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Lianna and the Hombit
A grieving girl in need of a friend. A magical creature with a secret task. Can they end the ancient curse threatening their new home?
13-year-old Lianna has lost her home, her friends, and most devastatingly, her beloved Papa. Sent to live with her uncle, Lianna is certain he will be cruel and unkind, for why else would Papa have run away when he was young? Robbed on arrival of her precious keepsakes, Lianna receives a worse-than-expected welcome from her uncle. His servants are hostile and even her grandparents seem to glare at her from their portraits over the fire.
When a magical creature resembling a small glass bird bursts into her life in a mix of sparks and fire, Lianna is eager to assist the hombit with its secret mission if it helps her return home. Which leads to Lianna undertaking a risky dive near perilous sea stacks known as ‘living rocks’.
When her dive goes wrong, she awakens a creature that seeks to rob her of her humanity.
To survive, Lianna must uncover the dark secrets of her father’s past. Now she faces a stark does she save herself or the town that rejects both her and her father?
A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost.
13-year-old Lianna has lost her home, her friends, and most devastatingly, her beloved Papa. Sent to live with her uncle, Lianna is certain he will be cruel and unkind, for why else would Papa have run away when he was young? Robbed on arrival of her precious keepsakes, Lianna receives a worse-than-expected welcome from her uncle. His servants are hostile and even her grandparents seem to glare at her from their portraits over the fire.
When a magical creature resembling a small glass bird bursts into her life in a mix of sparks and fire, Lianna is eager to assist the hombit with its secret mission if it helps her return home. Which leads to Lianna undertaking a risky dive near perilous sea stacks known as ‘living rocks’.
When her dive goes wrong, she awakens a creature that seeks to rob her of her humanity.
To survive, Lianna must uncover the dark secrets of her father’s past. Now she faces a stark does she save herself or the town that rejects both her and her father?
A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost.
- GenresFantasyMiddle Grade
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2026
8 people want to read
About the author
Valinora Troy
11 books31 followersValinora Troy is a Children’s Fantasy writer, living in Ireland.
She recently completed an MA in Creative Writing specialising in Children’s & Young Adult fiction. She has published short horror stories for adults.
She has recently served as a round 1 judge in the CYBILS award, elementary/middlegrade speculative fiction.
She recently completed an MA in Creative Writing specialising in Children’s & Young Adult fiction. She has published short horror stories for adults.
She has recently served as a round 1 judge in the CYBILS award, elementary/middlegrade speculative fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
The stunning Lianna and the Hombit by Valinora Troy, published with Scribblemór House, The Silver Key is an exciting new magical, mystery adventure for middle grade. It is full of imagination, magic, friendship, stolen jewels, and suspected murder, located in the land of Nivram, which will be familiar to fans of The Lucky Diamond Trilogy. I so enjoyed revisitiing this world and seeing familiar characters, but also focusing on 13 year old Lianna and watching her relationship flourish with the hombit. This is the perfect story for all ages to enjoy together. A magical story with stunning illustrations throughout to add to the adventure.
January 22, 2026
Blurb
A grieving girl in need of a friend. A magical creature with a secret task. Can they end the ancient curse threatening their new home?
When 13-year old Lianna, devastated by the loss of her father, is sent to the distant land of Nivram, she finds her new home and guardian every bit as horrible as she expected. When she meets a magical birdlike creature called a hombit, they strike an alliance: Lianna will help it complete its secret mission if it helps her get home.
But her plan goes awry and she accidentally awakens a creature that threatens both her and her new home. Lianna must uncover family secrets to avoid a terrible fate…
A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost.
Review
This middle grade fantasy was a pure joy to read. You just can’t help loving Lianna’s character from the very first chapter and feeling for all she is going through. The fact she has become an Orphan would lead to good discussion in a classroom, and so great to see great characters like Lianna that other children will be able to identify with. If you then add in the Hombit’s unique introduction into the story you have a great combination. I definitely know I need more Lianna and the Hombit in my life! Alongside these characters there is some great world building within this book, however I feel this could have been improved further with a map at the front of the book but then I do love a book with a map!
This is a story that slowly builds as you learn the backstory to the book, and the relationships within that book; these develop and change as the book progresses. There are so many great themes in the book which would make this a great class reader, having great depth to the story, and I can see it leading to many moral and ethical discussions. The pace in the book really picks up as the book progresses and it gets to a point midway through the story that you just can’t put the book down! Then you have to rethink your own relationship with some of the characters, just as Lianna has to.
This has to be one of the best children’s fantasy books I have read in a long time, especially due to the great depth in the story, and the tension that only builds as the book progresses. Forget children, I feel this book would appeal to any reader, of whatever age - children and adults alike. It is the first book I have read by this author but I will certainly be searching out other books by her. As you can guess from what I have written I strongly recommend this book. Just take the time to savour and devour the great story hidden within it. As I mentioned if you are a class teacher or responsible for the reading spine in a school do check out this book and share it widely.
I’d also like to complement Iseult Murphy for the great illustrations in the book.
About the Author
Valinora Troy is a children’s fantasy and horror writer from Ireland. She has a MA in Creative Writing, specialising in writing for children and young adults. She has acted as a panellist for the CYBILS awards in the middle grade speculative fiction category and served as a Reading Ambassador for Louth Libraries. Her short stories for adults have appeared in numerous publications. She is the author of The Lucky Diamond trilogy, a middle grade children’s fantasy adventure series. In 2023 she was short-listed for the Staróg Prize. When not writing, she loves visiting schools and libraries to talk to children about books and writing.
You can find out more about Valinora’s books, as well as resources for schools, and sign up to her newsletter on her website: www.valinoratroy.com.
Book Details:
Genre: Middle Grade/Fantasy
Available formats: Paperback, Hardcover, Ebook, Audio book
Publication date: 29th January 2026 by The Silver Key
No. of pages: 255
Available for pre-order on line and through local bookstores
GoodReads: Lianna and the Hombit by Valinora Troy | Goodreads
Amazon UK: Lianna and the Hombit: A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost. eBook : Troy, Valinora: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store
Amazon.com: Lianna and the Hombit: A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost. - Kindle edition by Troy, Valinora. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
A grieving girl in need of a friend. A magical creature with a secret task. Can they end the ancient curse threatening their new home?
When 13-year old Lianna, devastated by the loss of her father, is sent to the distant land of Nivram, she finds her new home and guardian every bit as horrible as she expected. When she meets a magical birdlike creature called a hombit, they strike an alliance: Lianna will help it complete its secret mission if it helps her get home.
But her plan goes awry and she accidentally awakens a creature that threatens both her and her new home. Lianna must uncover family secrets to avoid a terrible fate…
A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost.
Review
This middle grade fantasy was a pure joy to read. You just can’t help loving Lianna’s character from the very first chapter and feeling for all she is going through. The fact she has become an Orphan would lead to good discussion in a classroom, and so great to see great characters like Lianna that other children will be able to identify with. If you then add in the Hombit’s unique introduction into the story you have a great combination. I definitely know I need more Lianna and the Hombit in my life! Alongside these characters there is some great world building within this book, however I feel this could have been improved further with a map at the front of the book but then I do love a book with a map!
This is a story that slowly builds as you learn the backstory to the book, and the relationships within that book; these develop and change as the book progresses. There are so many great themes in the book which would make this a great class reader, having great depth to the story, and I can see it leading to many moral and ethical discussions. The pace in the book really picks up as the book progresses and it gets to a point midway through the story that you just can’t put the book down! Then you have to rethink your own relationship with some of the characters, just as Lianna has to.
This has to be one of the best children’s fantasy books I have read in a long time, especially due to the great depth in the story, and the tension that only builds as the book progresses. Forget children, I feel this book would appeal to any reader, of whatever age - children and adults alike. It is the first book I have read by this author but I will certainly be searching out other books by her. As you can guess from what I have written I strongly recommend this book. Just take the time to savour and devour the great story hidden within it. As I mentioned if you are a class teacher or responsible for the reading spine in a school do check out this book and share it widely.
I’d also like to complement Iseult Murphy for the great illustrations in the book.
About the Author
Valinora Troy is a children’s fantasy and horror writer from Ireland. She has a MA in Creative Writing, specialising in writing for children and young adults. She has acted as a panellist for the CYBILS awards in the middle grade speculative fiction category and served as a Reading Ambassador for Louth Libraries. Her short stories for adults have appeared in numerous publications. She is the author of The Lucky Diamond trilogy, a middle grade children’s fantasy adventure series. In 2023 she was short-listed for the Staróg Prize. When not writing, she loves visiting schools and libraries to talk to children about books and writing.
You can find out more about Valinora’s books, as well as resources for schools, and sign up to her newsletter on her website: www.valinoratroy.com.
Book Details:
Genre: Middle Grade/Fantasy
Available formats: Paperback, Hardcover, Ebook, Audio book
Publication date: 29th January 2026 by The Silver Key
No. of pages: 255
Available for pre-order on line and through local bookstores
GoodReads: Lianna and the Hombit by Valinora Troy | Goodreads
Amazon UK: Lianna and the Hombit: A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost. eBook : Troy, Valinora: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store
Amazon.com: Lianna and the Hombit: A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost. - Kindle edition by Troy, Valinora. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lianna and the Hombit is a thoughtful middle grade fantasy that combines adventure with an honest exploration of grief and friendship. Lianna is a believable and relatable protagonist, and her emotional journey feels handled with care.
The hombit is a memorable companion, adding warmth and mystery, while the fantasy setting is clear and not too complex. The story moves at a steady pace and balances its magical elements well with its emotional themes.
A solid choice for middle grade readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with heart.
The hombit is a memorable companion, adding warmth and mystery, while the fantasy setting is clear and not too complex. The story moves at a steady pace and balances its magical elements well with its emotional themes.
A solid choice for middle grade readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with heart.
November 30, 2025
Lianna is an orphan, and after her father’s death she is sent to live with her uncle, a judge. A Hombit—a mysterious little creature—appears, seemingly on an important mission he can’t quite remember. Lianna hopes his mission is to bring her some comfort during this difficult time. Soon, she learns that her family’s jewels have gone missing. Can Lianna uncover the truth behind the mystery?
I really enjoyed this story. It had a nice balance of suspense and mystery, and I think it was written well for a young audience. I loved the cute little illustrations!
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
I really enjoyed this story. It had a nice balance of suspense and mystery, and I think it was written well for a young audience. I loved the cute little illustrations!
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
January 20, 2026
A lovely middle grade fantasy adventure, perfect for readers aged 9 years and above. You can read my full review on my blog at this link: https://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home...
November 25, 2025
I loved this book. It is mysterious, heartwarming, and the heart of it, a story of healing and friendship. And now I desperately want a Hombit. Readers will devour this wonderful book!
November 19, 2025
When her father dies, thirteen-year-old Lianna’s home is sold off to pay his debts, and she has to leave behind everything she knows in Robunda and travel six weeks across the sea to Lowdar in Nivram to live with an uncle she’s never met. At her rich uncle’s home, she meets a hombit, a glass bird that comes from the flames of a fireplace. Finding herself an unwanted nuisance in Judge Sambru’s house, and hating the cold, rainy and overcrowded city, Lianna strikes a bargain with the hombit: she will help the creature complete its secret mission, if it in turn will help her return to Robunda once it is complete.
However, she thinks she may have a chance to return sooner. Overhearing a group at the harbour discussing an illegal dive to retrieve special stones near the living rocks, Lianna volunteers: she’s a talented diver, and just one successful dive will earn her the money she needs to pay for passage home on a ship. But the dive goes wrong, waking the living rocks and leaving Lianna with two mysteries to solve: how are the special stones connected to her father’s jewel business before he fled Lowdar for Robunda twenty-five years ago, and why is she now hearing the living rocks speaking directly into her mind?
When Lianna discovers the connection, she realises she may be too late – the living rocks are turning her slowly to stone. Her only chance to save herself might be to flee immediately to Robunda, but in abandoning the city, she would be leaving its defenceless people to face the terrible wrath of the living rocks. With the hombit’s help, can Lianna find a way to save both herself and the city?
I was lucky enough to be be able to read an advance copy of this book before publication, and what an intriguing and imaginative adventure this was! I’ve read some of Valinora Troy’s other wonderful books for the same age group, so I knew I was in for a treat with this one, but I didn’t know when I started the first page that this was going to be my runaway favourite of them all! One of the standout features of this story is the way that it immerses readers in atmospheric settings that seem so real you almost feel you’re being drawn right into the page. Lianna’s arrival in grim-looking Lowdar and her meeting with the young thieves starts the story off with a sense of tension and creates an undercurrent of menace that runs all the way through to the end. There are lovely light touches – Lianna’s friendship with the hombit, her memories of her friends in Robunda, and her bittersweet memories of her father – but it’s the hints of hidden secrets and air of mystery that will have readers holding their breath at certain key scenes! I’m a big fan of books that have just the right level of creepiness for middle-grade readers, and the spooky image of the living rocks coming closer and closer to the island until they are on the beach and heading to people’s houses gave me the shivers in the best possible way.
The beating heart of this mystery story is Lianna’s love for her father and her fond memories of her faraway friends. Her sadness at losing her father and leaving her friends behind is palpable, and makes her friendship with the hombit – the only living creature who seems to care about her in Lowdar – all the more touching. The hombit is a fantastic character – full of unintentionally witty phrases and inventive language, and loyal and self-sacrificing in its desire to help Lianna at any cost to itself. The ending really did tug on my heartstrings – I wasn’t sure what Lianna would choose to do, but (no spoilers!) I applauded her decision and bravery despite feeling sad for her at the same time. For fans of Valinora’s Troy’s Lucky Diamond trilogy, there were also exciting hints at the end of the story about the origins of the magical objects that the young protagonists in that trilogy inherit. Although this story is wrapped up perfectly with a really satisfying ending, those little hints will definitely leave children who haven’t yet read those books wanting to find out more!
In summary, this is a highly recommended read for fans of middle-grade stories with a main course of mystery and imagination, and a side order of friendship and bravery, and a sprinkle of magic on top. One for readers to savour regardless of their age, and a must-have for school libraries to help entice children off their screens and to immerse them in an exciting literary world of fantasy and adventure.
However, she thinks she may have a chance to return sooner. Overhearing a group at the harbour discussing an illegal dive to retrieve special stones near the living rocks, Lianna volunteers: she’s a talented diver, and just one successful dive will earn her the money she needs to pay for passage home on a ship. But the dive goes wrong, waking the living rocks and leaving Lianna with two mysteries to solve: how are the special stones connected to her father’s jewel business before he fled Lowdar for Robunda twenty-five years ago, and why is she now hearing the living rocks speaking directly into her mind?
When Lianna discovers the connection, she realises she may be too late – the living rocks are turning her slowly to stone. Her only chance to save herself might be to flee immediately to Robunda, but in abandoning the city, she would be leaving its defenceless people to face the terrible wrath of the living rocks. With the hombit’s help, can Lianna find a way to save both herself and the city?
I was lucky enough to be be able to read an advance copy of this book before publication, and what an intriguing and imaginative adventure this was! I’ve read some of Valinora Troy’s other wonderful books for the same age group, so I knew I was in for a treat with this one, but I didn’t know when I started the first page that this was going to be my runaway favourite of them all! One of the standout features of this story is the way that it immerses readers in atmospheric settings that seem so real you almost feel you’re being drawn right into the page. Lianna’s arrival in grim-looking Lowdar and her meeting with the young thieves starts the story off with a sense of tension and creates an undercurrent of menace that runs all the way through to the end. There are lovely light touches – Lianna’s friendship with the hombit, her memories of her friends in Robunda, and her bittersweet memories of her father – but it’s the hints of hidden secrets and air of mystery that will have readers holding their breath at certain key scenes! I’m a big fan of books that have just the right level of creepiness for middle-grade readers, and the spooky image of the living rocks coming closer and closer to the island until they are on the beach and heading to people’s houses gave me the shivers in the best possible way.
The beating heart of this mystery story is Lianna’s love for her father and her fond memories of her faraway friends. Her sadness at losing her father and leaving her friends behind is palpable, and makes her friendship with the hombit – the only living creature who seems to care about her in Lowdar – all the more touching. The hombit is a fantastic character – full of unintentionally witty phrases and inventive language, and loyal and self-sacrificing in its desire to help Lianna at any cost to itself. The ending really did tug on my heartstrings – I wasn’t sure what Lianna would choose to do, but (no spoilers!) I applauded her decision and bravery despite feeling sad for her at the same time. For fans of Valinora’s Troy’s Lucky Diamond trilogy, there were also exciting hints at the end of the story about the origins of the magical objects that the young protagonists in that trilogy inherit. Although this story is wrapped up perfectly with a really satisfying ending, those little hints will definitely leave children who haven’t yet read those books wanting to find out more!
In summary, this is a highly recommended read for fans of middle-grade stories with a main course of mystery and imagination, and a side order of friendship and bravery, and a sprinkle of magic on top. One for readers to savour regardless of their age, and a must-have for school libraries to help entice children off their screens and to immerse them in an exciting literary world of fantasy and adventure.
January 25, 2026
Lianna and the Hombit is a wonderfully magical, mesmerising adventure – a story of discovery, of hope and of finding friendship and family that completely enchanted me from start to finish.
13-year-old Lianna is heartbroken at the loss of her father, leaving her an orphan, so she finds herself sent on a long, overseas journey to the land of Nivram to stay with her uncle. Once there, she takes a mail coach to the town of Lowdar, where her father once lived, and where she is expecting to be met by her uncle, Judge Sambru. When he doesn’t arrive, Lianna makes her own way to his mansion where she is met by his unwelcoming housekeeper and butler and sent to the library to wait for him.
Whilst putting some wood on the fire, it flares unexpectedly and reveals a small glass bird on a charred log but, imagine Lianna’s surprise, when this creature talks to her. It reveals that it is a hombit, a messenger, who has been sent on a secret mission.
After meeting her uncle, she feels even more unwelcome and is determined to go home but needs money for the boat fare. The only item of value that she has is a ruby ring, which was owned by her father, so she decides to take it to a pawnbroker who accuses her of being a thief as the Sambru jewellery collection was stolen years ago. Lianna and the hombit decide to help each other in their missions. Can they discover the truth behind the disappearance of the jewels? And, could the ruby be the key to reawakening a family curse that brings danger to Lianna and all those living in Lowdar?
I absolutely loved this action-packed, exciting adventure which kept me eagerly turning pages as I was caught up in the danger, the tension, the secrets and revelations, many of which genuinely took me by surprise! I found the ‘villain’ (I don’t want to say more for fear of spoilers) spine-tingingly scary as the level of threat and danger for Lianna, and the town, increased. I really enjoyed following Lianna as she discovers more about her family history and the tragedy that had unwittingly been brought to Lowdar, a fate that seems destined to be repeated.
Lianna is an incredibly likeable young girl who is grieving the loss of her beloved father whilst feeling unwelcomed in her new home. She shows incredible courage and determination in her mission to find the truth behind the family curse, and break it, before it brings more destruction to Lowdar. And what can I say about the hombit? What an absolutely adorable, magical creature: kind, encouraging and the most wonderfully loyal friend when friendship is desperately needed.
Both the full-page illustrations and vignettes are absolutely stunning and really complement the sense of adventure and mystery in the story.
An adventure that sparkles with magic, mystery and friendship, perfect for young readers of 9+.
13-year-old Lianna is heartbroken at the loss of her father, leaving her an orphan, so she finds herself sent on a long, overseas journey to the land of Nivram to stay with her uncle. Once there, she takes a mail coach to the town of Lowdar, where her father once lived, and where she is expecting to be met by her uncle, Judge Sambru. When he doesn’t arrive, Lianna makes her own way to his mansion where she is met by his unwelcoming housekeeper and butler and sent to the library to wait for him.
Whilst putting some wood on the fire, it flares unexpectedly and reveals a small glass bird on a charred log but, imagine Lianna’s surprise, when this creature talks to her. It reveals that it is a hombit, a messenger, who has been sent on a secret mission.
After meeting her uncle, she feels even more unwelcome and is determined to go home but needs money for the boat fare. The only item of value that she has is a ruby ring, which was owned by her father, so she decides to take it to a pawnbroker who accuses her of being a thief as the Sambru jewellery collection was stolen years ago. Lianna and the hombit decide to help each other in their missions. Can they discover the truth behind the disappearance of the jewels? And, could the ruby be the key to reawakening a family curse that brings danger to Lianna and all those living in Lowdar?
I absolutely loved this action-packed, exciting adventure which kept me eagerly turning pages as I was caught up in the danger, the tension, the secrets and revelations, many of which genuinely took me by surprise! I found the ‘villain’ (I don’t want to say more for fear of spoilers) spine-tingingly scary as the level of threat and danger for Lianna, and the town, increased. I really enjoyed following Lianna as she discovers more about her family history and the tragedy that had unwittingly been brought to Lowdar, a fate that seems destined to be repeated.
Lianna is an incredibly likeable young girl who is grieving the loss of her beloved father whilst feeling unwelcomed in her new home. She shows incredible courage and determination in her mission to find the truth behind the family curse, and break it, before it brings more destruction to Lowdar. And what can I say about the hombit? What an absolutely adorable, magical creature: kind, encouraging and the most wonderfully loyal friend when friendship is desperately needed.
Both the full-page illustrations and vignettes are absolutely stunning and really complement the sense of adventure and mystery in the story.
An adventure that sparkles with magic, mystery and friendship, perfect for young readers of 9+.
January 30, 2026
This book is absolutely adorable. May I have a hombit, too, please?
LIanna is on a difficult journey. She is meeting her uncle for the first time. She needs a place to live after her father's passing.
Her welcome in Lowdar is as the
cold and unforgiving.
I know we are aiming for the age 10-12 here, still, I had a very loving laugh when I saw the cutest of drawings of a delicate bantimouse.
Now, all is not as it seems in Lowdar, and my autocorrect wants to change my hombit to a hobbit.😂
You see, in the fireplace of the beautiful library, and bird appear... one made of glass.
🔹️
"Do you think it is possible to forget how to fly?"
🔹️
Here is where the real adventure starts, with a hombit, a friend, who she hopes will help her to leave the cold place that is Lowdar.
There are serious moments, still, that hombit seeps the cuteness in, and my heart warms up five degrees. With a sprinkle of magic, we dive, we soar, we stumble, and our hombit would say that it was fun. 😊
🔹️
"Of course not. I'm a hombit. Hombits never get into trouble."
🔹️
If I had a child around the age for this, I would already have pre-ordered this wonderful book, as it is not out until the 29th.😊
May the sun shine on your wings, my lovelies.
LIanna is on a difficult journey. She is meeting her uncle for the first time. She needs a place to live after her father's passing.
Her welcome in Lowdar is as the
cold and unforgiving.
I know we are aiming for the age 10-12 here, still, I had a very loving laugh when I saw the cutest of drawings of a delicate bantimouse.
Now, all is not as it seems in Lowdar, and my autocorrect wants to change my hombit to a hobbit.😂
You see, in the fireplace of the beautiful library, and bird appear... one made of glass.
🔹️
"Do you think it is possible to forget how to fly?"
🔹️
Here is where the real adventure starts, with a hombit, a friend, who she hopes will help her to leave the cold place that is Lowdar.
There are serious moments, still, that hombit seeps the cuteness in, and my heart warms up five degrees. With a sprinkle of magic, we dive, we soar, we stumble, and our hombit would say that it was fun. 😊
🔹️
"Of course not. I'm a hombit. Hombits never get into trouble."
🔹️
If I had a child around the age for this, I would already have pre-ordered this wonderful book, as it is not out until the 29th.😊
May the sun shine on your wings, my lovelies.
February 4, 2026
What I Did Like:
+This won’t affect my rating but the audiobook is beautifully done! Perfect narrator for the story.
+LOVED Lianna right away. She’s a great character and you just want to scoop her up and protect her! She's also incredibly realistic. She's not perfect, she's a bit stubborn, and yet she's a great friend.
+The Hombit is such a fun addition to the story. A little magic, a little chaos, and a lot of heart. I would read an entire series about hombits, for sure!
+The mystery of the jewels was well written and pulls you into the story well. I found myself curious what happened and the solution works!
Who Should Read This One:
-Young fantasy readers who like original creatures and magic items! This one is packed with plenty of satisfying fantasy elements.
-Young mystery readers who want something to unpack and chase the clues of. Lianna has plenty of secrets to unravel with you.
My Rating: 5 Stars
The blend of fantasy elements with a fun mystery works without harming any of the elements. Recommended for sure!
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2026/02/...
+This won’t affect my rating but the audiobook is beautifully done! Perfect narrator for the story.
+LOVED Lianna right away. She’s a great character and you just want to scoop her up and protect her! She's also incredibly realistic. She's not perfect, she's a bit stubborn, and yet she's a great friend.
+The Hombit is such a fun addition to the story. A little magic, a little chaos, and a lot of heart. I would read an entire series about hombits, for sure!
+The mystery of the jewels was well written and pulls you into the story well. I found myself curious what happened and the solution works!
Who Should Read This One:
-Young fantasy readers who like original creatures and magic items! This one is packed with plenty of satisfying fantasy elements.
-Young mystery readers who want something to unpack and chase the clues of. Lianna has plenty of secrets to unravel with you.
My Rating: 5 Stars
The blend of fantasy elements with a fun mystery works without harming any of the elements. Recommended for sure!
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2026/02/...
February 26, 2026
Lianna and the Hombit is such a magical story. I instantly connected with Lianna and felt her heartbreak. After the loss of her father, she’s forced to move to a new island to live with her uncle. It seems like everything that can go wrong, does. Just when her world feels completely upside down, she meets the Hombit, a magical creature who changes everything. Honestly, I found myself wishing I had a friend like the Hombit in my own life!
The story is layered with mystery, and for every question answered, another one unfolds. I couldn’t put it down even when sleep was calling me. From the captivating creatures to the enchanting world and unforgettable, lovable characters, this book truly shines.
Even though it’s set in the world of The Lucky Diamond series, it stands beautifully on its own. You don’t need to have read the series to enjoy it, but readers will delight in a subtle crossover that feels like a special reward. 5 stars
The story is layered with mystery, and for every question answered, another one unfolds. I couldn’t put it down even when sleep was calling me. From the captivating creatures to the enchanting world and unforgettable, lovable characters, this book truly shines.
Even though it’s set in the world of The Lucky Diamond series, it stands beautifully on its own. You don’t need to have read the series to enjoy it, but readers will delight in a subtle crossover that feels like a special reward. 5 stars
February 27, 2026
First of all huge apologies for missing my review date back in January, I had this down in my diary for March in error, completely my fault.
Now onto the good part, the review.
Liliana and the Hombit is a magical, fantastical, immersive read full of atmosphere, hope and the important message to keep going even when all appears lost.
It's a story of friendship, mystical creatures, hope and resilience, but it also has it's darker moments too.
It's a thoughtful read and so very heart warming.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Now onto the good part, the review.
Liliana and the Hombit is a magical, fantastical, immersive read full of atmosphere, hope and the important message to keep going even when all appears lost.
It's a story of friendship, mystical creatures, hope and resilience, but it also has it's darker moments too.
It's a thoughtful read and so very heart warming.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
November 10, 2025
When a 13 year old girl loses her father, she's sent to a far away city away from her home to live with her uncle. But the city is nothing like she's expected. After she's robbed just getting off the train, she loses her only worldly possessions, and the things that her father gave her. This is just the start of her problems however, because after this she meets her uncle, her fathers brother, who seemingly wants nothing to do with her. Cold and cruel, she's by herself in this new world she finds herself in, and she must find her own way and figure out why her father left in the first place.
Check out my full review here! Posted January 29th 2026.
https://mutatedlibrary.wordpress.com/...
Check out my full review here! Posted January 29th 2026.
https://mutatedlibrary.wordpress.com/...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a sweet and heartwarming and wholesome and magical book!! ^^ The book follows 13-year-old Lianna after the death of her father who is sent to live with her uncle in the unfamiliar (and unwelcoming) town of Lowdar. When she meets the hombit, a magical bird made of glass, who she agrees to assist it with its secret mission if it helps her to return home. But when she takes a risky dive near the perilous living rocks (a dive that goes terribly wrong), she awakens them and now must untangle the dark secrets of her father's past and, with the help of the hombit, save herself and the town of Lowdar.
I absolutely loved this book! (I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author, so many thanks to Valinora Troy for doing so!) Lianna's character, the amount of detail put into the world, the gorgeous illustrations throughout, the odd but delightful animals sprinkled throughout... (The bantimouse!! It sounds like such a sweet creature!) It just makes for such a delightful book!!
I really do think the hombit may be my favorite character throughout the story. It is such a fascinating creature -- a glass bird that has magic and fire that's sent on a mission -- and I loved how kind and caring it was and how it was there for Lianna all throughout the story. I do believe it's one of the creatures I would very much like to meet in real life!!
Overall, the characters in the story are amazing! They all have such depth and personality, and I loved Lianna's character so much. Seeing all of her struggles as she dealt with the loss of her father and all the struggles of having to leave her homeland, Robunda, to live in the new, unfamiliar town of Lowdar was more relatable than I can really say. While I don't have a dark family past (at least, I should hope not!) or a magical hombit following me around, I was dealing with a very difficult move and friendship breakup in late summer, and so I greatly appreciated seeing a heroine with the same struggles.
The writing style of this book was wonderful!! The writing and the plot flowed smoothly, and I loved how well-written the descriptions of Lowdar were!! I really felt like I was right there with Lianna through it all. And the plot twists towards the end....
Wow.
I wasn't expecting any of them!!! And the Living Rocks were so eerie, yet they're one of my favorite parts of the book. I must admit, the climax and the ending of Chapter 29 brought me to near tears. I so felt for Lianna and what had happened to her!! And though I can't say more for fear of spoilers, it was just such a wonderful story!
I also loved the illustrations scattered throughout the story!! There are smaller illustrations of the animals mentioned, as well as gorgeous full page ones that really bring the story to life!!!
Lianna and the Hombit is also a prequel to the The Lucky Diamond trilogy (they can each be read separately though!), and I absolutely loved seeing the town of Lowdar as it was back then, as well as getting to see some of the characters from The Lucky Diamond!!!! (I love it whenever we get to see characters during prequels!) We also get to find out a bit more about the magic flute from The Lucky Diamond, which I loved!!
Overall, this book is so magical and heartwarming, and I absolutely love the world, the characters, and all the adventures Lianna went on!! I highly recommend this book for anyone who's looking for a unique MG fantasy with magical rocks, twists and family secrets! Five out of five stars from me!
I absolutely loved this book! (I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author, so many thanks to Valinora Troy for doing so!) Lianna's character, the amount of detail put into the world, the gorgeous illustrations throughout, the odd but delightful animals sprinkled throughout... (The bantimouse!! It sounds like such a sweet creature!) It just makes for such a delightful book!!
I really do think the hombit may be my favorite character throughout the story. It is such a fascinating creature -- a glass bird that has magic and fire that's sent on a mission -- and I loved how kind and caring it was and how it was there for Lianna all throughout the story. I do believe it's one of the creatures I would very much like to meet in real life!!
Overall, the characters in the story are amazing! They all have such depth and personality, and I loved Lianna's character so much. Seeing all of her struggles as she dealt with the loss of her father and all the struggles of having to leave her homeland, Robunda, to live in the new, unfamiliar town of Lowdar was more relatable than I can really say. While I don't have a dark family past (at least, I should hope not!) or a magical hombit following me around, I was dealing with a very difficult move and friendship breakup in late summer, and so I greatly appreciated seeing a heroine with the same struggles.
The writing style of this book was wonderful!! The writing and the plot flowed smoothly, and I loved how well-written the descriptions of Lowdar were!! I really felt like I was right there with Lianna through it all. And the plot twists towards the end....
Wow.
I wasn't expecting any of them!!! And the Living Rocks were so eerie, yet they're one of my favorite parts of the book. I must admit, the climax and the ending of Chapter 29 brought me to near tears. I so felt for Lianna and what had happened to her!! And though I can't say more for fear of spoilers, it was just such a wonderful story!
I also loved the illustrations scattered throughout the story!! There are smaller illustrations of the animals mentioned, as well as gorgeous full page ones that really bring the story to life!!!
Lianna and the Hombit is also a prequel to the The Lucky Diamond trilogy (they can each be read separately though!), and I absolutely loved seeing the town of Lowdar as it was back then, as well as getting to see some of the characters from The Lucky Diamond!!!! (I love it whenever we get to see characters during prequels!) We also get to find out a bit more about the magic flute from The Lucky Diamond, which I loved!!
Overall, this book is so magical and heartwarming, and I absolutely love the world, the characters, and all the adventures Lianna went on!! I highly recommend this book for anyone who's looking for a unique MG fantasy with magical rocks, twists and family secrets! Five out of five stars from me!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Lianna and the Hombit is such an addictive magical read and the depth of characterisation and the mystery within its pages only adds to its appeal. Lianna is a brilliantly likeable character. Grieving the loss of her beloved father, Lianna is sent from the only home she's known to the cold, unwelcoming home of her Uncle, where she discovers the Hombit; a magical creature that has been sent by The Guardians. Together the two unravel the dark past of Lianna's family and that of the town. As each page is turned, we learn more about Lianna's family, but also feel the ominous presence of those that threaten the townsfolk: (without giving too much away, they did remind me an awful lot of the weeping angels in an episode of Dr Who) and their threat is quite spine chillingly scary. Without doubt Lianna and the Hombit is a beautifully crafted story and the gentle Hombit has captured my reader heart.
From the Blurb:
A grieving girl in need of a friend. A magical creature with a secret task. Can they end the ancient curse threatening their new home?
When 13-year old Lianna, devastated by the loss of her father, is sent to the distant land of Nivram, she finds her new home and guardian every bit as horrible as she expected. When she meets a magical birdlike creature called a hombit, they strike an alliance: Lianna will help it complete its secret mission if it helps her get home.
But her plan goes awry and she accidentally awakens a creature that threatens both her and her new home. Lianna must uncover family secrets to avoid a terrible fate…
A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost.
About the Author:
Valinora Troy is a children’s fantasy and horror writer from Ireland. She has a MA in Creative Writing, specialising in writing for children and young adults. She has acted as a panellist for the CYBILS awards in the middle grade speculative fiction category and served as a Reading Ambassador for Louth Libraries. Her short stories for adults have appeared in numerous publications. She is the author of The Lucky Diamond trilogy, a middle grade children’s fantasy adventure series. In 2023 she was short-listed for the Staróg Prize. When not writing, she loves visiting schools and libraries to talk to children about books and writing.
This is a story that needs to be shared and whilst its target audience is independent readers 9+, this would also be a beautiful bedtime read for LKS2 readers. In a world where young readers are bombarded by the realities of life, Lianna and the Hombit provides utter escapism and is utterly captivating. I highly recommend this imaginative magical read. I absolutely loved it. Thank you to #WriteReads and Valinora Troy for an early read in exchange for my honest review.
From the Blurb:
A grieving girl in need of a friend. A magical creature with a secret task. Can they end the ancient curse threatening their new home?
When 13-year old Lianna, devastated by the loss of her father, is sent to the distant land of Nivram, she finds her new home and guardian every bit as horrible as she expected. When she meets a magical birdlike creature called a hombit, they strike an alliance: Lianna will help it complete its secret mission if it helps her get home.
But her plan goes awry and she accidentally awakens a creature that threatens both her and her new home. Lianna must uncover family secrets to avoid a terrible fate…
A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost.
About the Author:
Valinora Troy is a children’s fantasy and horror writer from Ireland. She has a MA in Creative Writing, specialising in writing for children and young adults. She has acted as a panellist for the CYBILS awards in the middle grade speculative fiction category and served as a Reading Ambassador for Louth Libraries. Her short stories for adults have appeared in numerous publications. She is the author of The Lucky Diamond trilogy, a middle grade children’s fantasy adventure series. In 2023 she was short-listed for the Staróg Prize. When not writing, she loves visiting schools and libraries to talk to children about books and writing.
This is a story that needs to be shared and whilst its target audience is independent readers 9+, this would also be a beautiful bedtime read for LKS2 readers. In a world where young readers are bombarded by the realities of life, Lianna and the Hombit provides utter escapism and is utterly captivating. I highly recommend this imaginative magical read. I absolutely loved it. Thank you to #WriteReads and Valinora Troy for an early read in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A rich, fantasy world meets mystery and an edge of tension to create a grabbing read.
When Lianna's father dies, she's forced to move far away to live with an uncle she never met. The wealthy uncle and his staff aren't kind, but she finds a friend in a magical bird called a hombit. In hopes of returning home, she decides to use her talents in diving to secretly gather special stones, but this takes her near the dangerous Living Stones. Not only can she strangely hear these stones speaking in her head, but she discovers that they are on the move to destroy the town. Somehow, these stones are connected to her father's past as well. But worst of all, they are slowly turning her to stone, too. Now, she needs to make the choice between saving herself or staying to rescue the town. And all of this while solving the mysteries behind her father's past.
This is quite the adventure, and the author has managed to weave together a very layered and rich world. While Lianna already has her hands full with simply coming to terms with her unkind uncle and the hombit, who has its own agenda, the plot only begins there. New twists and turns continually arise as the situation grows more complex and dire. And each time, it takes on a fresh and unique direction. This keeps the tale grabbing and makes it hard to see what is coming next.
Plenty of emotions come into play as the plot thickens. There's a bitter-sweet sense of family as Lianna misses her father and digs into the secrets of his past. Then, there's the odd friendship which forms between her and the hombit. Lianna is forced, time and again, to push the borders of her own capabilities and let sheer determination drive her forward. There's also plenty of fear as she faces the Living Stones and her own pending doom.
It's an exciting read with tons to offer and is sure to delight more than just fantasy fans.
When Lianna's father dies, she's forced to move far away to live with an uncle she never met. The wealthy uncle and his staff aren't kind, but she finds a friend in a magical bird called a hombit. In hopes of returning home, she decides to use her talents in diving to secretly gather special stones, but this takes her near the dangerous Living Stones. Not only can she strangely hear these stones speaking in her head, but she discovers that they are on the move to destroy the town. Somehow, these stones are connected to her father's past as well. But worst of all, they are slowly turning her to stone, too. Now, she needs to make the choice between saving herself or staying to rescue the town. And all of this while solving the mysteries behind her father's past.
This is quite the adventure, and the author has managed to weave together a very layered and rich world. While Lianna already has her hands full with simply coming to terms with her unkind uncle and the hombit, who has its own agenda, the plot only begins there. New twists and turns continually arise as the situation grows more complex and dire. And each time, it takes on a fresh and unique direction. This keeps the tale grabbing and makes it hard to see what is coming next.
Plenty of emotions come into play as the plot thickens. There's a bitter-sweet sense of family as Lianna misses her father and digs into the secrets of his past. Then, there's the odd friendship which forms between her and the hombit. Lianna is forced, time and again, to push the borders of her own capabilities and let sheer determination drive her forward. There's also plenty of fear as she faces the Living Stones and her own pending doom.
It's an exciting read with tons to offer and is sure to delight more than just fantasy fans.
February 5, 2026
Thirteen-year-old Lianna becomes an orphan and has to go live with her spite-filled uncle in a bleak town in a dreary house in a dusty attic. And the household staff despise her. But Lianna is a determined girl and decides to make her way back to her beloved home town … just as soon as she earns the fare for her trip.
Not only is Lianna determined, she is also a realistic character in that she grows to hate her uncle then immediately feels guilty for doing so. (We humans and our ambivalence!) She resolves to have a cordial relationship with him and the staff, and I ended up with great admiration for Lianna.
The hombit character is awesome! He’s a glass bird except he’s alive and moves and talks and even blushes when he’s embarrassed. He’s also magical and has some clever abilities. He’s rather funny at times, too. I enjoyed the human-hombit friendship that develops. Lianna and Hombit learn from each other and help one another, just like real-life friends should.
The book’s interior sketches are wonderful: delightful at times, poignant at other times, and always eye-catching. They add so much to the reading experience. Kudos to the artist, I. Murphy.
I normally read fiction for adults, so I’m surprised how much I loved this Middle Grade book. It’s easy to follow for younger readers but has depth of character and emotion for older readers.
Five big stars!
Not only is Lianna determined, she is also a realistic character in that she grows to hate her uncle then immediately feels guilty for doing so. (We humans and our ambivalence!) She resolves to have a cordial relationship with him and the staff, and I ended up with great admiration for Lianna.
The hombit character is awesome! He’s a glass bird except he’s alive and moves and talks and even blushes when he’s embarrassed. He’s also magical and has some clever abilities. He’s rather funny at times, too. I enjoyed the human-hombit friendship that develops. Lianna and Hombit learn from each other and help one another, just like real-life friends should.
The book’s interior sketches are wonderful: delightful at times, poignant at other times, and always eye-catching. They add so much to the reading experience. Kudos to the artist, I. Murphy.
I normally read fiction for adults, so I’m surprised how much I loved this Middle Grade book. It’s easy to follow for younger readers but has depth of character and emotion for older readers.
Five big stars!
October 28, 2025
I am in the honored position of having read this wonderful book in advance of its publication. I love Valinora Troy's writing, and I was thrilled that she asked me to work with her on this book. Much as I love her previous "Lucky Diamond" trilogy, I am afraid the little hombit has captured my heart!
Lianna is a wonderful main character. It is so easy to feel for her as she goes to a strange new country after the death of her father. Her grief is depicted so well. As is the conflict within her for independence and to be nurtured.
The hombit, a magical glass bird on a mission, is so delightful. It brings a lot of humor, but it is provides so much emotion in its scenes with Lianna. This is a very moving book, which is appropriate when grief is a main theme.
Readers familiar with the "Lucky Diamond" trilogy will get a nice surprise with some of the people Lianna meets, but there is no need to have read the other books to enjoy this one (although you really should read the other books, as they are great).
I would have loved this book as a child (I still do as an adult!). I am extremely grateful to the author for trusting me with bringing the characters to life through the illustrations.
Lianna is a wonderful main character. It is so easy to feel for her as she goes to a strange new country after the death of her father. Her grief is depicted so well. As is the conflict within her for independence and to be nurtured.
The hombit, a magical glass bird on a mission, is so delightful. It brings a lot of humor, but it is provides so much emotion in its scenes with Lianna. This is a very moving book, which is appropriate when grief is a main theme.
Readers familiar with the "Lucky Diamond" trilogy will get a nice surprise with some of the people Lianna meets, but there is no need to have read the other books to enjoy this one (although you really should read the other books, as they are great).
I would have loved this book as a child (I still do as an adult!). I am extremely grateful to the author for trusting me with bringing the characters to life through the illustrations.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an absolutely delightful book this was. I will be reading it to my little one.
The writing is simple, engaging and flows really easily and the setting has just the right amount of scary foreboding about it. Lianna herself is a strong willed and hard done by 13 year old orphan who it is literally impossible to not root for. Right from the moment her father's watch, which is the most precious thing in the world to her, is stolen you are hardcore on team Lianna.
It reminded me a lot of the old early 20th century 'Little Princess' type of books where she is basically locked away cold and friendless... that is except for the most heart-warming friendship she develops with the magical birdlike 'Hombit.'
This book is powerful wonderful and brilliant and I would give it six stars if I could. I can't wait to read more from this author. The book was provided to me for free for the blog tour but I would gladly pay for another copy to support the author and encourage her to write more. She has a lot of talent
The writing is simple, engaging and flows really easily and the setting has just the right amount of scary foreboding about it. Lianna herself is a strong willed and hard done by 13 year old orphan who it is literally impossible to not root for. Right from the moment her father's watch, which is the most precious thing in the world to her, is stolen you are hardcore on team Lianna.
It reminded me a lot of the old early 20th century 'Little Princess' type of books where she is basically locked away cold and friendless... that is except for the most heart-warming friendship she develops with the magical birdlike 'Hombit.'
This book is powerful wonderful and brilliant and I would give it six stars if I could. I can't wait to read more from this author. The book was provided to me for free for the blog tour but I would gladly pay for another copy to support the author and encourage her to write more. She has a lot of talent
February 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this heartfelt middle-grade fantasy! Going through a difficult time in her life, Lianna is an easy protagonist to root for as she untangles her late father's legacy, comes to terms with her grief, and adapts to her new life. Her magical, birdlike Hombit companion is definitely a source of light and fun in the story, and it was a pleasure to follow them as they untangled some of the secrets around them. Told in a very classical style with a magical flavor and solid narration, I recommend to anyone looking for an enchanting middle grade story with undercurrents of mystery (especially for fans of Troy's Lucky Diamond series.) Thanks so much to the author for the Audible ARC!
March 16, 2026
This was such a delightful read! I really felt for Lianna from the start, dealing with her father's recent death and moving to a completely foreign place. The Hombit, though, was my favorite addition. It added so much wit, wisdom, and fun. This reminded me of classic fantasy, like Narnia and more recently The Wingfeather Saga, with interesting creatures of this world, complete with fun illustrations. Although I was fearful for Lianna throughout, I loved how the story ended with a heartfelt note.
If you'd like to read more, I have a full review on my blog: https://bit.ly/4sm8jqI
If you'd like to read more, I have a full review on my blog: https://bit.ly/4sm8jqI
Review of advance copy received from Author
A really enjoyable read.
Liana and the Hombit is a heartwarming middle grade story that reminded me very much of the Little Princess. Where 13 year-old Lianna, fatherless and alone finds comfort in her only friend a mysterious magical creature called the Hobbit.
Valinora Troy's writing is both vivd and easy to read. Perfect for youngsters. If you like stories about courage friendship and finding light in dark times and places, then do check it out! Thank you to writereads for my copy
Liana and the Hombit is a heartwarming middle grade story that reminded me very much of the Little Princess. Where 13 year-old Lianna, fatherless and alone finds comfort in her only friend a mysterious magical creature called the Hobbit.
Valinora Troy's writing is both vivd and easy to read. Perfect for youngsters. If you like stories about courage friendship and finding light in dark times and places, then do check it out! Thank you to writereads for my copy
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lianna and the Hombit is a charming, quirky middle-grade fantasy that really surprised me in the best way. Lianna is a brave, slightly stubborn heroine who feels very real – not perfect, but easy to root for. The Hombit itself (no spoilers!) is one of the most original magical companions I’ve read about in a while, it’s equal parts adorable and unsettling, which keeps you turning the pages.
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 30, 2026
very good
January 5, 2026
This was a super fun and well written MG adventure story! I really loved the Hombit, it was such a quirky and fun creature. Lianna was mature and clever, but still felt like a thirteen year old girl, very curious and filled with wonder. All the side characters were varied and interesting as well. I enjoyed the fun illustrations too. It was a good mix of mystery, friendship, and adventure, with intriguing magic and a compelling plot, and the ending was very satisfying. A very fun read!
Full review on my website here: https://journeybloomfield.wordpress.c...
(Thank you NetGalley for providing a copy for review.)
Full review on my website here: https://journeybloomfield.wordpress.c...
(Thank you NetGalley for providing a copy for review.)
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