Touch of Kindness

by R. Loomis

Dori Livingston doesn’t want to be anything special. She’s fine staying in the background, helping her friends and supporting her single mom any way she can while living in her small Texas town. That all changes when she meets a strange girl at school who is running away. In true Dori fashion, she welcomes the girl into her home without hesitation. Little does Dori know that in helping this girl she’ll spark a chain of events that will change her life forever.After showing Dori her ability to influence people with a single touch, Dori is left with more questions than answers. The next day, Dori is captured and taken to the Otherworld, a place full of magic and fantastical creatures. She learns the girl she helped was betrothed to a prince and now Dori must fill the void, marrying His Highness in the girl's stead. Dori’s mission becomes get back home no matter what. However, getting back to the Mortalworld will be harder than she could have ever expected.

Genres: Fantasy

302 pages, Hardcover

Published June 4, 2024

About the author

Rebecca Loomis writes young adult fiction with a focus on fantasy, dystopian, and science fiction, with a hint of romance. She lives in Edmond, Oklahoma, with her husband Greg and her Goldendoodle Treble. Loomis holds a degree in music education and teaches in Edmond, writing books in her free time. Most Saturdays you can catch her drinking hot tea with six packets of honey and writing while listening to video game soundtracks and modern classical hits on loop.

“I write when the words won’t go away—like a hammering in my mind begging to be let out. For every dream, there’s a story waiting to be written, a world to be created.”

Reviews

[Keri M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A girl, unicorns and magic? Yes please. This was a unique take on finding a world of magic and realizing you’ve got a gift that can make the world better. But beware, not everyone is what they seem.

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

In R. Loomis’ “Touch of Kindness,” it all started in a quiet town in Texas. Dori’s high school days were anything but extraordinary – she blended into the background, never part of the popular crowd, never experiencing the fleeting romance of teenage love, and constantly feeling like those around her overlooked her. Dori yearned for someone who would truly see her for who she was. Then everything changed with the arrival of Charlotte, a mysterious new girl in town who would catalyze a series of astonishing events in Dori’s life.

Dori’s life took an unexpected turn when she was whisked away to a breathtaking world known as Everencia, which served as the capital of the Otherworld. There, she crossed paths with Garrett, the enigmatic Prince of Everencia, whose presence would irrevocably alter the course of her life. However, the initial excitement of her newfound adventure soon gave way to shock and dismay when she realized that returning to her familiar world in Texas was no longer an option.

Dori is forced to navigate through this captivating new world teeming with formidable decisions, each of which holds the power to shape her destiny. Join Dori as she embarks on this exhilarating journey, contemplating the enigmatic allure of Prince Garrett, pondering the possibility of finding a way back to Texas, and even discovering latent powers concealed within herself. Prepare yourself for a riveting rollercoaster of emotions. The enthralling saga of Garrett and Dori promises to imprint itself in your heart as a tale you won’t soon forget.

Author Rebecca Loomis gave Dori the gift of kindness, a quality fundamental to the narrative. Dori’s compassion, particularly towards those in need, is a defining trait that molds her character and influences the story. It is a vital aspect of how she faces life’s obstacles and confronts difficult decisions.

I found myself thoroughly engrossed by the characters Dori and Garrett. Their escapades in the Otherworld evoked a strong sense of presence, allowing me to engage with their journeys fully. Both characters exhibit outstanding traits that deeply resonate with young audiences.

“Touch of Kindness” is a captivating novel perfect for young readers and anyone who appreciates a blend of romance, mystery, and magic. I found it compelling and couldn’t set it aside. I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment, especially after the first book concluded with a thrilling cliffhanger that left me craving more.

This young adult novel merits a five-star rating for its seamless delivery of action, drama, magic, and suspense, sustained from the opening chapter to its conclusion.

[Leigh Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great story which is a great touch of a sweet love story/suspenseful and an unexpected ending! I enjoyed the book, the author is incredible

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked right away and felt so connected to the characters!

[Rebecca · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was painful. The only reason I give it 2 stars instead of 1 is the half-interesting conspiracy plot that only gets any attention in the last third of the book.

The writing is extremely YA--fine I thought, I've read better YA but it's tolerable. But it just got worse the more I read. I was skimming the most I ever skimpt just to finish.

The apparent love interest has the personality of a rock. His saccharine professions of love are gag-inducing but I can't blame little 18 year old Dorci for falling for it. He's also shown to be kind of a miserable person?? Multiple times?? Idk if this is gonna be an ACOTAR kind of situation or what but it's rough to read.

The plot is paper-thin. Dorci is understandably concerned about returning home, but somehow believes that a spontaneous college tour in the middle of the school year is an acceptable excuse. Every conflict is resolved within 2-5 paragraphs. There is filler upon filler of shallow, cheesy conversation between the main couple that sadly fails to imply any sort of real romance.

Maybe I'll hate read the next installment just to see through the conspiracy and whether Dorci really does marry this dud. Well see.

[Janet Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I NEED Dori’s spa bathroom 🤩 I enjoyed the descriptions of the setting, clothes, food, etc. It was easy to imagine I was there experiencing everything along with Dori.

Like Dori, I was initially a bit let down by her gift - it didn’t seem like much of a gift at first, especially since it’s something that’s at everyone’s disposal. But, of course, along with Dori, I came to realize just how significant the gift of kindness truly is.

We may never know the impact our words and actions have on others, but we can choose to take advantage of opportunities to love and show kindness to those around us.

I hope Dori inspires readers to practice kindness - it could be that her gift is actually so powerful that it can influence the real world 💜

[Tammy Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This a well written fantasy novel. The characters are relatable. There is a little romance, a little fantasy, and a little mystery. It is one of those books that you just get involved in and can't put it down. "I'll just read one more chapter" seemed to be my inner voice and found that I've read three more. Great book!

[Thit · Rating 3 out of 5]

This review was edited on the 17th of May, 2025.

Overall I would recommend this book to 12-15 year olds - particularly if it’s used as an introduction to the genre.

I’m an adult reader but I have rated this book how I believe my 15 year old self would have as that seemed more appropriate.

The universe and it’s magic, are the books strongest point, in my opinion. I like the concept of the gifts as well, although, I do find them mildly concerning since they can be used without the person’s knowledge, especially with how powerful their influence seems to be.
The universe as a whole is definitely something I would enjoy either in a movie or a TV show through a spin off. I did not enjoy the main characters enough to watch this story unless adapted and built upon.

Spoilers below!

The constant fawning over Dori is exhausting and undeserved for the most part. She’s judgmental, quick to make mostly baseless assumptions, she repeatedly disregards the safety of not only herself but others, even in her admittedly brave and selfless attempts to save them. If not for her gift, which she doesn’t currently understand how to use, several of her rash decisions could have ended quite horribly, making her come across reckless.
I want to attribute this to Dori being a teenager and her awareness that, despite the lack of understanding, she does have a power than can be used for good and her intention to do exactly that. But because the book treats her as if she’s the second coming of Mother Theresa, I find that quite difficult, despite how well this otherwise captures the energy of an actual teenager. (I’m serious, great job on that part).

To better make my case, I’ll give an example. I recently re-watched the first season of Shadow and Bone and I loved it as much I remembered from the first time. Alina in particular, she’s a favorite of mine. But I didn’t feel that way about Dori. This surprised me because, all in all, Alina and Dori aren’t that different.
Sure, in personality, but overall, they share quite a few similarities. The main difference, and in my opinion, what made Alina work where Dori doesn’t, is that while characters on Shadow and Bone do treat Alina like she’s a saint — because to them, she literally is (and I think Dori is being built to be something similar with the War Ender title) — they don’t know her. They don’t fawn over her because of who she is as a person. They do so because of her power and what she represents. The people who personally know Alina, don’t treat her that way. Even Inej, who definitely treats her with reverence, still treats her more like an actual person than the people Dori knows in Touch of Kindness.
The people who busy themselves singing Dori’s praises are people who know her personally. That creates an impossibly high standard and overall lofty expectations for Dori as an individual, that she doesn’t meet. People talk about her as if she’s this uniquely incredible individual, when really, she’s just kind natured and determined. Those are good traits, but they’re not mind blowing or one of a kind. Which she doesn’t have to be, but the book and it’s characters, treat her like she is. That’s what makes it exhausting to read. It’s not even just an occasional occurrence, it’s very frequent.
It just did not work for me.
I understand that Dori’s power isn’t something she can show through a light display, for example, but her speeches and her actions are not deserving of the level of praise she gets, which essentially breaks suspension of disbelief and makes her more annoying than likable because it feels fake.

Dori also doesn’t undergo much of a personal transformation. Or perhaps it just doesn’t feel that way because of the constant praise. Of course, it’s a series, so it is limited how much should be shown in the first installment, but she still needs an arc. It didn’t really feel like that was accomplished. She does change her mind about returning home to the Mortalworld, but that has more to do with outside factors than it does with Dori herself evolving as a person.

I do think watching her slowly admit to herself that she has feelings for Garret was quite sweet, though, even if the initial connection felt rushed.
She doesn’t feel very threatening, which I suppose could be intentional given her kindness and inexperience, but I do think the opposing character should react as such if that’s the case. It felt as if Primrose should have laughed her off. It would have been more consistent for both characters.
She also has some fun banter with other characters, particularly with June and Yrvis.
Both of whom, I really enjoyed and they were absolutely my favorite characters in the entire book. Yrvis wasn’t as enjoyable in the second half, but otherwise, these were genuinely well crafted characters.

A prose comment on Dori: she makes a lot of “I’m not that kind of person” type statements to herself, which is kind of jarring. It took me out of the writing a few times. Show me the kind of person she is, don’t tell me.

Garrett didn’t get a lot of personality and what he does get feels very inconsistent, especially with that ending.
He does get some good moments, he’s charming and he loves on Dori quite well. He’s a hell of a date. Pre-ending, he’s ultimately fine. Not bad, but not great.
He falls victim to the Dori of it all, in my opinion. The poor lad can’t even rule without her endless kindness, it seems.
Garrett is shown to have back bone, drive, a measured level of self confidence, a willingness to defend those who can’t defend themselves and protectiveness. That man is swimming in positive character traits. The only time his spine goes wobbly, is concerning Dori, but not in a good way. In a way where, suddenly, there are no consequences for slighting the crown prince or accusing him of mass murder.
And then the end.

Either, you’re telling me that the Garrett we came to know throughout the book is a lie. A facade. Or, you’re telling me that the Garrett we met was so deeply affected by his sister’s gift, that he lost himself entirely. OR it simply doesn't work. This part of the ending was a catastrophic error, in my opinion. I cannot believe that Dori would forgive him so quickly and I cannot believe he was truly pressured into it by his people instead of leading them by example. The way a king should.
His mother may be difficult, but if she knew what he did, I can’t possibly believe she’d be reckless enough to relinquish the throne to him at this point in time.
Garrett telling her that he can't rule without Dori was awful. Just another example of Dori being a fix-all. It's genuinely a disservice to both characters as individuals and i really hope that doesn't become codependent the way it sounds like it will.

I don’t know, perhaps I’m misunderstanding something, but I don’t see how that will possibly play out well in future installments of this series. I hope to be proven wrong, though.

I really want to see more of Primrose’s plot line. That’s the only thing truly tempting me to buy book 2 when it releases. The people she works with are quite interesting, too. So far, all the baddies are more interesting to me than the main couple, which is something I’ve never had happen before. The author did a good job making the baddies convincing and their motivations, believable.

Charlotte, Theo and The Queen are all great additions that feel well rounded (yes, even the dog). The unicorns, too. I thought they would feel corny or cheesy, but they don’t. Giving them agency was a great choice and that scene by the lake? Chef’s kiss.

I hope Charlotte returns, but I do think it was the right choice not to bring her back in this installment of the series.

Generally, I think the characters exposit too much and there’s a bit more telling than showing than I’d prefer. But there’s definitely a compelling story in here. Just for a younger demographic, which is of course, the point. The author has been really good about advertising her book to the right group, so hopefully it’ll get in front of more teens.

There are really no stakes throughout, though. Every conflict is instantly resolved, every slight is instantly forgiven. Taking in Charlotte which results in being kidnapped and not returning to the Mortalworld is the only decision Dori makes throughout the story that actually has a lasting consequence. It is thematically fitting, though, so credit for that.

Despite my criticisms, i really do hope this series sees success, even if it isn’t to my tastes. Perhaps one day, my nieces could enjoy this as a TV show of some sort. If either of them show an interest in english books as they grow older, I’ll definitely urge them to give it a read. It's not a bad book by any means, it just feels as if it doesn't live up to it's potential - mostly because it actually has potential in absolute spades.

I really want to return to this world at some point, so I'm rooting for a spin off. Would happily pay money to read that.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It all started in a quiet town in Texas. Dori's high school days were anything but extraordinary - she blended into the background, never part of the popular crowd, never experiencing the fleeting romance of teenage love, and constantly feeling like those around her overlooked her. Dori yearned for someone who would truly see her for who she was. Then, everything changed with the arrival of Charlotte, a mysterious new girl in town who would catalyze a series of astonishing events in Dori's life.
Her life took an unexpected turn when she was whisked away to a breathtaking world known as Everencia, which served as the capital of the Otherworld. There, she crossed paths with Garrett, the enigmatic Prince of Everencia, whose presence would irrevocably alter the course of her life. However, the initial excitement of her newfound adventure soon gave way to shock and dismay when she realized that returning to her familiar world in Texas was no longer an option. Dori is forced to navigate through this captivating new world teeming with formidable decisions, each of which holds the power to shape her destiny. Join Dori as she embarks on this exhilarating journey, contemplating the enigmatic allure of Prince Garrett, pondering the possibility of finding a way back to Texas, and even discovering latent powers concealed within herself. Prepare yourself for a riveting rollercoaster of emotions. The enthralling saga of Garrett and Dori promises to imprint itself in your heart as a tale you won't soon forget.
Author Rebecca Loomis gave Dori the gift of kindness, a quality fundamental to the narrative. Dori's compassion, particularly towards those in need, is a defining trait that molds her character and influences the story. It is a vital aspect of how she faces life's obstacles and confronts difficult decisions.
I am thoroughly engrossed by the characters Dori and Garrett. Their escapades in the Otherworld evoke a strong sense of presence, allowing me to engage with their journeys fully. Both characters exhibit outstanding traits that deeply resonate with young audiences.
"Touch of Kindness" is a captivating novel perfect for young readers and anyone who appreciates a blend of romance, mystery, and magic. I found it compelling and couldn't set it aside. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment, especially after the first book concluded with a thrilling cliffhanger that left me craving more.
This literary work merits a five-star rating for its seamless delivery of action, drama, magic, and suspense, sustained from the opening chapter to its conclusion.

[Kile Jarnagin]

It’s fitting that I finished reading this book on National Author’s Day, because it’s exactly the type of book that people should be supporting on a day meant to honor all of the country’s lesser known—yet no less ambitious—writers. R. Loomis is someone who deserves recognition, not just for this enjoyable novel, but also for her wonderful YouTube channel devoted to providing succinct writing tips, many of which I’ve found to be quite valuable. In fact, it’s those helpful bits of knowledge that convinced me to support her newly-published novel. Anyone who offers up the world’s most precious resource—their time—to help fellow authors in their respective writing journeys deserves to be given that time right back via the reading of their novel.

And hey, this was a fun read. I think the thing I appreciate most about this book is that it feels refreshingly small-scale for the fantasy genre. It’s filled with many of the characteristics that one comes to desire from a fantasy novel—unicorns and dragons, princes and princesses, magic and magical worlds—but it could likely flourish without all of those things, because at its core, this is a book about an individual who desperately wants to go home to the life she’s left behind; not for its comfort, but rather out of fear that she’s abandoning the ones she loves. The “lost traveler in an unfamiliar world” trope is familiar not just to fantasy but to storytelling in general, but R. Loomis uses the trope as a catalyst for her shy and self-doubting protagonist Dori to break out of her shell and discover her many gifts heretofore unrealized—most notably, the gift of kindness.

As for things I’d love to see improved with the sequel, I hope R. Loomis elongates certain moments of consequence. There are a few chapters that come to mind as being maybe a bit too concise, such as the fire rescue in Mytholde Village, Dori’s banishment to the Netherworld, and the torture of the dragon in the arena. I do understand that this is a book intended for young readers to enjoy, and the snappy nature of Loomis’s storytelling is clearly intentional. Not every fantasy novel has to have drawn-out action sequences, and as I’ve stated previously, the smaller scale is precisely what I appreciate most about this book.

[T.H. Tarvin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.8/5 stars.

I think younger me would've absolutely eaten this up. That being said, it is a cute and fun spice-free YA book with romance, adventure, and low-ish stakes. The world was rich and the magic system was unique. Kind of gave me A Darker Shade of Magic vibes with how they traveled.
I think this is perfect for a teen's first dive into fantasy. Dori is a protagonist that truly emphasizes the concept of kindness and just being an all around good person, which is something I think all of us could learn a thing or two from. She also shows you don't have to be an instant bada** to be the lead in a fantasy novel.
My only criticisms were the usage of telling versus showing (which is something harder to achieve in both first person and a first book). Dori would mention her favorite things sometimes or why she acted a certain way, when it was something that could easily be shown through her actions or words. The dialogue with her mother sometimes also felt unnatural in the way her mom would explain why or when she was doing things, but I enjoyed their love-filled dynamic.
Dori also kind of gave off a "not like other girls" vibe, and this is heavily emphasized through her describing her looks, her love of books, and such over and over again. Nothing wrong with her feeling this way about herself or having those interests as it speaks to her eventual character growth, it was just a vibe I got.
The love interest Garrett was cute. He didn't need to be brooding to be charming, and he seemed like he genuinely got roped into the whole deal and cared about her getting back. Would've loved the love story to be dragged out a little and not have them fall too fast besides Dori thinking he's cute (cause that's bound to happen).
I also would've loved to have seen Dori being a bit more resistant to the world and their forcing her to be there. I think it would've added to her character development and interactions with the world without having to downplay her being a kind person. I consider myself to be a kind person, but if I got kidnapped, I'd be a little mad.
All in all, this a good debut. I'd like to see where R. Loomis goes from here. I think she has the potential to grow as a writer!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Touch of Kindness by R. Loomis

✨ Short Summary (No Spoilers):
Dori Livingston is swept into a magical land against her will, only to discover she’s betrothed to a prince. As she searches for a way home, Dori learns she’s considered “gifted” in this new world and may have more power than she realizes.

💬 Favorite Element or Theme:
Dori’s journey is both magical and empowering. Watching her gain the confidence to speak up for herself and challenge what’s wrong was genuinely inspiring. I also really enjoyed the magic system, which felt unique. I’d love to see it expanded in a sequel!

🧡 Character & Emotional Impact:
The innocent romance between Dori and Garret gave me butterflies! It reminded me of the excitement and uncertainty of high school crushes and first kisses. I was on edge wondering whether Garret's intentions were pure or strategic—definitely kept me turning pages.

⏳ Pacing & Plot Thoughts:
While the story starts out a bit slow, the intrigue around the characters and the magical world held my attention. There’s a major turning point that totally hooked me! I couldn’t put it down. And that ending?! I’m still thinking about it. Bring on the sequel!

🌟 Overall Thoughts:
This is a perfect entry point into fantasy for younger readers (recommended 12+), with clean romance, imaginative world-building, and classic magical elements—unicorns and dragons! The tone is cozy and wholesome, making it a great pick for a relaxing weekend read.

🎯 Recommended For:
Middle grade or young teen readers who love fantasy, light romance, and magical adventures. Also ideal for anyone who enjoys a cozy, heartwarming romantasy.

Let’s connect! You can find more bookish thoughts and reviews on Instagram @bookishbyamanda

[Hannah Reeves · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a fun book to read. I absolutely loved the idea of the four worlds and the travel tokens. The story was fun and I loved the twists and the character growth! But I wasn't a huge fan of the way the romance was handled. Too much kissing and inappropriate references. I think the romance was much more lovable before it became all about kisses and fluttery feelings, then it started to seem a little superficial. Also I did not like the way Dori told the prince to never do that again when he was protecting her. I love a good prince and princess story but her attitude with him whenever he was being a protector really took me out of the story. Aside from the romance part of the book, I really enjoyed the story and can't wait to read the next one. I also loved the message about every person having value and the power of being kind.

[Finnia Makens · Rating 5 out of 5]

ok so basically I kept on seeing these videos of this YA debut authors fantasy book and her book sounded exactly what sounded good to read at the time. OMG was this book so much better than I thought. The magic system, the slow burn romance, the BALLS with the dancing I love reading about balls in books. Everything in this book kept me hooked and not wanting to put it down. I think this author is a perfect example of why readers should give debut authors a chance every now and then as they may actually really like the book. And the cliffhanger!!!! insane. Can't wait for the sequel to come out. The roamce is definitely a lot at some points but if you like romantasy with a heavy lean on romance you will like this book. The villain was predictable but its whatever.

[Brittany Arcand · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is definitely YA. If I had read this book when I was a tween or young teenager, I think I would have absolutely loved it. As a 40 something adult, it is a bit younger than what I prefer. In addition, I think it would benefit from pushing more toward actual young adults to read, instead of adults that read YA.

That said, for what it is, I think it’s absolutely lovely. It’s sweet and interesting and creative. Trying not to spoil anything, I wish there had been more about the “excitement” at the end, scattered through the middle. But I also get you’ve gotta save something for book two!

[Bef · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic!!!! It only took a couple chapters and I was hooked. I haven’t sat down to read fiction in a while and this was a great one to get me back in. I’m also blessed to personally know the author and serve her tea that fueled her writing, which makes this book even more special to me.
I appreciate her imagination and storytelling. There were times where I thought I knew what would happen next and I was totally surprised!! I also enjoy clean romance and it is harder to find these days!!!

[Alice McMurtry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Take a trip to another world with dragons and unicorns. Now, I need a new pet besides a dinosaur lol. This book after reading will make you reflect on your gifts and talents. The discussion board for this book is opened at readmybook.net/book-reviews
This book is sweet as pie with a twist. :-)
Happy Reading Everyone!!!!

[Johnni Benton · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh my gosh I was looking forward to this book ever since I found out about it! Let me tell you i was not disappointed!
it was filled with twists and turns. And the romance? top tier. I was rooting for it to work out since the beginning.
I am counting down the days until the second one gets released!

[Tabitha Tatman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good tale of doing what you know to be right, no matter the cost. Of the battle between your head and your heart. Realistic view of if someone from our modern world was suddenly in a fantasy world.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story with lots of clean fun. Dori Livingston is a character you can’t help taking to heart, along with many other interesting characters and plot twists. If you love YA, give it a read.

[Briana Bullard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read and original story! I was hooked after the first chapter!

[Anna T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Soo cool

[Annie Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!!!!! So happy I got this book, transported me into the world easy and had great pacing!

[Chloe Clementine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing, I can’t wait until the next book comes out! I definitely recommend this book it was beautifully written and I love it!

[Hailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was good. Not my favorite, but enjoyable.

I’m a bit unsure how I feel about the male lead, but I liked Dori.

Overall, I liked the story. I’ll be reading the next book whenever releases.