Synopsis
What manner of legends might darkness conceal?
Darkness, no fourteen-year-old should fear. Or so Bastian believes until he discovers that, in the dark, hides a terror known only to old English legends—a terror that’s stalked him since the day he was born.
England’s Sylphic Kingdom, peopled with its Forest Children and Faeries, its Oakmen and Sunwalkers and Sprites, awaits the coming-of-age of its hero—the Sun Child. For at the hand of a Wight Witch, risen to great power, the Sylphic Kingdom stands on the brink of destruction. And with its fall, so too will perish the natural world.
To discover what hunts him, to understand why, Bastian must realize that some legends, holding both wonders and terrors, are real. And to protect his family, Bastian—a boy who fears the dark, who fears the fight—must face dire challenges and win Sylphic allies. And he must wake his courage. For to unlock the secret to the Wight Witch's defeat, he must embrace who he was born to be, even at the cost of his life.
What Manner of Legends Might Darkness Conceal? is a captivating and richly detailed novel that masterfully merges fantasy with the real world. Following the journey of 13-year-old Bastian, this story explores themes of courage, familial love, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of the mysterious Sylphic Kingdom and its fascinating folklore.
The novel begins with Bastian’s move to Kingfisher Chalet in England, where his passion for Sylphic legends takes root. His training in Ryudo martial arts and his discovery of an ancient text reveal a world of magic and danger hidden in plain sight. When his baby brother's birth coincides with a dark prophecy, Bastian must confront his fears and accept his destiny as part of the Sun Child legend.
Wagner’s storytelling excels in its world-building, drawing readers into the enchanting Sylphic lore. The detailed descriptions make the mythical creatures, landscapes, and legends feel tangible and real. The writing is poetic yet accessible, appealing to readers who enjoy immersive tales with a magical realism flair.
The characters are well-developed, especially Bastian, whose growth from a frightened boy to a brave protector is both inspiring and relatable. The family dynamics are heartfelt and authentic, adding emotional depth and grounding the fantastical elements. Comparisons to A Wrinkle in Time are apt, as this story shares a similar blend of familial love and otherworldly adventure.
While the pacing is balanced, combining slow-burn suspense with bursts of intense action, some readers may wish for a deeper exploration of the Wight Witch’s motivations. Nevertheless, this minor flaw doesn’t detract from the book’s overall impact.
This is a beautifully crafted tale for young adult and older readers who delight in exploring the extraordinary possibilities of our world through a magical lens.
One-Line Review:
An enchanting blend of magic, courage, and family, this poetic tale immerses readers in a richly crafted world where legends come alive.
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