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Circle of Nine: Sacred Treasures

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◆ ERIC HOFFER BOOK AWARD GRAND PRIZE SHORT LIST ◆

★★★★★ FIVE STARS from Readers Favorite: "Great writing, enthralling plot, fast-paced, and utterly seductive."

Brigit Quinn thought uncovering her magical heritage was the biggest shock of her life. But a year after learning she’s descended from a legendary Celtic tribe sworn to guard the mystical power of Ireland’s ancient places, the real battle is just beginning. As she trains for her place in the Circle of Nine, Brigit is determined to protect the secrets and sacred traditions of her people.

But when a cryptic warning arrives—hinting at a shadowy force hunting the Sacred Treasures—everything she’s fought for is suddenly at risk. If the ancient weapons fall into the wrong hands, The Circle could be shattered forever.

Haunted by doubts about her powers, the true intentions of those around her, and disturbing revelations about her family’s past, Brigit must navigate a dangerous path of betrayal, magic, and myth. The enemy is closer than anyone suspects—and time is running out. Can Brigit uncover the truth before darkness claims the Circle?

"The first time I summoned a portal, I didn’t understand how I accidentally opened a doorway to another realm. The second time wasn’t a mistake. I was ready—and I stepped through with the grim resolve that my mission must succeed." —Brigit Quinn

Paperback

Published October 23, 2016

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About the author

Valerie Biel

10 books156 followers
Valerie Biel's love for travel and insatiable curiosity inspires her storytelling. Her award-winning Circle of Nine series is set partially in Ireland where she was inspired by the ancient stone circles which dot the countryside. Beltany, an actual stone circle in County Donegal, Ireland, plays an important part in this novel. "There's something eerie and beautiful about these circles which rise up out of the greenest grass you've ever seen. Who built them? Why did they build them? If that's not enough to start a story, nothing is." Her other books include HAVEN, a middle-grade novel that sensitively handles the tough topic of domestic abuse through the eyes of an 11-year-old, and BEYOND THE CEMETERY GATE, a mystery suspense novel.

She holds a degree in Journalism (Public Relations/Broadcast News) and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin and has spent more than 25 years working in the public relations field. She edits manuscripts and develops and implements marketing & publicity plans for other authors via her agency Lost Lake Press. She often teaches about writing topics at conferences, libraries, and schools. She also creates a monthly Writers’ Forum column with the latest news from the publishing industry and writing world on Substack publication Reading, Writing, & Roaming. She sits on the board of The World Orphan Fund, a charity founded by her husband RJ Johnson in 2010 that assists children's homes in countries around the globe. She lives on a (tiny) piece of her family's century old farm in Wisconsin, but regularly dreams of finding the perfect cottage on the Irish coast where she could write and write.

To keep up with what's happening with her books or to enjoy some fun 'stuff' for readers (like a awesome playlists), go to her website at www.ValerieBiel.com. For more frequent updates, "Like" her author Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ValerieBielBooks or subscribe to her blog at https://readingwritingandroaming.subs....

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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Profile Image for Ashley Kanazawich .
145 reviews7 followers
December 29, 2025
This installment felt very different from the first two books in the series. While I appreciated continuing the story and seeing where things were headed, the tone shifted away from the earthy, ritual-based magic and ancestral storytelling that originally drew me in.

This book leaned more heavily into portal style and sci-fi adjacent elements, which wasn’t quite what I was hoping for after how grounded and spiritual the earlier books felt. It wasn’t bad, just not a direction that resonated with me as strongly.

That said, I can see how this shift sets up future developments in the series, and readers who enjoy more fantastical or sci-fi magic may find this installment more compelling than I did. For me, it was a decent read, but not a standout compared to the earlier books.
Profile Image for Karen Siddall.
Author 1 book117 followers
November 29, 2025
Wow! A definite page-turner from the start!

When a diary from 1969 is discovered in a secret hiding place during their home's remodeling, Brigit Quinn and her parents, Rowan and Celeste, are alarmed by its contents in more ways than one. Written and concealed in a hidden drawer behind the stones on the back wall of their house by her grandmother Phoebe, it precipitates a renewed search for the missing Adele McGrath, and for her father to seek out his mysterious and elusive father, Malachi, for some solid answers about the identity of Rowan's mother. Furthermore, when Brigit and Celeste scry for answers, the resulting vision warns of a coming attack on the Tuatha, which, left unanswered, leads to the breach of The Otherworld, the theft of the Sacred Treasures safeguarded there, and the destruction of their ancient line. Worst of all, it hints that Adele's missing son will be at the center of it all – but on which side is yet unknown.

Sacred Treasures is the third book in author Valerie Biel's riveting Circle of Nine series and returns to focus on the present-day situation in the Quinn household. So much happened in book one, BELTANY, and this story gives a wrap-up of those events without spoiling the story for those who haven't read it yet. (So, readers new to the series can jump in on the story with this novel and have an entertaining experience. However, for best enjoyment, the books should really be read in order.) Brigit has matured so much since her introduction, and her joy over the changes her small family has experienced and awaits is infectious. However, the happiness is overshadowed by the warnings of the unknown danger to the Tuatha and the gasp-inducing possibility that her newly returned father may be involved. Not only that, but information in the diary hints at ramifications that could affect Brigit's relationship with Tyler McGrath in a very big way.

The story is fast-paced and a definite page-turner. I was delighted with Brigit's growth as a character and how far she's come since her 15th birthday, when she learned about her matriarchal lineage, and how she's embraced her emerging powers and learned the ways of the women in her family from her mother. They were close before, and their shared experiences and heritage have brought them even closer. With the confidence of youth, Brigit is ready and willing to test her abilities. I was shocked by her leyline traveling and by her mother's willingness to even let her attempt it! I loved the rhyming spells, messages, and the details of their ancient ways, and there's so much excitement and drama throughout the story. I read long and late and was reluctant (and annoyed) to put the book down for the evening.

I recommend SACRED TREASURES to readers of contemporary fantasy and magical realism, as well as to fans of the previous books in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.


Profile Image for Valerie Biel.
Author 10 books156 followers
July 24, 2025
FROM READERS' FAVORITE: "Great writing, enthralling plot, fast-paced, and utterly seductive." "This is an extraordinary story with a fantastic setting and characters that remind readers of the sacred in them. I enjoyed the way the author explored the struggle between good and evil in this work and how the conflict reaches every aspect of the story. The protagonist is well designed to represent a whole tradition and readers will love to see her transformed from a neophyte into a confident guardian of her tradition."
Profile Image for itsjustChloe.
5 reviews
May 14, 2018
I loved reading this series and I can't wait for more from this writer.

I highly recommend to any age group. All characters are well developed and have unpredictable plots. I was carried away by so many intricately weaved stories. The series comes full circle in the end and is not dramatized by any one main event, but many developements. The stories within the stories are presented in perfect order to keep the reader intrigued and fully engrossed in the main character 's story line.
Profile Image for Nancy.
356 reviews2 followers
July 7, 2024
Circle of Nine: Sacred Treasures ( Circle of Nine Series Book 3 )

This is a series every age group will enjoy reading.
you will learn a lot of history in these three books
I want to read more, but this cannot be. anyway
I’ve added another awesome author to my growing author list.
Valerie Biel, Thank you!
Profile Image for Laurie Buchanan.
Author 8 books358 followers
December 5, 2021
"'Just one more chapter' I told myself, and then proceeded to finish the fast-paced, nail-biting, unputdownable book. Eyes wide with anticipation, I didn't blink once! Another terrific high-stakes read from Biel. Keep them coming."
Profile Image for gj indieBRAG.
1,801 reviews96 followers
April 24, 2017
We are proud to announce that CIRCLE OF NINE-SACRED TREASURES (BOOK 3) by Valerie Biel is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,115 reviews5 followers
December 31, 2023
Circle of Nine

Brigit and two of her friends of the Tuatha fought to rid black magic. At the end the Tuatha warriors came to help. All the treasures were saved.
Profile Image for Annarella.
14.2k reviews166 followers
December 16, 2025
Secret Treasure by Valerie Biel is a captivating fantasy novel that draws readers into a world of magic, mystery, and adventure. From the very first chapter, the story moves at a fast pace, keeping you engaged and eager to discover what happens next. The plot is well-structured and full of surprises, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys stories that combine action with depth.
This book is part of the award-winning Circle of Nine series, and while it can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading the previous books makes the experience even more engrossing. The earlier installments provide background on the magical traditions and family history that shape the events in Secret Treasure. Knowing these details adds emotional weight and makes the connections between characters even more meaningful. However, if you are new to the series, you will still find this story easy to follow and highly entertaining.
One of the most impressive aspects of this book is its world-building. Valerie Biel expands the universe introduced in earlier installments, adding layers of history, culture, and magical elements that make the setting feel vivid and believable. The descriptions are detailed enough to create a strong sense of place without slowing down the narrative. This balance between immersive detail and dynamic storytelling makes the book highly engaging.
Among the characters, Birgid stands out as one of the most intriguing. She is strong, independent, and full of personality, yet she also has complexity that makes her feel real. Birgid’s choices and emotions add tension and depth to the story, and her presence enriches the overall reading experience. If you enjoy characters who are more than they appear at first glance, Birgid will definitely capture your attention.
The plot itself is full of twists and turns. There are moments of danger, discovery, and suspense that keep you guessing until the very end. Every chapter moves the story forward, and every event feels connected to the bigger picture. This sense of purpose and momentum makes the book hard to put down. You always feel that something important is about to happen, which creates a strong sense of anticipation throughout the novel.
Another strength of Secret Treasure is the way it blends fantasy with emotional depth. It is not only about magic and adventure but also about relationships, trust, and courage. The characters face challenges that test their loyalty and strength, and these moments give the story a human touch. You care about what happens to them because they feel authentic, even in a world filled with extraordinary elements.
In conclusion, Secret Treasure is a highly recommended read for anyone who loves fantasy that combines magic, mystery, and heart. Whether you start here or read the entire series, this book will keep you hooked from start to finish. If you are looking for a story that is exciting, immersive, and full of surprises, this one will not disappoint.
Profile Image for Danielle Urban.
Author 12 books167 followers
December 20, 2025
Valerie Biel's latest book, Sacred Treasures, is a fantastic new journey in the Circle of Nine series. I love this fantasy, suspense thrilling, mystery read. It has some equal parts of my favorite books/movies in it that feels similar. One way to explain is that if you love Harry Potter and know the series as well as I do, then Brigit and her Circle of Nine feels almost the same to me. She comes to magical powers, comes to terms with what she is or will be, and still has a lot on her plate to do. All of it similar to Harry Potter by J.K. Rolling. Then, there's the settings and the structures that remind me of The Hobbit. I can visualize that sceneries from this book and series that Valerie Biel has beautifully woven to life. Absolutely stunning...and the characters are exceptional. Brigit is the number one favorite. But also, I love her parents and all the other cast members, too. Brigit still has a lot of learning and preparation to do. Her story is adventurous, engaging, fun, exciting, and one that I won't be forgetting any time soon. Both teens and adults will love this book and whole series. It has many themes that both age groups can relate to and understand. Overall, Valerie Biel's writing is to die for...


I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
12 reviews
January 15, 2026
wanted to finish the series. was better than the second book but not as good as the first.
Profile Image for Country Mama.
1,502 reviews70 followers
November 7, 2025
Circle of Nine: Sacred Treasures by Valerie Bell is Book 3 in the Circle of Nine series by the author. If you have not read the other books in the series you will need to and catch up! This is such an amazingly written series, you will want to read all the books;) Also check out our previosu reviews on the other books in the series for the scoop. Our MC is Brigit Quinn, who is our resident young adult/teenager. Brigit has learned that her family has ties to the Celtic tribe who takes care of the ancient Irish places. Brigit is determined to train for her spot in the Circle of Nine and also her mother and father have reconciled. I love the pagan elements in this book as with all the previous books also. I love the way that the author packs each of these books with action and also so much family stuff. Brigit and her friends/family are trying to help keep the ancient treasures and her family safe. I really liked the ending where we find out the family is growing and the ending is perfect for the 3rd book. I can not wait to see the last book in the series takes Brigit and our family! Highly recommended to fans of pagan traditions and also just terrific writing overall!
Profile Image for Gina Hott.
746 reviews70 followers
January 8, 2026
Valerie Biel’s third installment, Circle of Nine: Sacred Treasures, just took this series to a whole other level. Brigit Quinn’s story throws you headfirst into a whirlwind of magic, ancient secrets, and the kind of suspense that makes you forget you meant to go to bed an hour ago. From cryptic warnings to shifting alliances, every twist keeps you hooked—and guessing who you can trust. Sacred Treasures isn’t just about Celtic legends and mystical portals (though there’s plenty of that). It’s also about the tougher stuff: betrayal, fear, friendships put to the test, and family secrets that complicate everything. Brigit’s doubts, her growth, and the looming threat to her newfound family make this a story that’s truly unforgettable. If you’re after a story where the stakes are high and the magic feels real, Sacred Treasures delivers and leaves you eagerly anticipating MERCY IN THE MIST.
Profile Image for Silvia Acevedo.
Author 6 books18 followers
March 20, 2017
Brigit Quinn has not only come to terms with the strange powers and high expectations inherent in her heritage, she's embracing them and wants to learn all she can. That happens way faster than expected when she finds a packet launching her into a cross-world hunt for magical relics that could save or destroy her world.

I thoroughly enjoyed this action-packed ride. We not only travel to ancient times but to key locales across the globe during Brigit's frightening but riveting adventure. Filled with tension, teenage grit, and high stakes, Sacred Treasures is a fantastic finale to the Circle of Nine Series. What a world! Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews

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