Tag: fantasy middle grade

Interview with Author Dana Robertson

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

Writing is something I’ve done for as long as I can remember, jotting down ideas and random thoughts. I studied literature at university, completing a degree in English and psychology.

However, I pursued a career in psychology, working in counseling, vocational rehabilitation and psychometry. But my love of literature and passion for writing always remained, which I’m now focused on. And I’m excited and nervous to share my debut novel.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

My fascination with abandoned buildings and old theaters inspired The Abandoned Theater. I’m intrigued by the buildings themselves, the grand lobbies, ornate ceilings and rich tapestries throughout. And the shared experience as an audience reacts to the actors in unison, holding their breath, gasping, and laughing.

I pictured a theater standing in eerie silence and imagined what could have happened, causing it to be abandoned. I envisioned the audience settling into their seats, the anticipation building, then silence as the last performance begins. Their eyes widening, and gasps echoing as fear took hold. I imagined them scrambling over the seats, spilling into the aisles, desperate to escape.

Then I built the story around the mystery of that theater.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

The Abandoned Theater while, intended as a fun escape and easy read, touches on deeper themes middle graders could encounter. Hopefully, the reader can relate to some of what the characters are experiencing, and their friendships while highlighting discovery and resilience.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I write mystery, science fiction and fantasy. I particularly enjoy writing middle grade fantasy because it frees your imagination to explore fantastical worlds and to go on magical adventures.

Middle schoolers are full of wonder and curiosity. And it’s fun to reflect how it felt at that age.

5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

I would sit down with Darthius and ask if he regrets any of his choices, knowing now where they led.

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6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

I’m not very savvy with social media, although I’m currently exploring Instagram and finding some wonderful connections.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

The best advice I ever received is after you write your first novel, put it away. Then write at least a couple more and read. When you go back to the original one, you’ll realize how much can be improved after honing your skills, practicing, reading and learning.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

The Abandoned Theater is book one of the Alderland Series, soon to be followed by book two, Return to Gatland. I’m also completing the final rewrites of an adult mystery novel, Murder in Rockwell Estates.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dana Robertson lives in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. She completed a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Psychology with Trent University in Peterborough Ontario, followed by a graduate creative writing program with the Humber School for Writers in Toronto, Ontario.

Formerly, a vocational rehabilitation consultant, psychometrist, youth counselor, and a small business operator.

She writes fantasy, mystery, science fiction and middle grade fiction. When she’s not writing, she enjoys traveling, nature, hiking and reading.The Abandoned Theater is her debut novel and book one of the Alderland Series.

Links to sites:

Author website: www.danarobertsonbooks.com

Publisher website: Abandoned Theater, The from Our Street

Instagram: Instagram

Facebook: Facebook

Purchase links: 

Amazon: The Abandoned Theater: Alderland Series – Book One (A Novel): Robertson, Dana: 9781803417509: Amazon.com: Books

Barnes and Noble: The Abandoned Theater by Dana Robertson, Paperback | Barnes & Noble®

Indigo: The Abandoned Theater: Alderland Series – Book One (a Novel) Book By Dana Robertson, (Paperback) | Indigo

Walmart: Alderland The Abandoned Theater, (Paperback) – Walmart.com

The Abandoned Theater (Alderland Series Book One) by Dana Robertson Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

In Dana Robertson’s The Abandoned Theater, the first in the Alderland Series, a young girl goes to an abandoned theater in search of a missing teenager, only to discover an evil that threatens multiple worlds.

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The Synopsis

Deep in the woods of the Winnodov property sits the abandoned theater. Something mysterious happened during the last performance there – the same night Mr. Winnodov disappeared. Eight years later, it’s happening again. A group of mischievous teenagers sneaks into the theater. And now, one is missing. When 12-year-old Beth Shoner learns who the missing teen is, she sets off with two friends to find him. But what they discover is more astonishing than they could ever have imagined. Now, Beth must defeat an evil plan unleashed long ago that threatens to destroy countless worlds, including their own.

AudiobooksNow

The Review

What a compelling and engaging read. The author does a marvelous job of balancing the relatable, heartfelt character development with the visceral fantasy world-building that the author was able to create. The imagery in the author’s writing made the world the characters stumbled into feel alive on the page, and the mythology the author was able to drive into the narrative not only ramped up the drama quickly but honed in on some of the more personal mysteries tied to the characters themselves.

What stood out was how much this story seemed to embody the themes and nostalgia that so many projects in this genre have established beforehand while still creating a fresh and remarkable story. Whether it was Steven Spielberg’s E.T. or the modern-day Stranger Things, the idea of young people having to confront the strange and the unknown and face their own looming adulthood in the process was thoroughly presented in this narrative. 

The Verdict

Action-packed, magical, and entertaining author Dana Robertson’s “The Abandoned Theater” is a must-read middle-school/YA fantasy read. The magical world-building that the story takes on and the rich and relatable character dynamics of this novel make this a remarkable narrative that readers won’t be able to get enough of and will be eager for the next entry into the series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on May 1st, 2025 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Dana Robertson lives in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. She completed a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Psychology with Trent University in Peterborough Ontario, followed by a graduate creative writing program with the Humber School for Writers in Toronto, Ontario. She writes mystery, fantasy, science fiction and middle grade. The Abandoned Theater is her debut novel and book one of the Alderland Series.

Dana Robertson Books

Map of a Soundless Clock: The Books of the Golden Dolphins Book II by Matthew Rudd Reynolds Review 

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young girl and her supernatural golden dolphin must use the artifacts they uncovered together to help ensure the future of the ship Kronos and her crew against a deadly threat in author Matthew Rudd Reynolds’s “Map of a Soundless Clock”, the second book in The Books of the Golden Dolphins series.

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The Synopsis

Lost. There’s no other word for it; the sailing ship Kronos is lost — in deep space, no less! Months after leaving Earth, tensions on the ancient ship are running high. Much is expected from twelve-year old Andi and her supernatural golden dolphin, Lux. Beset by disaster, an angry crew questions the mission and an assassination attempt on Andi’s life sends the pair away — only for a malevolent figure known as Mynost to pursue them across the stars, seeking to obtain the long-lost artifacts found by the pair that could hold the answers. A hard choice must be made that will determine the future of the Kronos forever — a decision not all will survive.

The Review

This was such an incredible follow-up to the author’s first YA/Middle-Grade level sci-fi and fantasy series the author began previously. The world-building and action are of course so well done here, and the bond between Lux and Andi seems to play an even more integral role in the narrative this time around, with their partners through this journey becoming the foundation of their power as well as the core of the personal conflicts they face together from the crew of the Kronos. 

Yet to me, the true heart of this narrative was in fact the character growth of Andi. The young woman is not even a teen yet, and yet she must not only hone her skills and powers to help protect her ship but must discover the true heart of what it takes to lead people on a life-or-death mission. The mystery behind their new threat and the atmosphere the author crafts to build the tensions that arise help to draw the reader further and further into the narrative.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, entertaining, and mesmerizing, author Matthew Rudd Reynolds’s “Map of a Soundless Clock” is a brilliant new addition to the Golden Dolphins Books series. Breathtaking imagery in the author’s writing brought this cosmic journey to life so eloquently, and the rich dynamics between the protagonist and the crew of the Kronos made for some great tension buildup and themes of identity and leadership in Andi’s character arc that is impossible to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BCHKD43Q/ref=x_gr_w_glide_sin?caller=Goodreads&callerLink=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodreads.com%2Fbook%2Fshow%2F62615147-map-of-a-soundless-clock%3Fac%3D1%26from_search%3Dtrue%26qid%3D7dbIFJXgIq%26rank%3D1&tag=x_gr_w_glide_sin-20

Embracing the Magic: A Middle-Grade Magical Fantasy (Town Magician Book One) by S.A. Schneider Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young boy who dreams of becoming a powerful wizard must work with his bitter rival, a trickster who has convinced his town that he is a powerful magician himself when an evil wizard arrives to destroy their home and those they care about in author S.A. Schneider’s “Embracing the Magic”, the first in the Town Magician series.

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The Synopsis

Their hero is a fraud and only he knows it. When the truth comes knocking, can one boy conjure a way to save the day?

Young Samual longs to perform magic of his own. And what’s worse, he can’t seem to convince anyone that their beloved Town Magician is a trickster without an enchanted bone in his body. When a wicked wizard challenges the pretender to a duel, Samual vows keep his village safe by forcing the fraudster to rise to the challenge.

Determined to prevent disaster, he secretly shadows the phony protector during his training with the Grand Wizard. And when they barely escape an attack by dire wolves, Samual realizes he must partner up with his bitter rival. But keeping the truth hidden any longer may not help them outwit a powerful sorcerer.

With his town in grave danger, can Samual protect the ones he loves from the forces of evil?

Embracing the Magic is the enchanting first story in the Town Magician middle grade fantasy series. If you enjoy unlikely heroes, coming-of-age adventures, and spellbinding creatures, then you’ll love S.A. Schneider’s fantastical tale.

The Review

This was such a captivating and tantalizing read. The author did an incredible job of capturing a unique world filled with magic and wonder. The imagery and atmosphere did a beautiful job of bringing the action and adventure of the story to life on the page. The way the author is able to relate this story to younger readers and provide both study guides, terminology, and a reference guide on the world-building he did was great to see brought to life. 

For me though, the character growth and world-building/mythos the author creates in this story were the highlights of the narrative. The relationship between Rory and Samual was such a rollercoaster of highs and lows throughout the narrative, showing the bond they form and the motivations that take life as their journey continues. The concept of challenges between town magicians, a Town Magician Council, and so much more made this story feel so vibrant and alive on the page. 

The Verdict

With amazing world-building, rich atmosphere, and engaging storytelling, author S.A. Schneider’s “Embracing the Magic” is an incredible Middle-Grade Fantasy Adventure novel and the perfect first chapter in this emerging series. The emotional growth of the characters, the powerful villain they face, and the entertaining narrative will have young readers and others alike hanging off of the author’s every word. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Don’t you wish you could have a lightsaber? I imagine it all the time. And force powers – definitely force powers. Think of that? Oh, wait – how about spider powers? Shooting web lines and clinging to walls. You could get to school in style.

OK, so we can’t have those. At least to the best of my knowledge. What’s the next best thing? Reading stories about other worlds. I guess I’ll have to settle for that and hopefully you’d like to come along for the ride.

I live and grew up in a rural area in Ohio. That left a lot of room for reading. I now live with my family and create stories set in many other places.

For now, I have to visit another world.


Enjoy the adventure!

https://www.sa-schneider.com/

Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal by Ryan Cowan Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young boy learning to hone his unique magical abilities must stop a powerful evil witch on Halloween Night before the human world is forever changed in author Ryan Cowan’s novel “Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal.”

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The Synopsis

Elliott attends his third-grade class like any other boy, except that Elliott isn’t like any other boy. Endowed with magical powers, Elliott belongs to a secret world called Moonstone – and trouble is brewing. When the evil witch Noir steals The Halloween Crystal, it’s up to Elliott and his third-grade teacher, Mr. Moonbeam, to stop Noir from invading the non-magical world on Halloween night. But can Elliott learn to master his powers in time?

Moonbeam Children’s Book Award for Pre-Teen Fiction, Ebook (Bronze) 2019

The Review

A truly engaging and magical read, author Ryan Cowan has crafted a masterful tale of magic, mythology, and wonder in this brand new fantasy-driven children’s book. The story really shines through in this tale, giving readers new mythology between the world of magic and the world of humanity that brings all of the supernatural and magical creatures of lore into the forefront. 

Rather than having a human falling into the world of magic and crafting a tale of discovery, the author does a great job of exploring a cast of characters well versed in the world of magic. What really stood out however was the author’s ability to create a narrative that highlighted the in-class relationship between a teacher and a student as the teacher attempts to impart knowledge that will help the student grow into the roles they were meant to be in life. 

The Verdict

This was a fast-paced, easy to read tale of supernatural entities, a clash between evil witches and good witches, and the impact magic has on two worlds as a rising witch discovers his unique abilities while a seasoned witch must find a way to stop an impending apocalypse. If you haven’t yet, grab your copy of author Ryan Cowan’s “Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal” today! 

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ryan Cowan grew up in a small town called Middleport, Ohio. He currently lives in Hawthorne, CA. As a teacher with almost 20 years of experience, Ryan has taught all grades from K-6th. He currently works as an assistant principal for the Los Angeles Unified School District.

Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal is his first children’s book. A magical story with complex themes, Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal highlights the difficulties of teaching while also chronicling the important problem solving relationship between a teacher and his student. A sequel is currently in the works.

Ryan has degrees and/or credentials in education from the following universities: Marshall University (BFA Music Theory), UCLA (M.Ed. Urban Education), California State University Los Angeles (Multiple Subject Teaching Credential), and California State University Dominguez Hills (Administrative Services Credential).

’Til the Last Snowflake Falls (The Adventures of Fawn #1) by Al E. Boy Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

A young reindeer seeking a life of excitement and adventure finds more than she bargained for as her adventures soon become more dangerous than she could have ever known in author Al E. Boy’s novel “’Til the Last Snowflake Falls (The Adventures of Fawn #1)”. 

The Synopsis

“I want some fun and excitement! I don’t care how dangerous it is!” Even if your parents are legendary reindeer Comet and Vixen, life can still be pretty boring. Fawn is a precocious youngster who starts sneaking out of the stable every day looking for fun, excitement…and friends. She’ll find them all…but she’s also going to encounter more than her share of danger! 

The Review

The author does a fantastic job of creating a wholly unique and original Middle Grade Action/Adventure story that incorporates both new characters and classic fairy tale and holiday characters readers will know and love. The story focuses on the power of friendship, family and the pros and cons of seeking adventure and a life outside of the one you know. It also highlights the struggles of youth to connect with others and the natural rebellion many children face when they become their own person. 

A mixture of a middle grade action/adventure story that explores the innocence of youth and a rich setting filled with magic and wonder, this story does an excellent job of drawing the reader in and creating a story that both naturally feels like a holiday read and yet could be enjoyed any time of the year. 

The Verdict

A story of exciting adventures, shocking twists and turns and a magical ending that speaks to the nature of this wonderful tale, author Al E. Boy is a natural born storyteller who does a great job of creating fresh new takes on classic characters. With a whole new cast of characters for readers to fall in love with, this is a story you won’t want to miss, so be sure to grab your copy of ’Til the Last Snowflake Falls by Al E. Boy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Through almost 40 years as a Santa Claus, Al E. Boy developed quite a repertoire of tales to explain and answer the many questions children ask about Santa, the North Pole, his reindeer, and his friends, the elves.

It was this collection of tales which prompted him to begin writing The Adventures of Fawn. Through the young daughter of legendary reindeer Comet and Vixen, he’s been able to weave an exciting, colorful, imaginative world which will delight readers of all ages!

Mr. Boy not only hopes you enjoy these tales, but make reading them part of your Christmas traditions, as well.

Additional info: ‘Til the Last Snowflake Falls was awarded the Bronze Medal in Dan Poynter’s 2017 Global E-book Awards, is listed as ‘Recommended Reading’ with The US Review of Books, and was awarded an Honoree Medallion by indieB.R.A.G.. In addition, it has garnered a number of favorable reviews.

Links: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NRZO920

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36291145-til-the-last-snowflake-falls

http://aleboysnowflake.wixsite.com/fawn

Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/The-Adventures-of-Fawn-740272912731782/