Kaden Collins is just a normal kid living in an abnormal world full of super-powered humans called Goldens. Although he dreams of it, Kaden doesn’t have any powers of his own. He isn’t fighting crime, saving the world, or a Hero of the Golden Academy; instead, he is bullied and forgotten about in a world where Goldens run the show. That is until his Awakening on his sixteenth birthday, when everything changes.
He quickly finds himself at the Golden Academy, a school for aspiring superheroes led by the mysterious and ancient Headmaster Fowler. Kaden is assigned to Team #22 and learns if he has what it truly takes to be a hero.
At the same time, after 100 years of hiding, the elusive and dangerous leader of the rogue Golden Sanctuary has finally returned.
The Red Demon prophecy is closer than ever to being fulfilled, and the fate of the world now rests in Kaden’s hands.
Eric Bowden is a self published fantasy/sci-fi writer and screenwriter. He focuses on fast-paced, page-turning, action-packed books with cinematic imagery and powerful, heroic moments.
Eric has been writing books since he was 12 years old, and he has always had a strong passion for storytelling his entire life. With his books, he hopes to inspire other storytellers around the world to start writing and get their stories out there.
His journey, writing methods, and inspirations are all shared with his followers through his Instagram and YouTube accounts, @ericbowdenbooks, where Eric strives to build a writing and reading community that feels like they can connect with the writer behind the words.
He received a BFA in film with an emphasis on screenwriting from the University of Utah and is currently pursuing a Master's of Screenwriting at Loyola Marymount University.
His ultimate goal is to one day teach the next generation of aspiring writers.
Eric currently resides in Los Angeles, California.
First thing. The book is amazing and I loved the unique powers and characters! The story was very thought out and I felt that it had a good pacing throughout beginning to end. I do have only one small gripe about the ending though. I felt like Kane should have been captured in the end and that would set up a good plot line for book two having maybe his friends save him or even his father. All in all I loved it and can’t wait for book two! If you need someone to read it early don’t hesitate to send it my way! 😁
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I enjoyed it a lot. Pretty good for a debut novel, my main criticism is because of the pacing, things felt like they happened too quickly. I can’t believe I’m saying this about a YouTubers book, but Bowden is now in my skip tbr to read a new release tier of authors
Loved Every Page! A Fun, Fast, and Totally Addictive Read
The Gidorian Saga: The Golden Academy is such a great read! From the very first chapter, it pulls you into a world that’s full of adventure, mystery, and just the right amount of magic. It’s one of those books that’s hard to put down — every chapter leaves you wanting to read “just one more.”
The story is exciting and full of energy, but what really makes it shine are the characters. They’re fun, relatable, and surprisingly deep. You actually care about what happens to them, and by the end, it feels like you’ve been on the journey right alongside them. The friendships, the rivalries, the twists — it all comes together in such a satisfying way.
I also loved how Bowden built the world of the Golden Academy. It feels big and alive, but not overwhelming. There’s plenty of mystery and magic, but it’s the people and their stories that keep you hooked.
Overall, The Golden Academy is everything I want in a fantasy adventure — fun, engaging, and full of heart. If you’re looking for a story that will sweep you away and keep you smiling the whole time, this is definitely the one to pick up.