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Diana Alderoot and the Gilded Mage
Diana Alderoot isn't sure about summer school, but she's hopeful to learn at least something new and maybe even some magic from their teacher - the first mage to ever visit The Magic Vale. But school isn't business as usual and the things Diana discovers are about to unravel the very fabric of her realm. Determined to uncover the source of evil rising in the world around her, Diana embarks on an adventure that is quite unlike anything she ever expected. For the world is vast and filled with many realms and creatures of all kinds; and Diana is, after all, only one small fairy. What can she do?
268 pages, ebook
First published June 9, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 27, 2020
Review on my blog
I received a digital copy of this book via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. This does not in any way affect my opinion of the book.
Plot
The book started off pretty slow, in multiple ways. And it wasn't even because there was too much description. If anything, there was too little description. I went into the story feeling a little left int the dark. The story did pick up though, and I was enjoying reading it. The adventure aspect was nice, and I liked how there were different realms. The fairies, the trolls, the dragons... It was actually fun to read about that and stuff.
However, I felt like the story was a little cut off. It just ended, pretty suddenly, and I was disappointed that the action didn't last long. The thing is, I was honestly really enjoying reading about Diana and the other's adventures.
One kind of classic yet still fun aspect of the book was how as Diana went on through their quest, they picked up new members of their team everywhere they went. First Matilda, a gnome then a troll, then a dragon, until finally the story ended. Wait what? The story ended? I sure didn't see that coming. I wasn't paying attention to the percent through the book on my kindle, so it was pretty surprising when the story finished. One moment we were in the midst of the action, then I felt like it just, well, ended without really wrapping things up.
Writing:
It was okay. I actually really liked the overall writing with the description and stuff, I just didn't really like the dialogue. It just didn't seem as natural; when the characters were talking with each other it felt kind of forced.
I also think that there could have been more detail. More time to get to know and understand the characters. But overall, the writing was okay. Not incredibly amazing, but pretty good.
Characters:
To be honest, Diana wasn't my favorite character. She was interesting and had a strong personality, but by far, Matilda was my favorite character in the book. She was so strong, and sure of herself, and her personality was just amazing! I also loved how she was like, you guys need my help so I'll put everything to the side to help you.
Kendel. Ah yes, the mage who goes to teach the young fairies in the Magic Vale. Wait what? Kendel never teaches them anything! Then it almost feels like he's treated like a student! I really think that Kendel didn't need to be so naive, and so helpless as a teacher in the classroom.
Conclusion:
I enjoyed reading this book, but it wasn't fantastic. I definitely would have preferred a bit more detail and more information on what was going on overall. This was a pretty quick read for me, and it was a fun book. I liked the magic world, and while I didn't completely understand all of it at first, I got it more towards the end.
My rating: ★★★☆☆
Recommendable: Yes
To who? Those in search of a funny, adventurous middle grade novel
I received a digital copy of this book via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. This does not in any way affect my opinion of the book.
Plot
The book started off pretty slow, in multiple ways. And it wasn't even because there was too much description. If anything, there was too little description. I went into the story feeling a little left int the dark. The story did pick up though, and I was enjoying reading it. The adventure aspect was nice, and I liked how there were different realms. The fairies, the trolls, the dragons... It was actually fun to read about that and stuff.
However, I felt like the story was a little cut off. It just ended, pretty suddenly, and I was disappointed that the action didn't last long. The thing is, I was honestly really enjoying reading about Diana and the other's adventures.
One kind of classic yet still fun aspect of the book was how as Diana went on through their quest, they picked up new members of their team everywhere they went. First Matilda, a gnome then a troll, then a dragon, until finally the story ended. Wait what? The story ended? I sure didn't see that coming. I wasn't paying attention to the percent through the book on my kindle, so it was pretty surprising when the story finished. One moment we were in the midst of the action, then I felt like it just, well, ended without really wrapping things up.
Writing:
It was okay. I actually really liked the overall writing with the description and stuff, I just didn't really like the dialogue. It just didn't seem as natural; when the characters were talking with each other it felt kind of forced.
I also think that there could have been more detail. More time to get to know and understand the characters. But overall, the writing was okay. Not incredibly amazing, but pretty good.
Characters:
To be honest, Diana wasn't my favorite character. She was interesting and had a strong personality, but by far, Matilda was my favorite character in the book. She was so strong, and sure of herself, and her personality was just amazing! I also loved how she was like, you guys need my help so I'll put everything to the side to help you.
Kendel. Ah yes, the mage who goes to teach the young fairies in the Magic Vale. Wait what? Kendel never teaches them anything! Then it almost feels like he's treated like a student! I really think that Kendel didn't need to be so naive, and so helpless as a teacher in the classroom.
Conclusion:
I enjoyed reading this book, but it wasn't fantastic. I definitely would have preferred a bit more detail and more information on what was going on overall. This was a pretty quick read for me, and it was a fun book. I liked the magic world, and while I didn't completely understand all of it at first, I got it more towards the end.
My rating: ★★★☆☆
Recommendable: Yes
To who? Those in search of a funny, adventurous middle grade novel
August 5, 2020
Title: Dianna Alderoot and the Gilded Mage
Author: Written and Narrated by Trista Shaye
Publisher: Trista Shayne
ISBN: 1087860407
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Diana-Alderoot...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Diana Alderoot isn't sure about summer school, but she's hopeful to learn at least something new and maybe even some magic from their teacher - the first mage to ever visit The Magic Vale. But school isn't business as usual and the things Diana discovers are about to unravel the very fabric of her realm.
Determined to uncover the source of evil rising in the world around her, Diana embarks on an adventure that is quite unlike anything she ever expected. For the world is vast and filled with many realms and creatures of all kinds; and Diana is, after all, only one small fairy. What can she do?
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Diana’s world was never the same after her parents disappeared, but even after building a new life things were never the same. She was allowed into fairy school, but her difficulties made her different. She lived in the base of a tree with her inchworm friend while all the other fairies lived in the city in the branches.
Now all the fairy children are told that they are to attend summer school taught by of all things a mage. This is the first time a mage has even been in The Magic Vale and Dianna can’t wait to see what she will learn. Dianna finds a strange ring that is different than she has ever seen before, but when she asked an adult about it she is brushed off. What Dianna doesn’t know is she has found a fairy ring that could spell doom for everyone in her realm. Dianna embarks on a dangerous mission with the Mage Kendall picking up allies on the way as they are determined to save all the realms form possible destruction.
This is an intricate story taking the reader on a fascinating journey to different realms. Dianna and Kendall travel to different realms where they encounter the inhabitants forming friendships that will be tested as the danger spirals out of control. What and who is placing them all in danger remains to be seen.
I enjoyed this audio-book as Dianna’s story unfolded. Instead of hiding and giving up her determination to save everyone was driving force that kept them going forward in spite of the odds. I enjoyed how this audio-book brought the story alive for the reader.
Author: Written and Narrated by Trista Shaye
Publisher: Trista Shayne
ISBN: 1087860407
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Diana-Alderoot...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Diana Alderoot isn't sure about summer school, but she's hopeful to learn at least something new and maybe even some magic from their teacher - the first mage to ever visit The Magic Vale. But school isn't business as usual and the things Diana discovers are about to unravel the very fabric of her realm.
Determined to uncover the source of evil rising in the world around her, Diana embarks on an adventure that is quite unlike anything she ever expected. For the world is vast and filled with many realms and creatures of all kinds; and Diana is, after all, only one small fairy. What can she do?
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Diana’s world was never the same after her parents disappeared, but even after building a new life things were never the same. She was allowed into fairy school, but her difficulties made her different. She lived in the base of a tree with her inchworm friend while all the other fairies lived in the city in the branches.
Now all the fairy children are told that they are to attend summer school taught by of all things a mage. This is the first time a mage has even been in The Magic Vale and Dianna can’t wait to see what she will learn. Dianna finds a strange ring that is different than she has ever seen before, but when she asked an adult about it she is brushed off. What Dianna doesn’t know is she has found a fairy ring that could spell doom for everyone in her realm. Dianna embarks on a dangerous mission with the Mage Kendall picking up allies on the way as they are determined to save all the realms form possible destruction.
This is an intricate story taking the reader on a fascinating journey to different realms. Dianna and Kendall travel to different realms where they encounter the inhabitants forming friendships that will be tested as the danger spirals out of control. What and who is placing them all in danger remains to be seen.
I enjoyed this audio-book as Dianna’s story unfolded. Instead of hiding and giving up her determination to save everyone was driving force that kept them going forward in spite of the odds. I enjoyed how this audio-book brought the story alive for the reader.
April 16, 2020
Diana Alderoot and the Gilded Mage is a fantastical, imaginative story with creatively-crafted dialogue and whimsical imagery. The characters are each uniquely designed creatures (Fairies, Mages, Trolls, Gnomes, Moths, etc.) who bring to life Shaye’s elaborate world-building and beautifully composed character and plot arcs.
Specifically, the character arc for Kendel, the young, insecure Mage, is especially endearing, reminding the readers that we can overcome the words of less-than-enough that have been spoken over us during life’s imperfect moments. Moreover, I especially love the way Shaye encourages readers through both action and dialogue that our words–both spoken and written–are powerful, much like magic. And how we wield that power–for good or for evil–will have weighty effects on our world and the people around us.
Through sacrifice and ingenuity, the ragamuffin band of friends in Shaye’s delightful tale work together to overcome all odds and accomplish a greater good. Diana Alderoot and the Gilded Mage is a wonderful read for all ages, and each reader will be both entertained and touched by Trista Shaye’s valuable literary offering.
Specifically, the character arc for Kendel, the young, insecure Mage, is especially endearing, reminding the readers that we can overcome the words of less-than-enough that have been spoken over us during life’s imperfect moments. Moreover, I especially love the way Shaye encourages readers through both action and dialogue that our words–both spoken and written–are powerful, much like magic. And how we wield that power–for good or for evil–will have weighty effects on our world and the people around us.
Through sacrifice and ingenuity, the ragamuffin band of friends in Shaye’s delightful tale work together to overcome all odds and accomplish a greater good. Diana Alderoot and the Gilded Mage is a wonderful read for all ages, and each reader will be both entertained and touched by Trista Shaye’s valuable literary offering.
March 28, 2020
I was initially drawn to Diana Alderoot and the Gilded Mage because I like pretty things, and this book’s cover and interior are quite pretty. Happily, the story itself warranted such an attractive design. The fairy Diana is a very likeable heroine, as are the many friends she makes during her adventures. I loved the story world—I would very much like to visit all of the kingdoms (and go for a ride on a snail train over a centipede bridge and fly on a giant moth). Trista Shaye’s writing voice is reminiscent of Lewis’s in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe and was very enjoyable. There were also many valuable lessons as the friends learn to interact with one another and overcome lies told to them. Highly recommended for MG readers and others who enjoy light adventures with lovable characters and fun story worlds.
Note: I was given an ARC for review but the opinions expressed in the review are my own.
Note: I was given an ARC for review but the opinions expressed in the review are my own.
April 12, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
So many missed opportunities but I loved the descriptions and the characters. Top notch world building. Everything was so vivid and even the names felt... appropriate? I wish there would have been romance, but alas, there was not.
I really wish this would have been a three book series. I feel like expanding it would have allowed for more relationship building and allowed more exploration of the different realms. I don’t say expand the story often, but the evil villain especially needed more page time. I hardly got to know him even on a surface level.
3.5 out of 5 cows - there were also some POV errors that made it difficult to read.
So many missed opportunities but I loved the descriptions and the characters. Top notch world building. Everything was so vivid and even the names felt... appropriate? I wish there would have been romance, but alas, there was not.
I really wish this would have been a three book series. I feel like expanding it would have allowed for more relationship building and allowed more exploration of the different realms. I don’t say expand the story often, but the evil villain especially needed more page time. I hardly got to know him even on a surface level.
3.5 out of 5 cows - there were also some POV errors that made it difficult to read.
March 28, 2020
**Disclaimer: The author provided me an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review**
I fell in love with this story from the very first page. The voice of the story is so unique, heartfelt, and refreshing! Diana is a charming fairy who isn't afraid to think outside the box. I felt an instant connection with her, and while she was one of my favorite parts of the book, I was constantly impressed by the world Diana lived in.
The author weaved stunning imagery together in a quirky forest. As I read, I found myself grinning from ear to ear because of how original the setting was. It was easy for me to lose myself in this story, and I adored it to pieces!
I fell in love with this story from the very first page. The voice of the story is so unique, heartfelt, and refreshing! Diana is a charming fairy who isn't afraid to think outside the box. I felt an instant connection with her, and while she was one of my favorite parts of the book, I was constantly impressed by the world Diana lived in.
The author weaved stunning imagery together in a quirky forest. As I read, I found myself grinning from ear to ear because of how original the setting was. It was easy for me to lose myself in this story, and I adored it to pieces!
March 12, 2020
I listened to this book before my daughter to make sure that it would be ok for a 10 yr old. Although I felt it started a bit slow, it ended up being a very interesting story with so many magical elements. I really enjoyed the way this book went and the depth the author gave to her characters. The narration was amazing (although I was not a fan of the music but know my daughter will love it) with all the different voices she used. Overall I was pleased with this book and love that I found a book that will grip and entertain my daughter probably through many listens.
March 21, 2020
There is a huge need for books geared toward this age group. I've never read anything by Shaye in the past. I found this to be an enjoyable tale with likeable characters. The pace does start out a bit slow, but it picks up as the story unfolds. There are a number of magical elements (from dragons to fairies) to keep the reader's attention. Diana's struggles are relatable ... even to humans :) This is a clean read, so it's safe for younger readers.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
March 16, 2020
Diana Alderoot And The Gilded Mage by Trista Shaye.
This story was very fun & cute. Moved along nicely and had a variety of likable characters!
I enjoyed the tale!
This story was very fun & cute. Moved along nicely and had a variety of likable characters!
I enjoyed the tale!
March 27, 2020
Great read! I would love to meet a giant fuzzy moth and ride on its back! Great adventure and worth the read. :)
March 21, 2020
Clean, fun, and full of magic!
I received an arc read for this story and enjoyed it! It has everything from fairy realms to dragons! There's a little something for everyone. Diana's journey is one full of mystery but also relatability as she struggles to fit in with the other fairies.
The Gilded Mage is also a perfect fit for middle grade readers! The story is clean and has no violence or upsetting themes. There's also a lot of hilarious jokes and one-liners!
All in all, a great read! I definitely recommend it.
I received an arc read for this story and enjoyed it! It has everything from fairy realms to dragons! There's a little something for everyone. Diana's journey is one full of mystery but also relatability as she struggles to fit in with the other fairies.
The Gilded Mage is also a perfect fit for middle grade readers! The story is clean and has no violence or upsetting themes. There's also a lot of hilarious jokes and one-liners!
All in all, a great read! I definitely recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews