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The Reluctant Wizard
By day, wizards rule the world. At night, warlocks seek to destroy it. Now, one boy will challenge them both.
Eli never wanted to be a rebel. All he wants is an end to the famine and war threatening his community. To save his mother and baby brother from marauding warlocks, Eli is forced to make a heartbreaking decision. He must travel to Terra Magicae, the mysterious land of the wizards, to study magic. In exchange, the wizards will protect his family, but this protection comes at a price: once Eli enters the Grand Wizardry Academy, he may never come home.
Full of lush landscapes and magical marvels, Terra Magicae is more wondrous than Eli ever imagined... and more dangerous. At first, Eli's struggles to fit in at the Academy seem ordinary. But the more he questions the wizards, the more he suspects a sinister purpose behind their bizarre rules and tests. For a dark secret lies at the heart of this mystical land, one so terrible it threatens not only the students at the Academy but the lives of everyone Eli loves.
To save them all, Eli must step into the midst of the battle between the wizards and warlocks and defy both sides. He must become the rebel he was always meant to be.
Eli never wanted to be a rebel. All he wants is an end to the famine and war threatening his community. To save his mother and baby brother from marauding warlocks, Eli is forced to make a heartbreaking decision. He must travel to Terra Magicae, the mysterious land of the wizards, to study magic. In exchange, the wizards will protect his family, but this protection comes at a price: once Eli enters the Grand Wizardry Academy, he may never come home.
Full of lush landscapes and magical marvels, Terra Magicae is more wondrous than Eli ever imagined... and more dangerous. At first, Eli's struggles to fit in at the Academy seem ordinary. But the more he questions the wizards, the more he suspects a sinister purpose behind their bizarre rules and tests. For a dark secret lies at the heart of this mystical land, one so terrible it threatens not only the students at the Academy but the lives of everyone Eli loves.
To save them all, Eli must step into the midst of the battle between the wizards and warlocks and defy both sides. He must become the rebel he was always meant to be.
458 pages, Paperback
Published September 2, 2020
2 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
A.A. Warne
15 books178 followersA. A. Warne writes elaborate, strange, dark, and twisted stories. In other words, speculative fiction.
Located at the bottom of the Blue Mountains in Sydney, Australia, Amanda was born an artist and grew up a painter before deciding to study pottery.
But it wasn't until she found the art of the written word that her universe expanded.
A graduate of Western Sydney University in Arts, Amanda now spends her time wrestling three kids and writing full time.
Located at the bottom of the Blue Mountains in Sydney, Australia, Amanda was born an artist and grew up a painter before deciding to study pottery.
But it wasn't until she found the art of the written word that her universe expanded.
A graduate of Western Sydney University in Arts, Amanda now spends her time wrestling three kids and writing full time.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 18, 2020
I received a review copy of The Reluctant Wizard in conjunction with a blog tour event through Silver Dagger Book Tours. My thoughts on this title are my own and entirely honest.
The Reluctant Wizard is a whirlwind academic fantasy novel of high middle grade to young adult reading level. Our protagonist is Eli, the eldest son of one of the few former students of Terra Magicae to ever leave, and he has been instructed all his life to never attend. Go to the testings to avoid suspicion, but fail them on purpose. Never enter the academy. But now Eli's father is dead and his family and community at large are destitute. The academy pays compensation to families out here for students they send to learn wizardry. Eli decides to sacrifice his freedom in hopes that he can provide for his family in this way. Unfortunately for Eli, his late father and his uncle have been far less than truthful about their own time in Terra Magicae and the perils that would await him.
This is a brilliantly written "chosen one" adventure that is so well paced. Worldbuilding is expertly integrated into the story so that the reader is never confronted with passages of history that break from the narrative, but the reader is also never any more lost than the POV character himself.
I wasn't sure if I like Eli in the beginning, as I expected him to be a self-absorbed brat. I think this early impression was partly due to the official synopsis combined with the cover art depicting a rather bored-looking boy in robes perched on a throne. This is absolutely not the case at all! Eli is empathic and utterly selfless, exceedingly bright, and adorably naive.
Of the supporting cast, I love Khah and Uncle Izaec in particular, but there are so many well rounded and likeable characters. Khah had to grow on me, as she's a little abrupt and aloof in the beginning, but as we get to know her it makes perfect sense. Uncle Izaec reminds me of the version of Long John Silver presented in Disney's Treasure Planet. The only character I remained on the fence about the entire time was Sax, Eli's "lab partner" (for lack of a better term without spoilers) who's two years younger than the already young Eli but behaves and treats Eli as if he were Eli's elder. Something about the way Eli always deferred to Sax as if to an elder, not just a more experienced student, occasionally interrupted my suspension of disbelief.
This book is written in short chapters, which is handy if this is being read for school or as part of a bedtime routine as it breaks this lengthy 458-page book into bite-sized chunks.
Parents and educators should be aware that this book deals with darker themes than most similar novels in terms of category and genre. While nothing gets particularly graphic, this book does present elements of death, war, and poverty. (Being as vague as possible to avoid spoilers:) There's also a culling element to the plot that is presented as gently as similar culling elements in Lowry's The Giver. That is to say that the full emotional impact of the issue will probably go over the heads of readers who are too young or emotionally inexperienced to appreciate the gravity of this particular plot point, rather than confusing or traumatizing them, but all the information is there for the readers who are prepared for the full picture.
Overall this was an excellent read that I absolutely flew through, and I hope to read more from these characters and in this world.
--
I read this title for a blog tour! To read the rest of the post and gain easy access to the rest of the tour, visit: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
The Reluctant Wizard is a whirlwind academic fantasy novel of high middle grade to young adult reading level. Our protagonist is Eli, the eldest son of one of the few former students of Terra Magicae to ever leave, and he has been instructed all his life to never attend. Go to the testings to avoid suspicion, but fail them on purpose. Never enter the academy. But now Eli's father is dead and his family and community at large are destitute. The academy pays compensation to families out here for students they send to learn wizardry. Eli decides to sacrifice his freedom in hopes that he can provide for his family in this way. Unfortunately for Eli, his late father and his uncle have been far less than truthful about their own time in Terra Magicae and the perils that would await him.
This is a brilliantly written "chosen one" adventure that is so well paced. Worldbuilding is expertly integrated into the story so that the reader is never confronted with passages of history that break from the narrative, but the reader is also never any more lost than the POV character himself.
I wasn't sure if I like Eli in the beginning, as I expected him to be a self-absorbed brat. I think this early impression was partly due to the official synopsis combined with the cover art depicting a rather bored-looking boy in robes perched on a throne. This is absolutely not the case at all! Eli is empathic and utterly selfless, exceedingly bright, and adorably naive.
Of the supporting cast, I love Khah and Uncle Izaec in particular, but there are so many well rounded and likeable characters. Khah had to grow on me, as she's a little abrupt and aloof in the beginning, but as we get to know her it makes perfect sense. Uncle Izaec reminds me of the version of Long John Silver presented in Disney's Treasure Planet. The only character I remained on the fence about the entire time was Sax, Eli's "lab partner" (for lack of a better term without spoilers) who's two years younger than the already young Eli but behaves and treats Eli as if he were Eli's elder. Something about the way Eli always deferred to Sax as if to an elder, not just a more experienced student, occasionally interrupted my suspension of disbelief.
This book is written in short chapters, which is handy if this is being read for school or as part of a bedtime routine as it breaks this lengthy 458-page book into bite-sized chunks.
Parents and educators should be aware that this book deals with darker themes than most similar novels in terms of category and genre. While nothing gets particularly graphic, this book does present elements of death, war, and poverty. (Being as vague as possible to avoid spoilers:) There's also a culling element to the plot that is presented as gently as similar culling elements in Lowry's The Giver. That is to say that the full emotional impact of the issue will probably go over the heads of readers who are too young or emotionally inexperienced to appreciate the gravity of this particular plot point, rather than confusing or traumatizing them, but all the information is there for the readers who are prepared for the full picture.
Overall this was an excellent read that I absolutely flew through, and I hope to read more from these characters and in this world.
--
I read this title for a blog tour! To read the rest of the post and gain easy access to the rest of the tour, visit: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
March 29, 2021
The reluctant wizard is a sci-fi fantasy story about Eli. His family is constantly threatened by the warlocks hence, he decides to go to the wizarding world and study magic. Terra Magicae is not an ordinary lace and as the wizards promise to protect his mother and baby brother, Eli enters the Academy and has to leave all behind.
The book is geared towards the young adult audience however, I still found it intriguing to read. The dialogue or plot wasn’t just for the young readers. I have to admit; the cover was not appealing to me. The content on the other hand was attention-grabbing. Eli’s personality at the beginning also does not give you the best impression either, however, as you read along, the character begins to shine. Sometimes, in fact, I was wondering how can a person so young be dealing with such confrontations.
I think the biggest thing one could take away from this story was how Eli gave up his life for his family.
The literature was well written and the pace of the story was steady. The scenes were written with a nice flow. I recommend this book to young adult readers and sci-fi fans.
The book is geared towards the young adult audience however, I still found it intriguing to read. The dialogue or plot wasn’t just for the young readers. I have to admit; the cover was not appealing to me. The content on the other hand was attention-grabbing. Eli’s personality at the beginning also does not give you the best impression either, however, as you read along, the character begins to shine. Sometimes, in fact, I was wondering how can a person so young be dealing with such confrontations.
I think the biggest thing one could take away from this story was how Eli gave up his life for his family.
The literature was well written and the pace of the story was steady. The scenes were written with a nice flow. I recommend this book to young adult readers and sci-fi fans.
January 4, 2021
I got a copy from the author and I loved it.
Story line was not confusing or misleading but it was still complex. Following the story of Eli I started to love the kid with the massive heart, not many kids these days that would sacrifice like he did for his family and community.
I feel there may even been room for a sequel I hope AA Warne is working on one. I would be very happy to read it.
Story line was not confusing or misleading but it was still complex. Following the story of Eli I started to love the kid with the massive heart, not many kids these days that would sacrifice like he did for his family and community.
I feel there may even been room for a sequel I hope AA Warne is working on one. I would be very happy to read it.
September 2, 2020
Eli loves his mother and baby brother, and his Uncle Izaec. He’s so devastated at the loss of his father who was his hero. Seeing his mother and brother starve because the war between the Wizards and the Warlocks means they have no food. He can’t see any way of avoiding doing what his father and uncle always told him not to do, he’ll go to Terra Magicae and pass the test he deliberately failed before. Once he’s accepted the Wizards will feed his family and protect them.
When he enters, he is given a number to replace his name, then he takes tests to find out what his abilities are. He confounds the Wizards because, not only has he arrived midterm and been accepted, but he has several possible areas of expertise. This has never happened before. He could be an empath but then he’s sent to the Research Centre instead.
His guide to the Grand Wizardry Academy is a boy called Thirty-two Thousand, Five Hundred and Sixty-three or Ykey in his old name. Eli wasn’t sure if Ykey was a friend because he was reluctant to help him. Eli asks too many questions. It’s two days after he arrives before he has a proper meal, all due to a misunderstanding by Ykey, and his new roommate a girl called Khah, isn’t happy about that either. Because he hadn’t been able to feed himself or, clean himself up. He also met a boy called Oxca, who was a bully who enjoyed annoying Eli.
On his way to the Research Centre, he discovers giant snakes underground that are contained by an invisible barrier. They are experiments that have gone wrong. He only just escapes being eaten. Ykey is mad at him for not listening to his warnings. Once he arrives at the Research Centre things get better. He meets a boy called Sax. He can start to settle into working on a project and being part of a team.
Trying not to worry about the strange head Wizards becomes hard when he overhears a conversation between two Wizards. Are the children at the Academy in danger?
I'm delighted to discover that this is just the first book in a series. The story has many layers and Eli’s magical abilities are multi-layered. There are many questions yet to be answered and the terrifying flight away from Terra Magicae being chased by Wizards and helped by Warlocks is vividly portrayed. Will Eli make it to the Warlock King and become a rebel? Or is his capture by the Wizards another ordeal he must endure. Will he get to meet his mother and brother again? Does his magic come from his own abilities or the gem he accidentally swallowed?
I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series by this talented Australian writer.
When he enters, he is given a number to replace his name, then he takes tests to find out what his abilities are. He confounds the Wizards because, not only has he arrived midterm and been accepted, but he has several possible areas of expertise. This has never happened before. He could be an empath but then he’s sent to the Research Centre instead.
His guide to the Grand Wizardry Academy is a boy called Thirty-two Thousand, Five Hundred and Sixty-three or Ykey in his old name. Eli wasn’t sure if Ykey was a friend because he was reluctant to help him. Eli asks too many questions. It’s two days after he arrives before he has a proper meal, all due to a misunderstanding by Ykey, and his new roommate a girl called Khah, isn’t happy about that either. Because he hadn’t been able to feed himself or, clean himself up. He also met a boy called Oxca, who was a bully who enjoyed annoying Eli.
On his way to the Research Centre, he discovers giant snakes underground that are contained by an invisible barrier. They are experiments that have gone wrong. He only just escapes being eaten. Ykey is mad at him for not listening to his warnings. Once he arrives at the Research Centre things get better. He meets a boy called Sax. He can start to settle into working on a project and being part of a team.
Trying not to worry about the strange head Wizards becomes hard when he overhears a conversation between two Wizards. Are the children at the Academy in danger?
I'm delighted to discover that this is just the first book in a series. The story has many layers and Eli’s magical abilities are multi-layered. There are many questions yet to be answered and the terrifying flight away from Terra Magicae being chased by Wizards and helped by Warlocks is vividly portrayed. Will Eli make it to the Warlock King and become a rebel? Or is his capture by the Wizards another ordeal he must endure. Will he get to meet his mother and brother again? Does his magic come from his own abilities or the gem he accidentally swallowed?
I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series by this talented Australian writer.
September 12, 2020
I don't usually read middle grade, but If they were like this book I would read more.
I Loved The well rounded characters, The rich imaginery of The setting, The secrets and all The twists and turns that keep you guessing... This combination of treats plus a dark undertone through The story made it stand out.. It was unique and yet a story that can be read by The whole family.
I want to know more abou Eli, so, I Can't wait For The next Book.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange For an honest opinion
I Loved The well rounded characters, The rich imaginery of The setting, The secrets and all The twists and turns that keep you guessing... This combination of treats plus a dark undertone through The story made it stand out.. It was unique and yet a story that can be read by The whole family.
I want to know more abou Eli, so, I Can't wait For The next Book.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange For an honest opinion
October 9, 2020
This book is an exciting story that follows a 10 year old boy named Eli, who joins the Wizard Academy and discovers that not all is what it seems.
It’s a grade school/YA book that you will want to discover and grow with. It has hard subjects like war, famine, and loss, but through the eyes and emotions of a child.
Would highly recommend and I’m waiting for the next book to come out!
It’s a grade school/YA book that you will want to discover and grow with. It has hard subjects like war, famine, and loss, but through the eyes and emotions of a child.
Would highly recommend and I’m waiting for the next book to come out!
March 14, 2021
Wonder, magic, and suspense. This Harry Potteresq novel has it all!
The Reluctant Wizard is an exciting middle grade/YA fantasy created by a talented storyteller. The high quality writing is a perfect blend of imaginative world building and well-crafted suspense. A suspense which kept me turning pages in eagerness, not only to ensure Eli was safe, but to unravel the mysteries of this authentic world. And that’s where this book excelled.
Eli’s world is divided into five districts surrounding central Terra Magicae where the Grand Wizardry Academy exists. Wizards rule, Warlocks raid, everyone is suffering. Against his deceased father’s wishes, Eli enters the mysterious Academy to save his mother and baby brother from starvation. The catch – once he enters, he can never leave!
Terra Magicae is a magical place where rules of time and reality differ. Escorted by Ykey (a wizard apprentice), Eli first meets Scio, a Wizard who is forever asleep. Everything about the Wizards and the wizard realm is an exploration of endless possibilities and imagination. Scio, the Keeper of Knowledge, draws people inside his imagination where not only quills and pages come alive. ‘It walked like a metal spider, banging its feet against the wooden desk.’ Intrigued? Spider typewriters is but one of the marvels Eli uncovers.
Shocking revelations emerge, and what Eli thought he knew is possibly a lie. Enemies might be saviours, but who can be trusted? New friends, Wizards, Warlocks, or a secretive uncle? It makes for tense and thrilling reading, trying to figure out who truly is on Eli’s side.
The prose (besides the superb editing) is filled with emotive description. The body language, action beats and dialogue seamlessly blend together, bringing the characters to life in subtle, but effective ways. Combined with this, the author has a way with creating sound. I particularly liked, ‘Bells rang in a screeching chorus that chattered his teeth, rattled through his neck, and danced down his spine.’ You don’t only see this world through vivid description, you feel it, and hear it.
The magic system relies on source stones (gems) and how they provide power is one of the darker arcs of the story. Using magic has consequences!. On occasion, Eli’s evolving magical abilities appeared spontaneously, and sometimes Wizards don’t use magic when you’d expect them to, which felt a little convenient. Also, the uncle keeping secrets left me frustrated, but I wasn’t the only one. Eli voiced my thoughts perfectly. ‘“What about this?” He indicated the stone implanted in his hand. “You had plenty of time to tell me afterward.”’ Although, I imagine a younger audience would be so dazzled by wonder and impending danger, they’d not notice.
The Reluctant Wizard is perfect for middle grade and younger YA audiences. There is no cussing, or extreme violence, and the poverty and war themes are handled appropriately. The book is long, over four hundred pages. The first half shows Eli’s normal life and then living and learning about magic at the Academy. At the half way point the story takes a turn, becoming a fast paced race of survival and rescue. This book ends on a cliffhanger which sets up well for book two.
I should mention, the cover didn’t capture me. It felt gothic (which the book isn’t) and the boy looks bored, or worse, evil. In contrast, the world in which this book is set is imaginative with fresh and creative ideas. Eli is an amazing, empathetic character. A young boy of twelve, with a courageous heart, who desires to do the right thing. I loved him. The characters surrounding him are well written, complex and as multi-layered as the plot. I still don’t know if Ykey, with his aloofness and unhelpfulness, is friend or foe!
This is a fantastic book, unique and filled with emotion. If you are a Harry Potter fan or love character driven fantasy, check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
The Reluctant Wizard is an exciting middle grade/YA fantasy created by a talented storyteller. The high quality writing is a perfect blend of imaginative world building and well-crafted suspense. A suspense which kept me turning pages in eagerness, not only to ensure Eli was safe, but to unravel the mysteries of this authentic world. And that’s where this book excelled.
Eli’s world is divided into five districts surrounding central Terra Magicae where the Grand Wizardry Academy exists. Wizards rule, Warlocks raid, everyone is suffering. Against his deceased father’s wishes, Eli enters the mysterious Academy to save his mother and baby brother from starvation. The catch – once he enters, he can never leave!
Terra Magicae is a magical place where rules of time and reality differ. Escorted by Ykey (a wizard apprentice), Eli first meets Scio, a Wizard who is forever asleep. Everything about the Wizards and the wizard realm is an exploration of endless possibilities and imagination. Scio, the Keeper of Knowledge, draws people inside his imagination where not only quills and pages come alive. ‘It walked like a metal spider, banging its feet against the wooden desk.’ Intrigued? Spider typewriters is but one of the marvels Eli uncovers.
Shocking revelations emerge, and what Eli thought he knew is possibly a lie. Enemies might be saviours, but who can be trusted? New friends, Wizards, Warlocks, or a secretive uncle? It makes for tense and thrilling reading, trying to figure out who truly is on Eli’s side.
The prose (besides the superb editing) is filled with emotive description. The body language, action beats and dialogue seamlessly blend together, bringing the characters to life in subtle, but effective ways. Combined with this, the author has a way with creating sound. I particularly liked, ‘Bells rang in a screeching chorus that chattered his teeth, rattled through his neck, and danced down his spine.’ You don’t only see this world through vivid description, you feel it, and hear it.
The magic system relies on source stones (gems) and how they provide power is one of the darker arcs of the story. Using magic has consequences!. On occasion, Eli’s evolving magical abilities appeared spontaneously, and sometimes Wizards don’t use magic when you’d expect them to, which felt a little convenient. Also, the uncle keeping secrets left me frustrated, but I wasn’t the only one. Eli voiced my thoughts perfectly. ‘“What about this?” He indicated the stone implanted in his hand. “You had plenty of time to tell me afterward.”’ Although, I imagine a younger audience would be so dazzled by wonder and impending danger, they’d not notice.
The Reluctant Wizard is perfect for middle grade and younger YA audiences. There is no cussing, or extreme violence, and the poverty and war themes are handled appropriately. The book is long, over four hundred pages. The first half shows Eli’s normal life and then living and learning about magic at the Academy. At the half way point the story takes a turn, becoming a fast paced race of survival and rescue. This book ends on a cliffhanger which sets up well for book two.
I should mention, the cover didn’t capture me. It felt gothic (which the book isn’t) and the boy looks bored, or worse, evil. In contrast, the world in which this book is set is imaginative with fresh and creative ideas. Eli is an amazing, empathetic character. A young boy of twelve, with a courageous heart, who desires to do the right thing. I loved him. The characters surrounding him are well written, complex and as multi-layered as the plot. I still don’t know if Ykey, with his aloofness and unhelpfulness, is friend or foe!
This is a fantastic book, unique and filled with emotion. If you are a Harry Potter fan or love character driven fantasy, check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
December 20, 2022
I met AA Warne and got a signed copy of this book. It's a lovely hardcover version so I'm planning to give it away as a present - after I've read it, of course!
My thoughts were, who should I give it to as I had several candidates of young readers in mind. It was marketed as "for fans of Harry Potter". I know a few younger people who like Harry Potter and magic books.
After reading this, I've decided to give it to a reader who I feel is a more advanced reader for her age. It's not a hard book to read but with the comparison to Harry - I think it's not compared to the light fun and giggles and boarding school japes bit of Harry. It's closer to the bits of Harry that are darker, in terms of mood.
That being said, I don't really like every book being compared to Harry just because it has a magic school in it. This isn't just a Harry Potter rip-off although there are some obvious similarities - boy goes to wizarding school, has some allies and also an enemy and there are some wizarding masters that are more helpful than others.
There aren't that many other similarities. It's a very different story and the wizarding world is quite a different one.
Eli, our hero, does have a very heroic streak - he's always trying to save people and look out for others which can be nice but also sometimes feel a bit too good to be true. He can be a bit annoying with all his questions and his impatient need to do things when you, the reader, knows that's not very smart - but a wizard and a hero still needs to have their flaws. I like characters with flaws so while there were times I cringed at him I found I also liked having somewhere for him to grow. I wouldn't like him to be too perfect.
Which leads into where I found his weakness as a character. Eli is written as having too many magical abilities, I felt. At the end he's asked "is there anything you can't do?" Walk through walls, change looks, become invisible ... he seems to have endless convenient magical abilities that are unexplained and there isn't even a lot explaining how he acquired or learned them or if he sacrificed a lot to get them. I felt this was overdone.
The side characters are fun in this book - Wizard Glo, Khah, Saz, Ykey and Uncle Izaec. In fact, especially Khah.
I was a little disappointed a bit more wasn't done with the Izaec and Eli syncing idea - I think there were a few magicking ideas that were brought up and could have been followed through more but were abandoned.
The plot is somewhat predictable. Don't worry too much about that.
I think it's a fairly enjoyable read for a little darker look at another take on a wizarding world. Eli does want to be a hero and shows himself to be one in a challenging world - he's a character I think younger teens (and maybe a bit younger) would like to follow.
My thoughts were, who should I give it to as I had several candidates of young readers in mind. It was marketed as "for fans of Harry Potter". I know a few younger people who like Harry Potter and magic books.
After reading this, I've decided to give it to a reader who I feel is a more advanced reader for her age. It's not a hard book to read but with the comparison to Harry - I think it's not compared to the light fun and giggles and boarding school japes bit of Harry. It's closer to the bits of Harry that are darker, in terms of mood.
That being said, I don't really like every book being compared to Harry just because it has a magic school in it. This isn't just a Harry Potter rip-off although there are some obvious similarities - boy goes to wizarding school, has some allies and also an enemy and there are some wizarding masters that are more helpful than others.
There aren't that many other similarities. It's a very different story and the wizarding world is quite a different one.
Eli, our hero, does have a very heroic streak - he's always trying to save people and look out for others which can be nice but also sometimes feel a bit too good to be true. He can be a bit annoying with all his questions and his impatient need to do things when you, the reader, knows that's not very smart - but a wizard and a hero still needs to have their flaws. I like characters with flaws so while there were times I cringed at him I found I also liked having somewhere for him to grow. I wouldn't like him to be too perfect.
Which leads into where I found his weakness as a character. Eli is written as having too many magical abilities, I felt. At the end he's asked "is there anything you can't do?" Walk through walls, change looks, become invisible ... he seems to have endless convenient magical abilities that are unexplained and there isn't even a lot explaining how he acquired or learned them or if he sacrificed a lot to get them. I felt this was overdone.
The side characters are fun in this book - Wizard Glo, Khah, Saz, Ykey and Uncle Izaec. In fact, especially Khah.
I was a little disappointed a bit more wasn't done with the Izaec and Eli syncing idea - I think there were a few magicking ideas that were brought up and could have been followed through more but were abandoned.
The plot is somewhat predictable. Don't worry too much about that.
I think it's a fairly enjoyable read for a little darker look at another take on a wizarding world. Eli does want to be a hero and shows himself to be one in a challenging world - he's a character I think younger teens (and maybe a bit younger) would like to follow.
August 30, 2020
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
First off, I LOVE the cover art for this book.
I have been following A.A. Warne for a while now and this book is hands down her best yet. The characters are well-rounded, the setting is fun, imaginative, and 3D, but most importantly, the story is not like others in this genre.
Unlike many middle grade readers, this book has some dark grit to it. The kind of grit that makes you feel and relate to Eli's plight.
I love the twists in Warne's writing but her imagination has truly delivered in The Reluctant Wizard, which left me guessing till the end!
Thankfully, it looks like we'll be seeing a lot more of Eli, based on the ending of this first installment. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Wizards, warlocks, family secrets, and weird magic crystals…
When faced with making a decision that goes against everything his father and family ever told him, Eli chooses to do what’s best for his family and community. Starving, poor, and living in the slums on scraps handed out by the Wizards whose magic could easily feed and provide for all, Eli is barely making it by when tragedy strikes his family.
But when Eli approaches the Wizardry Academy several weeks into the semester, demanding to be re-tested for entry, he begins an unexpected journey of friendship and learning in a place where time and reality are not the same as that of his community—just outside the academy’s walls.
Secrets abound in Terra Magicae—the Wizards Lands where the Academy resides—and soon, Eli makes a discovery that could mean war.
Now, he’s not only trying to save his family and community...he’s also trying to save his friends—but can he first save himself?
The Reluctant Wizard is a middle grade/YA fantasy that is a little dark, a little whimsy, and a lot of fun to read. A.A. Warne has crafted a family-friendly read that can easily be enjoyed by anyone who enjoys fantastical wizardry, unexpected twists, and family-shattering secrets.
First off, I LOVE the cover art for this book.
I have been following A.A. Warne for a while now and this book is hands down her best yet. The characters are well-rounded, the setting is fun, imaginative, and 3D, but most importantly, the story is not like others in this genre.
Unlike many middle grade readers, this book has some dark grit to it. The kind of grit that makes you feel and relate to Eli's plight.
I love the twists in Warne's writing but her imagination has truly delivered in The Reluctant Wizard, which left me guessing till the end!
Thankfully, it looks like we'll be seeing a lot more of Eli, based on the ending of this first installment. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Wizards, warlocks, family secrets, and weird magic crystals…
When faced with making a decision that goes against everything his father and family ever told him, Eli chooses to do what’s best for his family and community. Starving, poor, and living in the slums on scraps handed out by the Wizards whose magic could easily feed and provide for all, Eli is barely making it by when tragedy strikes his family.
But when Eli approaches the Wizardry Academy several weeks into the semester, demanding to be re-tested for entry, he begins an unexpected journey of friendship and learning in a place where time and reality are not the same as that of his community—just outside the academy’s walls.
Secrets abound in Terra Magicae—the Wizards Lands where the Academy resides—and soon, Eli makes a discovery that could mean war.
Now, he’s not only trying to save his family and community...he’s also trying to save his friends—but can he first save himself?
The Reluctant Wizard is a middle grade/YA fantasy that is a little dark, a little whimsy, and a lot of fun to read. A.A. Warne has crafted a family-friendly read that can easily be enjoyed by anyone who enjoys fantastical wizardry, unexpected twists, and family-shattering secrets.
February 25, 2021
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I have read a lot of books that are set at magical academies, but there was something about this one that seemed different. It was gritty and dark. It is about a 12 year old boy that sacrifices almost everything he knows, wishes and his own freedom to keep his family safe. He goes off to a wizardry academy. The more he does to pass the tests and live by there rules he feels there is more going on then he knows. He knew that everything comes with a price and is there times when the price might be to high. Even as an adult I really felt for Eli with each new dark secret that came to light.
September 17, 2023
The Reluctant Wizard by author A. A. Warne is a well-written young adult novel that can be read by anyone who enjoys a good fantasy story with serious feels thrown in. The plot was really interesting, and I was never bored while reading. (Also, I love the new cover
June 28, 2021
Fans of Harry Potter, will be immersed in the story of this young reluctant wizard who is led into challenging the wizarding world, a world beyond the halls of the HP series. Imagination rules; but asking more questions could be problematic - you'll be immersed until the very last page!
August 30, 2020
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
First off, I LOVE the cover art for this book.
I have been following A.A. Warne for a while now and this book is hands down her best yet. The characters are well-rounded, the setting is fun, imaginative, and 3D, but most importantly, the story is not like others in this genre.
Unlike many middle grade readers, this book has some dark grit to it. The kind of grit that makes you feel and relate to Eli's plight.
I love the twists in Warne's writing but her imagination has truly delivered in The Reluctant Wizard, which left me guessing till the end!
Thankfully, it looks like we'll be seeing a lot more of Eli, based on the ending of this first installment. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Wizards, warlocks, family secrets, and weird magic crystals…
When faced with making a decision that goes against everything his father and family ever told him, Eli chooses to do what’s best for his family and community. Starving, poor, and living in the slums on scraps handed out by the Wizards whose magic could easily feed and provide for all, Eli is barely making it by when tragedy strikes his family.
But when Eli approaches the Wizardry Academy several weeks into the semester, demanding to be re-tested for entry, he begins an unexpected journey of friendship and learning in a place where time and reality are not the same as that of his community—just outside the academy’s walls.
Secrets abound in Terra Magicae—the Wizards Lands where the Academy resides—and soon, Eli makes a discovery that could mean war.
Now, he’s not only trying to save his family and community...he’s also trying to save his friends—but can he first save himself?
The Reluctant Wizard is a middle grade/YA fantasy that is a little dark, a little whimsy, and a lot of fun to read. A.A. Warne has crafted a family-friendly read that can easily be enjoyed by anyone who enjoys fantastical wizardry, unexpected twists, and family-shattering secrets.
First off, I LOVE the cover art for this book.
I have been following A.A. Warne for a while now and this book is hands down her best yet. The characters are well-rounded, the setting is fun, imaginative, and 3D, but most importantly, the story is not like others in this genre.
Unlike many middle grade readers, this book has some dark grit to it. The kind of grit that makes you feel and relate to Eli's plight.
I love the twists in Warne's writing but her imagination has truly delivered in The Reluctant Wizard, which left me guessing till the end!
Thankfully, it looks like we'll be seeing a lot more of Eli, based on the ending of this first installment. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Wizards, warlocks, family secrets, and weird magic crystals…
When faced with making a decision that goes against everything his father and family ever told him, Eli chooses to do what’s best for his family and community. Starving, poor, and living in the slums on scraps handed out by the Wizards whose magic could easily feed and provide for all, Eli is barely making it by when tragedy strikes his family.
But when Eli approaches the Wizardry Academy several weeks into the semester, demanding to be re-tested for entry, he begins an unexpected journey of friendship and learning in a place where time and reality are not the same as that of his community—just outside the academy’s walls.
Secrets abound in Terra Magicae—the Wizards Lands where the Academy resides—and soon, Eli makes a discovery that could mean war.
Now, he’s not only trying to save his family and community...he’s also trying to save his friends—but can he first save himself?
The Reluctant Wizard is a middle grade/YA fantasy that is a little dark, a little whimsy, and a lot of fun to read. A.A. Warne has crafted a family-friendly read that can easily be enjoyed by anyone who enjoys fantastical wizardry, unexpected twists, and family-shattering secrets.
June 22, 2024
A young boy named Eli is forced to take a desperate decision to keep his poor family from starving. He enters the Grand Wizardry Academy, a place no-one has ever left. He finds himself in the middle of a war between wizards and warlocks, and he has no choice but to become a rebel to try and save everyone he holds dear.
This is a middle-grad/YA book that is truly for all ages. If you enjoyed book series such as Narnia, Septimus Heap or The Spook's Apprentice, you'll love this one as well!
The plot is complex, but easy to follow. The characters are unfurling the further you read, and your first impressions won't always hold true. The magic system is well thought out and not one I've encountered before on this scale. It deals with the darker themes really well, and doesn't shelter the reader while at the same time keeping it age appropriate.
* I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. *
This is a middle-grad/YA book that is truly for all ages. If you enjoyed book series such as Narnia, Septimus Heap or The Spook's Apprentice, you'll love this one as well!
The plot is complex, but easy to follow. The characters are unfurling the further you read, and your first impressions won't always hold true. The magic system is well thought out and not one I've encountered before on this scale. It deals with the darker themes really well, and doesn't shelter the reader while at the same time keeping it age appropriate.
* I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. *
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