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Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Adventure
Dear Reader, Please help!
If you are reading this, I have been taken prisoner, or worse. The North Pole is no longer safe, and Christmas is under attack!
The only hope I have is two brothers, Alex and Noah James. These boys have no idea the destiny that lies ahead of them, but they are the only ones who can free me and save Christmas. I don’t want to put them in danger, but with dark forces at work, I have no other choice.
Please find the James brothers and send them immediately to the North Point Ski Resort. It’s not on a map. Tell them to follow Highway 99 north—the resort will make itself known.
Make sure Noah has his crystal; he will know what I’m talking about. The crystal holds a magic so great the boys may be able to save Christmas in time.
Your friend,
Santa Claus
P.S. Tell the boys to get ready for an adventure they’ll never forget.
If you are reading this, I have been taken prisoner, or worse. The North Pole is no longer safe, and Christmas is under attack!
The only hope I have is two brothers, Alex and Noah James. These boys have no idea the destiny that lies ahead of them, but they are the only ones who can free me and save Christmas. I don’t want to put them in danger, but with dark forces at work, I have no other choice.
Please find the James brothers and send them immediately to the North Point Ski Resort. It’s not on a map. Tell them to follow Highway 99 north—the resort will make itself known.
Make sure Noah has his crystal; he will know what I’m talking about. The crystal holds a magic so great the boys may be able to save Christmas in time.
Your friend,
Santa Claus
P.S. Tell the boys to get ready for an adventure they’ll never forget.
176 pages, Hardcover
Published October 17, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 13, 2025
I read this with my almost 6 year old son and he loved it! A fun Christmas Adventure story that my son wouldn’t let me put down. We committed to reading one chapter at bedtime but he asked me to keep reading most nights and we finished in one week. To each their own - but I disagree with the 1 star review that was given about the violence. It’s a very brief, age appropriate description of characters being held as prisoners.
As a former school teacher turned “homeschooler” it made me smile to read that this began as a homeschool project. We can’t wait to read the other books and hope for more in the future.
As a former school teacher turned “homeschooler” it made me smile to read that this began as a homeschool project. We can’t wait to read the other books and hope for more in the future.
October 9, 2025
We absolutely loved this for a fun family-read aloud. This was a prefect (age-appropriate) holiday read for our four kids whose ages range from 6-11. There is a lot of action, but nothing scary. We couldn't get enough of the story, and we loved book 2 as well. We're hopeful to see a new book this Christmas season!
January 24, 2025
Good book but 90% of the book takes place over 1 day while the least 2 chapters takes place over 3 days. It is a final and the end is like a season finale cliffhanger. My daughter and I feel the execution could have been better.
December 4, 2024
Read with my son who is in fourth grade. Adorable story with great adventure and imagination. He loved it
December 25, 2025
A perfect Christmas adventure for kids and their parents! We finished reading this aloud with our Son (3) on Christmas Eve, and we all thoroughly enjoyed the story.
January 1, 2024
Title: Magic in the Mountains by T.E. Milburn
My Ratings - 4.8/5
T.E. Milburn’s “Magic in the Mountains” unfolds as a delightful and whimsical Christmas adventure that seamlessly blends magic, mystery, and the spirit of the holiday season. The story begins with an urgent plea from none other than Santa Claus himself, setting the stage for an enchanting quest led by two unsuspecting brothers, Alex and Noah James.
The narrative takes readers on a journey to the North Point Ski Resort, an elusive location that defies conventional maps. The brothers, guided by Santa’s letter, embark on a mission fraught with danger and the fate of Christmas hanging in the balance. Milburn crafts a tale that captures the imagination, infusing the plot with elements of magic and a sense of urgency.
Noah’s crystal becomes a focal point, holding a magic so potent that it holds the key to saving Christmas. As the brothers navigate the challenges and dark forces at play, readers are treated to an adventure filled with surprises, whimsy, and the warmth of the holiday spirit.
“Magic in the Mountains” not only invites readers into a fantastical world but also emphasizes the importance of courage and the unexpected heroes that emerge in the face of adversity. Milburn’s storytelling combines humor and heart, making this a perfect read for the festive season.
In conclusion, T.E. Milburn’s “Magic in the Mountains” is a charming and imaginative tale that captures the essence of Christmas magic. The quest of the James brothers unfolds with excitement, leaving readers enchanted and ready to believe in the extraordinary possibilities that the holiday season can bring.
My Ratings - 4.8/5
T.E. Milburn’s “Magic in the Mountains” unfolds as a delightful and whimsical Christmas adventure that seamlessly blends magic, mystery, and the spirit of the holiday season. The story begins with an urgent plea from none other than Santa Claus himself, setting the stage for an enchanting quest led by two unsuspecting brothers, Alex and Noah James.
The narrative takes readers on a journey to the North Point Ski Resort, an elusive location that defies conventional maps. The brothers, guided by Santa’s letter, embark on a mission fraught with danger and the fate of Christmas hanging in the balance. Milburn crafts a tale that captures the imagination, infusing the plot with elements of magic and a sense of urgency.
Noah’s crystal becomes a focal point, holding a magic so potent that it holds the key to saving Christmas. As the brothers navigate the challenges and dark forces at play, readers are treated to an adventure filled with surprises, whimsy, and the warmth of the holiday spirit.
“Magic in the Mountains” not only invites readers into a fantastical world but also emphasizes the importance of courage and the unexpected heroes that emerge in the face of adversity. Milburn’s storytelling combines humor and heart, making this a perfect read for the festive season.
In conclusion, T.E. Milburn’s “Magic in the Mountains” is a charming and imaginative tale that captures the essence of Christmas magic. The quest of the James brothers unfolds with excitement, leaving readers enchanted and ready to believe in the extraordinary possibilities that the holiday season can bring.
November 8, 2023
Magic in the mountains by Author J.E. Milburn is an exceptionally written book that talks about two brothers, Alex and Noah James who are the only hope to free and save our beloved Santa Claus as the North Pole is no longer safe, and Christmas is under attack! Follow the two brothers in their journey to the North Point.
This is such and wonderfully told and illustrated story, full of love, joy and adventure. I loved the storytelling and how it explains what's going on. When I was reading this book with my cousins, they could not stop giggling. We really enjoyed this book, and I feel it's going to be a popular reas in my household as my cousins were so engrossed in it and kept admiring the beautiful illustrations. Overall, this one is a sweet and simple short story!
This is such and wonderfully told and illustrated story, full of love, joy and adventure. I loved the storytelling and how it explains what's going on. When I was reading this book with my cousins, they could not stop giggling. We really enjoyed this book, and I feel it's going to be a popular reas in my household as my cousins were so engrossed in it and kept admiring the beautiful illustrations. Overall, this one is a sweet and simple short story!
December 29, 2023
We were gifted a copy of this book, and my kids have loved it! The story is written with such great detail. We do not believe in Santa, but my boys loved the story nevertheless and ran around the house calling each other “Noah” and “Alex.” The illustrations were just beautiful! Such a great Christmas story!
December 31, 2023
Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Adventure was a pretty good book. I also, liked the pictures in the book. I would give this book 3.5 stars.
January 14, 2024
Read this book with my 8 year old. Engaging, age appropriate, great story. Hope there is a sequel
March 3, 2024
Very cute book. Our 9, 7, and 3 year olds all enjoyed reading it out loud together.
December 8, 2025
Do you have a favorite Christmas story? “Home Alone” or “A Charlie Brown Christmas” perhaps? Or it might be a book like How the Grinch Stole Christmas or Twas the Night Before Christmas instead. If your family has a holiday tradition of watching your favorite video together or sharing the same book to get into the holiday spirit, then you may need to make room for something new on the shelf. Magic in the Mountains features two brothers who help to save Christmas on three separate occasions.
Noah and Alex are only two years apart in age and are not only brothers, but best friends. In A Christmas Adventure their family stumbles upon a ski lodge they have never seen before and the boys are pulled into a quest to help rescue Santa. The big guy has disappeared just days before Christmas! The Jewel of the Yeti begins with the family visiting a Christmas tree farm only to be attacked by a rampaging polar bear. And Curse of the Crystal brings all the plotting by the evil mastermind behind the Yuletide troubles to a final confrontation.
Each book reaches a satisfying conclusion, but the story definitely builds from one book to the next. If your family enjoys the action and thrills of holiday movies like “Red One,” “The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause,” or “The Christmas Chronicles,” then you need a copy of Magic in the Mountains.
Noah and Alex are only two years apart in age and are not only brothers, but best friends. In A Christmas Adventure their family stumbles upon a ski lodge they have never seen before and the boys are pulled into a quest to help rescue Santa. The big guy has disappeared just days before Christmas! The Jewel of the Yeti begins with the family visiting a Christmas tree farm only to be attacked by a rampaging polar bear. And Curse of the Crystal brings all the plotting by the evil mastermind behind the Yuletide troubles to a final confrontation.
Each book reaches a satisfying conclusion, but the story definitely builds from one book to the next. If your family enjoys the action and thrills of holiday movies like “Red One,” “The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause,” or “The Christmas Chronicles,” then you need a copy of Magic in the Mountains.
December 24, 2025
3.5 stars. I didn't realize this was self-published till I received the book and noticed the Amazon print-on-demand page at the back. While the margins are a little narrower than traditional publishing usually does, and the font a bit different, the book is formatted really well and comes with a full set of absolutely beautiful illustrations throughout. The story is well-written, so there's no obvious tip-off there, either. Top-notch indie work.
It's a bit shorter than I've been reading with the kids of late, which I also didn't realize at the time I ordered it. They both still enjoyed it, but I felt the story was a bit simpler than we'd gotten used to and would probably have been more suited to kids a couple of years younger than mine.
I liked the themes of working together and empathy vs jealousy that the brothers face, particularly in contrast to what happened with Santa and his brother. I wish that the climax hadn't been a physical fight between Santa and the antagonist (Santa's brother), but rather in the theme of working together had focused more on outsmarting the antagonist. It just seemed wrong that Santa would get physically aggressive.
I skipped reading the epilogue to the kids, which was the set-up to book 2 and ends on a cliffhanger. I doubt we'll be reading book 2, though mainly just because of the age the books seem best for.
It's a bit shorter than I've been reading with the kids of late, which I also didn't realize at the time I ordered it. They both still enjoyed it, but I felt the story was a bit simpler than we'd gotten used to and would probably have been more suited to kids a couple of years younger than mine.
I liked the themes of working together and empathy vs jealousy that the brothers face, particularly in contrast to what happened with Santa and his brother. I wish that the climax hadn't been a physical fight between Santa and the antagonist (Santa's brother), but rather in the theme of working together had focused more on outsmarting the antagonist. It just seemed wrong that Santa would get physically aggressive.
I skipped reading the epilogue to the kids, which was the set-up to book 2 and ends on a cliffhanger. I doubt we'll be reading book 2, though mainly just because of the age the books seem best for.
November 25, 2025
Here, we meet two brothers, Alex and Noah, and their parents, Anna and Edward James. We learn in the Prologue that Santa is in jail!
On their way to a ski vacation in Whistler, they encounter bad weather and, in making a detour, find North Point Ski Resort, run by Neethermire the elf.
While in the resort waterslide, Noah hears a strange message for the "Sons of the Crystal." Noah had never mentioned to his family that he found a "lucky crystal" on a prior family vacation.
By using Noah's crystal, and working together and with some new friends they meet along the way, the boys are tasked with helping to save Christmas. Will they save Christmas and Christmas magic in time? You'll have to read to find out!
This illustrated chapter book is a festive read for middle grade readers in your life. The themes of the Magic of Christmas, found family, and working together should resonate year-round. 4/5 stars.
I received a gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
On their way to a ski vacation in Whistler, they encounter bad weather and, in making a detour, find North Point Ski Resort, run by Neethermire the elf.
While in the resort waterslide, Noah hears a strange message for the "Sons of the Crystal." Noah had never mentioned to his family that he found a "lucky crystal" on a prior family vacation.
By using Noah's crystal, and working together and with some new friends they meet along the way, the boys are tasked with helping to save Christmas. Will they save Christmas and Christmas magic in time? You'll have to read to find out!
This illustrated chapter book is a festive read for middle grade readers in your life. The themes of the Magic of Christmas, found family, and working together should resonate year-round. 4/5 stars.
I received a gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 28, 2025
Such a wonderful holiday read, but much more than just a Christmas fantasy. This book has beautiful themes of family, courage, and sacrifice that I wasn't expecting. The world building is awesome and there was great character development. My kids loved all the action, the waterpark, the wintry setting, and all the fun and magical characters, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the story. We planned to only read one chapter per night, but finished the entire trilogy is a week. This is a must-read for families looking for a wholesome, but action-packed series. I will note that while it is centered around Christmas, this book could be enjoyed year round.
I was given a review copy, but the opinions are my own.
I was given a review copy, but the opinions are my own.
December 14, 2025
I started reading this to my 3rd grade students. I finished it on my own tonight. It was pretty good. A few twists and a total surprise at the end. Hopefully I can finish reading it to the classes this week.
December 21, 2025
My son absolutely loved this book. He loved the different perspective on how Santa came to be and the adventure that happened. He was excited for me to read this to him every night and cant wait to find out their next adventure.
December 19, 2025
A great Christmas story about a battle between good and evil; light and darkness. Keeps you on the edge of your seat.
January 8, 2024
Great book for kids... adults will enjoy as well. Read it to my 6 and 9 year olds, and they absolutely loved it. It had lots of great action and adventure which my kids loved. The author does an amazing job of painting magic into every page. The illustrations were also top notch!
October 28, 2023
"Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Adventure" by T.E. Milburn is a delightful and heartwarming Christmas tale that will whisk readers away on a magical journey filled with adventure, mystery, and the spirit of the holiday season.
The story opens with an urgent message from Santa Claus himself, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure. Santa is in peril, and it's up to two unsuspecting brothers, Alex and Noah James, to come to his rescue. The destiny of these young boys is about to be transformed, and they find themselves in the midst of a mission to save Christmas.
Milburn skillfully weaves a tale of wonder and enchantment as Alex and Noah embark on their quest. The North Pole is no longer the safe haven it once was, and the forces threatening Christmas are real and dark. With only their wits and the guidance of Santa's message, the brothers must face challenges and mysteries head-on, leading them to the North Point Ski Resort.
The author's writing captivates readers with its sense of wonder and the magic that permeates the story. The vivid descriptions and rich storytelling bring the wintry setting of the mountains to life, creating a world filled with anticipation and beauty.
One of the story's central elements is Noah's crystal, which holds incredible power. Its significance unfolds throughout the book, becoming an essential part of their journey. The magic it contains adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers engaged as they witness the boys' transformation.
"Magic in the Mountains" is a story of discovery, courage, and the enduring magic of Christmas. It reminds readers of the importance of faith and the belief in the impossible. As the James brothers navigate a world filled with surprises, they learn about the true spirit of Christmas, the value of family, and the magic that exists in the unlikeliest of places.
T.E. Milburn has created a memorable Christmas adventure that will be cherished by readers of all ages. As the James brothers set off on their journey, they discover not only their own potential but also the enduring power of the holiday season. This enchanting tale is a delightful addition to any Christmas reading list.
The story opens with an urgent message from Santa Claus himself, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure. Santa is in peril, and it's up to two unsuspecting brothers, Alex and Noah James, to come to his rescue. The destiny of these young boys is about to be transformed, and they find themselves in the midst of a mission to save Christmas.
Milburn skillfully weaves a tale of wonder and enchantment as Alex and Noah embark on their quest. The North Pole is no longer the safe haven it once was, and the forces threatening Christmas are real and dark. With only their wits and the guidance of Santa's message, the brothers must face challenges and mysteries head-on, leading them to the North Point Ski Resort.
The author's writing captivates readers with its sense of wonder and the magic that permeates the story. The vivid descriptions and rich storytelling bring the wintry setting of the mountains to life, creating a world filled with anticipation and beauty.
One of the story's central elements is Noah's crystal, which holds incredible power. Its significance unfolds throughout the book, becoming an essential part of their journey. The magic it contains adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers engaged as they witness the boys' transformation.
"Magic in the Mountains" is a story of discovery, courage, and the enduring magic of Christmas. It reminds readers of the importance of faith and the belief in the impossible. As the James brothers navigate a world filled with surprises, they learn about the true spirit of Christmas, the value of family, and the magic that exists in the unlikeliest of places.
T.E. Milburn has created a memorable Christmas adventure that will be cherished by readers of all ages. As the James brothers set off on their journey, they discover not only their own potential but also the enduring power of the holiday season. This enchanting tale is a delightful addition to any Christmas reading list.
November 28, 2023
Fun Christmas read for the family. Great story, fun characters, lots of adventure and good messages make for a wonderful holiday book.
January 6, 2025
Read to the boys but it is too scary and violent! Had to skip so much. Parents were gagged and tied up in jail, Santa is in jail, a bad guy kicks Santa in the stomach, etc. (I thought this was going to be an adventurous story with Santa and elves, but it is more violent than adventure in my opinion.)
October 12, 2023
Super book for the grands. My grandsons loved this adventure filled story. It's a fun Christmas story with a good message. I would definitely recommend to anyone with kids in their lives.
October 16, 2023
Bought for kids in my family. Book has a very cute storyline, great pics, my nephew loves it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2023
Fun Christmas read for the family. Great story, fun characters, lots of adventure and good messages make for a wonderful holiday book.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews