Magical school adventures sprinkled with romance and mystery. This is the debut novel by a Singaporean author, with the potential to develop into a series.
Title: Guardians Of Glyndor: The Disappearing Creatures
Author: Nicoleclaire C.
Genres: Fantasy > Adventures > Mythology
Read Format: Kindle Edition
Total Pages: 334
Reading Date: 31st July 2024 – 02nd August 2024
Guardians Of Glyndor: The Disappearing Creatures
Two teenagers become Earth’s last hope.
Step into the newly imagined world of Eldora in Guardians of Glyndor. This fresh fantasy series-launching debut is perfect for readers who love coming-of-age magical school adventures, sprinkled with romance and mystery.
When a mysterious recruiter enters their lives, Jesse, a brilliant but disadvantaged student, and Emily, an outcast with the ability to understand animals, think it’s a dream come true. They’re whisked away to Glyndor, a magical boarding school that’s hidden between dimensions, where the impossible is everyday reality. There, they cultivate friendships with peers from all over Earth, each recruited for their unique talents. In this enchanted realm, their abilities blossom into extraordinary gifts.
They spend their days riding on flying caterpillars, battling in shadow duels, and navigating mirror dimensions. Then, their magical education takes a dark turn when heroes and creatures start vanishing from Eldora. Each riddle they solve and puzzle they crack leads them closer to a terrifying a banished sorcerer is behind this, plotting to reshape their world.
With the Three Moon Ceremony approaching and rifts appearing, Jesse and Emily must master their newfound abilities and lead their friends in a race against time. In this thrilling coming-of-age story, they learn that growing up means making impossible choices, as they discover how much they’re willing to sacrifice to save not just Eldora, but the entire Earth.
My thoughts…
This book is a fantastic addition to the fantasy genre. The illustrations of the characters and the scenery are stunning, even in black and white on the Kindle, and perhaps in the next book we will see pictures of some magical creatures too. Nevertheless, I would prefer the images to be situated following their corresponding descriptions rather than at the beginning or end of the book.
It’s also worth noting that the story is narrated in the third person. I personally prefer first-person narratives because they feel more personal to me as if I am the character. This approach makes it easier for me to immerse myself in the story and feel a deeper connection to it. However, that’s just my perspective.
As for the characters, I love learning more about their backgrounds. Alex and Victoria still feel a bit mysterious to me. As for Emily, I’m curious about her parents’ history. This aspect is never explored, other than mentioning that she was brought up by her grandmother.
Regarding romance, as the characters are sixteen years old, I’m relieved that things didn’t develop. Since this is intended to be a series, I hope that once the characters are over twenty-one, we can explore a more meaningful relationship. For now, I believe that the element of love or soul mate in the story feels unwarranted.
In summary, this is an exceptional fantasy tale, skillfully penned with vivid imagery that brings the enchanting world of Glyndor to life. If the sequel is available, I would no doubt dive right into the next instalment. I’m excited to see the characters face new challenges, maybe learn more about them, watch Emily reach her full potential, and observe how Jesse, as the team leader, safeguards his teammates on their next adventure while preventing the prophecy from becoming a reality!
Lastly, thank you for providing the ARC copy. While a review isn’t compulsory, I decided to write one out of my own accord. Congratulations on your debut, NicoleclaireC! I wish I could give it five stars, but I found several character details lacking, which made it challenging for me to connect with them. I’m optimistic that the next book will improve and be as enjoyable as the Medoran Chronicles by Lynette Noni, which this story reminds me of.
