtout out and the characters and surroundings were brought to life.
Joey and his friends and their family's are struggling to survive as times are hard and their town is losing all hope.
To save their son's, Joey and his friends are sent to Lapidius. Lapidius is a school where the boys will be educated and feed well.
However things aren't all that they seem and when they arrive the boys realise the Lapidius is more of a training camp that a school and they are being trained to fight a war that gets closer by the day.
Add to this all the mystery that surrounds Lapidius, the monsters and the adventures that Joey and his friends find themselves on and this becomes one book that you will not be able to put down.
August 3, 2024
The land of Novum Albion is in trouble. Famine and inflation are on the rise, as well as selfishness and greed. In hopes of giving their kids a better future, some parents send their kids to Lapidius, a military academy. Joey, Kyle, Brian, and Lucas, four friends, are on their way to the school, scared of what is to come. Join them in this thrilling tale of adventure, friendship, magic, and morals as they navigate school and growing up.
To say that I loved this book is an understatement. I LOOOVED it!
I giggled at page 146. I gasped at page 166. I cried at page 253. I smirked at page 258. I felt hope at page 365
'Lapidius' is a wonderful book for anyone who loves wholesome adventure tales! The writing in this book is absolutely gorgeous! I really enjoyed the detailed descriptions of the settings and characters! I was flipping page after page to see what would happen next!
I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Matt Runals for signing my copy of the book and writing a very nice note with it! I hope you love this book as much as I do!
Follow @bronteandwilder on Instagram for fun book recommendations!
To say that I loved this book is an understatement. I LOOOVED it!
I giggled at page 146. I gasped at page 166. I cried at page 253. I smirked at page 258. I felt hope at page 365
'Lapidius' is a wonderful book for anyone who loves wholesome adventure tales! The writing in this book is absolutely gorgeous! I really enjoyed the detailed descriptions of the settings and characters! I was flipping page after page to see what would happen next!
I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Matt Runals for signing my copy of the book and writing a very nice note with it! I hope you love this book as much as I do!
Follow @bronteandwilder on Instagram for fun book recommendations!
September 13, 2024
It’s easy to become caught up in this YA tale as Runals paints a vividly rich narrative of a life at military school called Lapidius and those of the students. His passion shines through his words. At times I felt the story had a few repetitions and was sometimes a bit wordy, but I enjoyed this tale non the less. This intriguing tale has a bit of everything from a dystopian world with fantasy, sci fi to a touch of horror with a fast-moving plot.
Lapidius takes readers on an epic journey through a magical world filled with unique cultures, creatures and characters. A world where survival is the name of the game where battles, greed, danger, monsters and adventure become one in the fight.
I watched with keen interest as the children of the future learned, developed and & grew in strength, bravery and came together with conviction, a far cry from their humble beginnings. Compelling characters Kyle, Joey, Brian, and Lucas learn to fight for what is theirs and the bond that surrounds them.
I enjoyed this Young Adult book. I’m 62 and a woman and it kept me entertained and reading to the end. It’s a great tale for those who enjoy battles and adventure.
Lapidius takes readers on an epic journey through a magical world filled with unique cultures, creatures and characters. A world where survival is the name of the game where battles, greed, danger, monsters and adventure become one in the fight.
I watched with keen interest as the children of the future learned, developed and & grew in strength, bravery and came together with conviction, a far cry from their humble beginnings. Compelling characters Kyle, Joey, Brian, and Lucas learn to fight for what is theirs and the bond that surrounds them.
I enjoyed this Young Adult book. I’m 62 and a woman and it kept me entertained and reading to the end. It’s a great tale for those who enjoy battles and adventure.
September 25, 2024
Lapidius (A Nation Found Book 1) is a YA Dystopian Fiction full of mystical creatures and monsters all around. While this is intended as a YA, there is some violence and heavier content that comes with a military/war setting, and some parents may not be comfortable with this. The story is a coming of age, incorporating family and friendship bonds, building trust, and young teens finding themselves in a harsh world. When the war comes too close to home, Joey's mother sends him away to a military school, Lapidius, to keep him safe and to ensure he has food and shelter. Lapidius is not just your every day run of the mill school though, it is a school to hone and perfect skills in a magical world. The kids must learn to trust each other, and themselves, in order to survive. This is a bit on par with Hunger Games or Maze Runner, but also unique and completely different. The setting and characters are believable and easy to follow, with plenty of action. I liked that the ending left things open for more to follow and things can go in so many different directions, so I am interested to see what the next book brings.
December 31, 2024
Well-written, thought-out and constructed storyline with well-developed characters. Not usually my go-to type of read, but kept me interested nonetheless. In this day and age with limited time, I would've liked it to have been shorter and more around 200 or so pages - broken into two books, possibly. It was really a struggle to get it done which made it feel more chore than pleasure reading. The book ended rather abruptly. I feel it should've had a build-up to a conclusion or left the reader hanging with the thought that something else was going to happen in another book maybe. Sometimes authors leave an ending to the reader's imagination (though this is something I personally don't care for) but the author words it in such a way to do so.
Lapidius is a military school which truly tests the limits of its students by helping them to develop special skills for combat. But, what our main character Joey doesn't understand at first is that there is a more sinister side to Lapidius filled with monsters and magic.
As an aside, this author wishes to thank the book's author for his service to our country!
Lapidius is a military school which truly tests the limits of its students by helping them to develop special skills for combat. But, what our main character Joey doesn't understand at first is that there is a more sinister side to Lapidius filled with monsters and magic.
As an aside, this author wishes to thank the book's author for his service to our country!
September 26, 2024
Lapidius is the first book in the A Nation Found series. It’s a children’s series with a magic boarding school and a big tournament-type thing that will appeal to fans of similar series. The dystopian setting is thought-provoking and creates situations where the children are in danger.
There’s a fun group of characters at the centre of this story. As they learn to cope with the rigorous military training and intense social dynamics at Lapidius their strengths, weaknesses and priorities are highlighted. I like that there are a lot of times we see the kids helping each other out!
I would recommend this more for teen/YA readers. Children who are confident readers and are comfortable reading more violent scenes would also enjoy it, and I think it could be a fun book to read together as there is plenty to discuss around the ethics and decisions of different characters.
This book gets four stars from me. I enjoyed the excitement and adventure, and there’s plenty of worldbuilding that has gone into it. I look forward to reading more of the series!
There’s a fun group of characters at the centre of this story. As they learn to cope with the rigorous military training and intense social dynamics at Lapidius their strengths, weaknesses and priorities are highlighted. I like that there are a lot of times we see the kids helping each other out!
I would recommend this more for teen/YA readers. Children who are confident readers and are comfortable reading more violent scenes would also enjoy it, and I think it could be a fun book to read together as there is plenty to discuss around the ethics and decisions of different characters.
This book gets four stars from me. I enjoyed the excitement and adventure, and there’s plenty of worldbuilding that has gone into it. I look forward to reading more of the series!
September 23, 2024
A Gripping Tale of Hope and Redemption
Matthew Runals’ Lapidius is an extraordinary tale that weaves together complex themes of despair, redemption, and the power of unity. Set against the backdrop of Novum Albion, a nation once rich in culture and ideals, the story explores the lives of those abandoned by society, where greed and ignorance have taken root.
The Lapidius institute becomes a beacon of hope for children lost in a compromised nation. Through vivid storytelling, Runals paints a world where strangers forge bonds stronger than blood, where monsters symbolize the inner and outer battles we all face, and where even the most broken can find purpose. The characters’ journeys—from betrayal and hardship to hope and newfound family—are beautifully crafted, making this a must-read for fans of epic tales with heart.
If you're looking for a deeply emotional and action-packed story of growth, survival, and finding one’s place in the world, Lapidius will leave you spellbound.
Matthew Runals’ Lapidius is an extraordinary tale that weaves together complex themes of despair, redemption, and the power of unity. Set against the backdrop of Novum Albion, a nation once rich in culture and ideals, the story explores the lives of those abandoned by society, where greed and ignorance have taken root.
The Lapidius institute becomes a beacon of hope for children lost in a compromised nation. Through vivid storytelling, Runals paints a world where strangers forge bonds stronger than blood, where monsters symbolize the inner and outer battles we all face, and where even the most broken can find purpose. The characters’ journeys—from betrayal and hardship to hope and newfound family—are beautifully crafted, making this a must-read for fans of epic tales with heart.
If you're looking for a deeply emotional and action-packed story of growth, survival, and finding one’s place in the world, Lapidius will leave you spellbound.
August 24, 2024
Welcome to Lapidius, a school similar to Hogwarts but instead of teaching you magic you are taught military tactics. The children here are put through their paces in a rigorous training regime and they encounter monsters in the forest outside the school and a mysterious cave that allows them to discover unknown special gifts. During all this, things are changing in the outside world of Novum Albion. War is brewing and it soon comes knocking on Lapidius’s door. The children discover they will have to put everything they have learned and trained for and their special gifts to use in order to survive the brutal battle that inevitably comes. This is a good fantasy read that has some fine descriptive story telling. I look forward to seeing if a sequel comes out after the ending which has a satisfying conclusion but potential for more to follow.
September 5, 2024
his is my first book by this author in which I enjoyed reading from beginning to end. This is a young adult story about Joey and his mom. There is not much work for his mom so she sends Joey away to Lipidius. It is a mystical, fantasy place that is full of magic and monsters. This is a nation where the students find that they have something to fight for. What happens with Joey is something you don’t want to miss. He is a great character that any young adult will enjoy reading about and the adventure he takes you on is not one you will soon forget. I enjoyed watching the growth of the characters throughout the story that made it easy and entertaining to read. This is a fast paced story that is engaging and hard to put down. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this book.
September 9, 2024
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I LOVED this story. Getting to discover a new author to me and reading a fantastic story along the way makes me so happy. This is a young adult, dystopian story with adventure, hope, friendships, and magic. Having a bond of friendship between the four of Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas and fighting for what is right...this is a fantastic story and I highly encourage anyone to give this book a chance.
When families have to make a decision believing it is for the better because of it is hard to feed everyone in the family, Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas are sent to Lapidius. Learning there is more to venture....the mystery is only beginning....
This book gave me a roller coaster of emotions....which I love about a great story. The author did a fantastic job on details that really brought this story to life.
I LOVED this story. Getting to discover a new author to me and reading a fantastic story along the way makes me so happy. This is a young adult, dystopian story with adventure, hope, friendships, and magic. Having a bond of friendship between the four of Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas and fighting for what is right...this is a fantastic story and I highly encourage anyone to give this book a chance.
When families have to make a decision believing it is for the better because of it is hard to feed everyone in the family, Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas are sent to Lapidius. Learning there is more to venture....the mystery is only beginning....
This book gave me a roller coaster of emotions....which I love about a great story. The author did a fantastic job on details that really brought this story to life.
September 25, 2024
"Lapidius" by Matthew Runals offers a thought-provoking narrative set in a declining nation once vibrant with culture and hope. The novel explores the consequences of a society that has lost its way, where greed and numbness have replaced inspiration and purpose. Runals’ portrayal of Novum Albion reflects a deeper commentary on the fragility of societal values and the erosion of identity. Lapidius, a martial institute for children, emerges as a beacon of structure and purpose amid the chaos. Through the experiences of the youth at the school, the story delves into themes of discipline, identity, and the search for meaning in a compromised world. Runals captures the emotional and philosophical struggles of a generation trying to find their place, making this a compelling read for those interested in dystopian themes intertwined with personal growth.
September 25, 2024
This is the first book in A Nation Found series as well as the first book I have read by this author. I was completely engrossed in it within the first couple of pages and didn’t put it down until I finished! I may have skipped a day full of chores, but I’m okay with that decision because this book was simply incredible. The characters are well-crafted and even secondary characters are given plenty of backstories and depth. The pacing is well-executed and although I am quite a bit over the target audience age, I fell in love with it. This is a gripping tale that blends adventure, magic, and the harsh realities of war. If you enjoy the Hunger Games and Harry Potter kind of vibes, you will likely jump for joy when reading this book. Even if it may be out of your comfort zone, I implore you to give it a go!
September 23, 2024
Zalous
Lapidius follows 4 friends through their time at Military school. Scrimmage matches with a paralysing powder, that also causes pain and eternal pain without the antidote. Each cadets receives powers from a magical cave, as well.
A corrupt officer that abuses his power and instills fear into his cadets, eventually gets caught and banned from the school and turns to the enemy to seek revenge.
Corrupt government steals the monuments from towns to prevent learning for the townspeople of their own history, and their protection from the monsters lurking in the woods, but with it they also start to lose their memories. The fate of nation lies in the hands of the cadets that range from 12-16.
Lapidius follows 4 friends through their time at Military school. Scrimmage matches with a paralysing powder, that also causes pain and eternal pain without the antidote. Each cadets receives powers from a magical cave, as well.
A corrupt officer that abuses his power and instills fear into his cadets, eventually gets caught and banned from the school and turns to the enemy to seek revenge.
Corrupt government steals the monuments from towns to prevent learning for the townspeople of their own history, and their protection from the monsters lurking in the woods, but with it they also start to lose their memories. The fate of nation lies in the hands of the cadets that range from 12-16.
September 25, 2024
Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals. This is my first book by this author but it won't be my last. I absolutely loved it and its a young adult read. Its the story of 4 boys as they head to a military academy for training. Their parents are at their wits end because of poverty and not being able to provide for their families so Lapidius is their only option. Lapidius is a military academy for training in a war. There is also some extra training thrown in with some magic and dystopian factions thrown in. Friendships are formed between Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas and they have build bonds that will never be broken. This book is full of adventure, danger, famine and war but its also full of love and friendship. A great read for the older kids in your life!
September 25, 2024
4 Stars
Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals
Lapidius is the first book in the A Nation Found Series and is a YA/ Fantasy/Dystopian read that will have you turning the pages till the end. I’m going to be honest I wasn’t sure going in what to expect as this is a new author to me. I had a really hard time getting into the story until several chapters in and by then I was forcing myself to keep going. I’m thinking I’m gonna revist this book at another time see if my opinion changes. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and felt like it was all over the place. I will recommend reading this book if you are into these types of genres. I do look forward to reading more from this Author and I hope this was just a mood .
Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals
Lapidius is the first book in the A Nation Found Series and is a YA/ Fantasy/Dystopian read that will have you turning the pages till the end. I’m going to be honest I wasn’t sure going in what to expect as this is a new author to me. I had a really hard time getting into the story until several chapters in and by then I was forcing myself to keep going. I’m thinking I’m gonna revist this book at another time see if my opinion changes. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and felt like it was all over the place. I will recommend reading this book if you are into these types of genres. I do look forward to reading more from this Author and I hope this was just a mood .
September 25, 2024
This is a chunky book. At over 400 pages, it's defintely on the larger size to tackle. However, it needed to be. There was so much detail and world building in this story. There was just so much altogether. You get sucked into a different time and place. It is exactly what you want from a book. This book is geared towards kids, but more so the teenage years. (Depending on the child) Though this is a heavy book with a TON of detail, it is easy to read.
The main character finds himself in what is to be like a military school. He soon has a group of friends who are all training essentially for a game. This will get them ready for the war that is brewing around them. These friends soon discover that there are monsters and magic within.
The main character finds himself in what is to be like a military school. He soon has a group of friends who are all training essentially for a game. This will get them ready for the war that is brewing around them. These friends soon discover that there are monsters and magic within.
September 9, 2024
I was quite interested in checking this story out, it had so many intriguing elements, the war, the military school for children, and magic and monsters. The author did a great job of creating well written characters that we get to see grow and mature throughout the story. The vivid and creative descriptions make you feel like you are right there with Joey and his friends Kyle, Brian, and Lucas as they begin their training and learn more about their new home. I greatly enjoyed the military strategies as as well the political pieces in the story, the author created a world that feels very realistic, while also full of magic and monsters. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
September 12, 2024
This is a well written and exciting story that had me hooked almost immediately. My interest was piqued even reading the description of this book. I picked it up based on the cover, and the description was not at all what I was expecting. Which I always find exciting!
The author did a great job of pulling you straight into the story. I connected with the characters instantly was found myself being swept along on their adventure. The premise of the book was really interesting. The nature of Lapidius was great and the combination of the characters all seemed to fit well. This was a surprising book but a really enjoyable one!
The author did a great job of pulling you straight into the story. I connected with the characters instantly was found myself being swept along on their adventure. The premise of the book was really interesting. The nature of Lapidius was great and the combination of the characters all seemed to fit well. This was a surprising book but a really enjoyable one!
September 18, 2024
This book takes you to the country of Novum Albion, where the school of Lapidius is located. You join a group of new cadets arriving for their first year at the prestigious school. Upon starting training and classes, cadets soon realize the education they received at home was very different. While discovering the truth of their countries past, the cadets soon learn “The Game” played at school could soon turn real, as The Embers emerge to try and change the government and country. The story told in multiple POV’s allows you to get to know each character better, especially as there is a lot of world building.
September 22, 2024
Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas head to a military academy which other kids have been sent to. Nervous to see what the academy is all about, they find it is nothing like they imagined. Trained to be an asset for a war that is coming, they will be put through a grueling change in their life that has Joey concerned about his mom. What will happen when the threat gets closer?
I thought this was written beautifully, very visual in the writing. I could imagine this world, the people and the magical moments that implode on the pages. I definitely will be reading more, very curious to what happens next.
I thought this was written beautifully, very visual in the writing. I could imagine this world, the people and the magical moments that implode on the pages. I definitely will be reading more, very curious to what happens next.
September 24, 2024
What a world the author has created in this first book of A Nation Found series! In this dystopian novel, Novum Albion is nation facing famine and ruin due to greed and inflation. Hoping for a better future for their kids some parents are choosing to send their children to a military camp, Lapidius. Joey, Kyle, Brian, and Lucas are scared and unsure of what's to come. What follows is a story of friendship, magic, adventure, and most of all unity.
Gosh, I truly enjoyed this book. Other reviews have compared it to Harry Potter and I have to agree. The author has built a wonderful world and an amazing cast of characters. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Gosh, I truly enjoyed this book. Other reviews have compared it to Harry Potter and I have to agree. The author has built a wonderful world and an amazing cast of characters. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
May 1, 2024
Fantastic!
Matthew Runals has written a fantastic story. Although this book was out of my wheelhouse I decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did. By the first few pages I was completely caught up in the adventure.
This fantasy adventure has a cast of many characters that were easy to follow and relate too. Young men and women searching for the truth of their world while finding the truth within themselves.
While learning the great Game they grow in strength, confidence, and courage.
I highly recommend this book.
Matthew Runals has written a fantastic story. Although this book was out of my wheelhouse I decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did. By the first few pages I was completely caught up in the adventure.
This fantasy adventure has a cast of many characters that were easy to follow and relate too. Young men and women searching for the truth of their world while finding the truth within themselves.
While learning the great Game they grow in strength, confidence, and courage.
I highly recommend this book.
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