What do you think?
Rate this book
The Making of a Mage King #1
Prince in Hiding
What would happen to you if you lost your parents at 17?
And then... what if they weren't your parents at all?
When Sean loses his parents within a year of each other he can't see past the tragedy... until he finds out his father isn't really his father... and Sean isn't who he thinks he is. Follow Sean through his journey to a magical world where he is royalty and his powers are only beginning to bloom... and family is a relative concept - evil uncles and all.
Prince in Hiding by Anna Walls is the first in the Making of a Mage King series that follows young Sean from boy to Mage King!
And then... what if they weren't your parents at all?
When Sean loses his parents within a year of each other he can't see past the tragedy... until he finds out his father isn't really his father... and Sean isn't who he thinks he is. Follow Sean through his journey to a magical world where he is royalty and his powers are only beginning to bloom... and family is a relative concept - evil uncles and all.
Prince in Hiding by Anna Walls is the first in the Making of a Mage King series that follows young Sean from boy to Mage King!
- GenresFantasy
312 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2012
11 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Anna L. Walls
25 books104 followersI grew up a rancher's daughter hoping to inherit the ranch and run a riding school for city kids. However, my brother bought the ranch from our parents in order to avoid an inheritance tax, and I ended up joining the army, marrying my fisherman husband, and moving to the wilderness of Alaska where I raised two wonderful boys. One of them gave me an old laptop computer and now I'm a published author. Go figure.
I can be emailed at AnnaLWalls@gmail.com
And for those of you who keep inviting me - The only RPing I do is Dungeons & Dragons.
I can be emailed at AnnaLWalls@gmail.com
And for those of you who keep inviting me - The only RPing I do is Dungeons & Dragons.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
September 29, 2016
A Creative and Impressive Flight of the Imagination!
This story had every element a good story should have. An exciting plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well illustrated scenes that really make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that's something I really look for in a good book.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flows from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are twists and turns in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those stories that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!
This is definitely a recommended read. It’s an impressive fantasy tale that gets off to a great start and lends itself to unlimited potential for future installments. I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from Anna L. Walls in the future! Five stars from me.
This story had every element a good story should have. An exciting plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well illustrated scenes that really make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that's something I really look for in a good book.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flows from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are twists and turns in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those stories that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!
This is definitely a recommended read. It’s an impressive fantasy tale that gets off to a great start and lends itself to unlimited potential for future installments. I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from Anna L. Walls in the future! Five stars from me.
August 26, 2012
I found this book to be quite entertaining. I found it through Amazon Recommendations, and they were right again!
I read the book in pretty much one sitting as i find with the short books that it makes the story that much better!
I had a few issues with how easy some things were for the main character, but not enough issues to not finish the book. I kept reading, realising there were going to be more books, and that perhaps the ease of the first major battle the main character had, would then be used as a sort of scale for the future challenges that have been hinted rather strongly at.
my misgivings aside - I really enjoyed the book, and if you are after an afternoon filled with a good story...then give this book a go. I will certainly be looking forward to the next chapter in the story!
I read the book in pretty much one sitting as i find with the short books that it makes the story that much better!
I had a few issues with how easy some things were for the main character, but not enough issues to not finish the book. I kept reading, realising there were going to be more books, and that perhaps the ease of the first major battle the main character had, would then be used as a sort of scale for the future challenges that have been hinted rather strongly at.
my misgivings aside - I really enjoyed the book, and if you are after an afternoon filled with a good story...then give this book a go. I will certainly be looking forward to the next chapter in the story!
February 8, 2013
Sean, a New York city teenage suddenly discovers his destiny and his feet are set upon a path toward ruling an empire as its King, if he can live that long and vanquish his evil uncle. The learning is not easy and not without risks, and not all of his caretakers are what they seem.
Author, Anna Walls, creates a riveting tale of adventure and personal growth as the youthful would-be monarch moves towards setting things right in a kingdom once ruled by his ancestors. I am looking forward to the next installment.
Author, Anna Walls, creates a riveting tale of adventure and personal growth as the youthful would-be monarch moves towards setting things right in a kingdom once ruled by his ancestors. I am looking forward to the next installment.
September 29, 2016
A Creative and Impressive Flight of the Imagination!
This story had every element a good story should have. An exciting plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well illustrated scenes that really make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that's something I really look for in a good book.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flows from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are twists and turns in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those stories that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!
This is definitely a recommended read. It’s an impressive fantasy tale that gets off to a great start and lends itself to unlimited potential for future installments. I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from Anna L. Walls in the future! Five stars from me.
This story had every element a good story should have. An exciting plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. There’s an abundance of well illustrated scenes that really make you feel like you are right there in the story, and that's something I really look for in a good book.
This captivating and commendable work had me immersed from the beginning. The story flows from scene to scene with ease, and the author shows exceptional ability when it comes to storytelling. There are twists and turns in this page turner that will take the reader on a gripping journey!
It’s one of those stories that come along once in awhile that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader!
This is definitely a recommended read. It’s an impressive fantasy tale that gets off to a great start and lends itself to unlimited potential for future installments. I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading more from Anna L. Walls in the future! Five stars from me.
September 23, 2025
Reading Prince in Hiding felt like stepping into one of those stories that remind you why you fell in love with fantasy in the first place. Anna L. Walls weaves Sean’s journey with such raw emotion that I found myself immediately invested in his pain and confusion. Losing both parents at such a young age is already heartbreaking, but then to discover that your entire identity isn’t what you thought it was? That twist had me hooked.
Sean’s struggles with grief, self discovery, and the sudden weight of destiny felt very real to me. He doesn’t just leap into his new role as if it were easy he wrestles with it, doubts himself, and slowly grows into the person he’s meant to be. I loved that balance between vulnerability and courage; it made him relatable even though he’s stepping into a magical world with powers and royal bloodlines.
The world building is rich without being overwhelming. From the magical elements to the lurking dangers of family betrayal that evil uncle trope is always a good one when done right, Walls pulls you into a setting that feels both dangerous and full of wonder. I also appreciated how the story isn’t just about magic it’s about identity, resilience, and the complicated bonds of family, both chosen and inherited.
By the time I finished, I could already see why this is the first book in a series. Sean’s transformation is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see how his journey as the future Mage King unfolds. Prince in Hiding is a heartfelt and adventurous start, perfect for readers who want both emotional depth and the thrill of discovering a new fantasy world.
Sean’s struggles with grief, self discovery, and the sudden weight of destiny felt very real to me. He doesn’t just leap into his new role as if it were easy he wrestles with it, doubts himself, and slowly grows into the person he’s meant to be. I loved that balance between vulnerability and courage; it made him relatable even though he’s stepping into a magical world with powers and royal bloodlines.
The world building is rich without being overwhelming. From the magical elements to the lurking dangers of family betrayal that evil uncle trope is always a good one when done right, Walls pulls you into a setting that feels both dangerous and full of wonder. I also appreciated how the story isn’t just about magic it’s about identity, resilience, and the complicated bonds of family, both chosen and inherited.
By the time I finished, I could already see why this is the first book in a series. Sean’s transformation is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see how his journey as the future Mage King unfolds. Prince in Hiding is a heartfelt and adventurous start, perfect for readers who want both emotional depth and the thrill of discovering a new fantasy world.
October 5, 2025
Reading Prince in Hiding by Anna L. Walls was one of those experiences where I truly felt transported into another world. From the very beginning, the story pulled me in with its blend of adventure, heart, and a sense of destiny that lingers with you long after you put the book down. What really stood out to me was the way Walls crafted her characters they felt authentic, flawed, and real, and I found myself rooting for them as if I personally knew them.
The pacing was steady, building tension while also giving space for moments of quiet reflection, which I really appreciated. There’s a raw honesty in her writing, almost like she poured pieces of her own life experiences into the pages, and that made the story resonate on a deeper level for me. I especially admired the balance between hardship and hope, and how even in the darkest turns, there was always this undercurrent of resilience.
What makes Prince in Hiding special is that it isn’t just a story you read it’s one you live alongside the characters. The imagery, the emotions, and the struggles all feel so tangible that you can’t help but be invested. By the time I finished, I wasn’t just satisfied with the ending; I was left reflecting on it, which is always the mark of a powerful book in my eyes.
If you love stories that carry both adventure and heart, I can’t recommend this one enough. It’s clear that Anna L. Walls writes not only with skill but with genuine passion, and that passion shines through every page.
The pacing was steady, building tension while also giving space for moments of quiet reflection, which I really appreciated. There’s a raw honesty in her writing, almost like she poured pieces of her own life experiences into the pages, and that made the story resonate on a deeper level for me. I especially admired the balance between hardship and hope, and how even in the darkest turns, there was always this undercurrent of resilience.
What makes Prince in Hiding special is that it isn’t just a story you read it’s one you live alongside the characters. The imagery, the emotions, and the struggles all feel so tangible that you can’t help but be invested. By the time I finished, I wasn’t just satisfied with the ending; I was left reflecting on it, which is always the mark of a powerful book in my eyes.
If you love stories that carry both adventure and heart, I can’t recommend this one enough. It’s clear that Anna L. Walls writes not only with skill but with genuine passion, and that passion shines through every page.
March 8, 2019
Seventeen-year-old, Sean, is growing up in New York when his life is turned upside down by a dual family tragedy, only to discover those aren't the biggest surprises. In true epic fantasy style, he learns he is the rightful king on an alternate/different world. As expected, he sets out on his journey to win back the throne from his evil, depraved Uncle.
Most readers have read a similar plot before of a hidden prince/king, but Ms. Walls brings an old genre a breath of fresh air. Her world building is unique, especially her take on magic and magic wielders. All her characters, including the smallest to the largest, have their own distinct voices, which populates the world she has created and truly brings it alive.
I particularly loved Sean. He was extremely real in his evolution to a promising monarch. I loved the fact, even though most times he's a bright intelligent young man, occasionally he slips into an immature teen he should be.
I can't wait to read the ending of this trilogy. I immediately went and bought book 2! I highly recommend this fantasy read for anyone who would like an original take in the genre. Well done, Ms. Walls.
Most readers have read a similar plot before of a hidden prince/king, but Ms. Walls brings an old genre a breath of fresh air. Her world building is unique, especially her take on magic and magic wielders. All her characters, including the smallest to the largest, have their own distinct voices, which populates the world she has created and truly brings it alive.
I particularly loved Sean. He was extremely real in his evolution to a promising monarch. I loved the fact, even though most times he's a bright intelligent young man, occasionally he slips into an immature teen he should be.
I can't wait to read the ending of this trilogy. I immediately went and bought book 2! I highly recommend this fantasy read for anyone who would like an original take in the genre. Well done, Ms. Walls.
August 18, 2025
Prince in Hiding is a thoughtful and engaging start to Anna L. Walls’ Making of a Mage King series. What struck me most is how the book balances Sean’s personal grief with the sudden discovery of a much larger destiny. Losing his parents at such a young age already makes his journey emotional, but then realizing that his identity, his family, and even his future aren’t what he believed adds another layer of complexity.
I really enjoyed following Sean as he transitioned from confusion and loss into a world of royalty and magic. The author takes time to show his growth, not just as someone learning about powers, but as a young man trying to redefine who he is. There are slower stretches, but I think they give space to process the weight of Sean’s new reality.
If you’re a fan of fantasy that mixes coming-of-age, hidden family secrets, and the classic clash with power-hungry relatives, this book is a strong start. It feels like the foundation for a much bigger story, and I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with heart.
I really enjoyed following Sean as he transitioned from confusion and loss into a world of royalty and magic. The author takes time to show his growth, not just as someone learning about powers, but as a young man trying to redefine who he is. There are slower stretches, but I think they give space to process the weight of Sean’s new reality.
If you’re a fan of fantasy that mixes coming-of-age, hidden family secrets, and the classic clash with power-hungry relatives, this book is a strong start. It feels like the foundation for a much bigger story, and I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with heart.
December 24, 2025
Prince in Hiding is a captivating coming-of-age fantasy filled with magic, mystery, and emotional depth. Sean’s journey from loss and confusion to discovering his true identity and power is both heartfelt and thrilling. With rich world-building, royal intrigue, and a hero you can’t help but root for, this book is a fantastic start to the Making of a Mage King series and leaves readers eager for more.
September 18, 2024
Anna Walls' writing style is engaging i love it
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews