From Writers of the Future Winner Elise Stephens comes an epic adventure of magic, risk, and coming of age.
2015 INDIEFAB Book of the Year Finalist
Twelve-year-old Liam Finley doesn't expect anything good when he is forced to change his Dublin home for his stepfather's large country house on the edge of the wild woods. But after the first night there, Liam's dreary boredom shatters as fairy tales spring to life in his new home. Has he truly discovered a dragon egg?
The house's old blind gardener Michael Moran claims to know Liam's secret destiny, which lies in an enchanted Otherworld. He says Liam is the next Guardian of the Gold Breathers, a champion of dragons whose quest will take every bit of his courage if he is going to survive battle with ancient, powerful enemies. Time is not on Liam's side. Can he complete his three dangerous tasks to prove himself as Guardian before the paths close between his world and the Guardian's land? Liam wants to believe Michael's mysterious tales, but should he instead seek shelter in the practical kindness of Hannah, the housekeeper who calls Michael's stories "rubbish"? Liam's heart tells him to trust the things of magic, but it's the humans he can't be sure about.
A brilliant addition to a young reader's bookshelf. Recommend for ages 10 and up.
Themes in this story include losing a parent, family relationships, dealing with guilt, overcoming challenges, facing your fears, and standing up for what is right, even when it costs you something.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THIS EXCITING, MAGICAL ADVENTURE:
"The rich characters are so real that the fantastical elements feel as if they can be nothing other than truth. I found myself looking forward to reading this story and thought of it long after I had finished."
-Hilary Hayes, Amazon Reviewer
"This is fantasy at its finest! The book is a combination of the YA novel Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher and the Narnia series. Great read that is perfect for the whole family. I highly recommend it!"
-Nathan, Amazon Reviewer
"...A fun, easy, quick read that is family friendly, suitable for young readers, but also sparks the imagination in adults. The characters were so real and likable, it left me with a feeling of 'what's next?'"
-Michelle Heue, Amazon Reviewer
"I'd be intensely interested in reading a sequel; this could bloom into a wonderful series of books akin to Pern."
-Rob Slaven, Amazon Top 1000 Reviewer
"The world-building was vivid, and it wasn't hard to imagine myself at a country estate, in a forest, in a maze, or in a tunnel with a smelly troll. Stephens describes her world masterfully, and I thoroughly enjoyed being swept up in it...I highly recommend this winner from Elise Stephens for pre-teens who love adventure stories based in folklore, fairytales, and mythology."
-Lydia Thomas, Amazon Reviewer
"Most commendable is Stephens' ability to effortlessly weave values and ethics into the story, giving it depth...worthy of re-reading, reflection and discussion...Self-respect, courage, respect for women and the importance of family and friendship are all of value to our hero...an intriguing and enriching middle-grade read."
-Georgia Girly, Amazon Reviewer
