Artezans: The Forgotten Magic: Book 1

By Author / Illustrator

L.D. Lapinski

Genre

Magical Realism

Age range(s)

Publisher

Orion Children's Books

ISBN

9781510110090

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

29-02-2024

Synopsis

Prepare for the magical adventure of your dreams, in the first in a brand-new series by L.D. Lapinski, author of Strangeworlds Travel Agency. 'A stupendous, witty, humane fantasy. Lapinski's done it again - an inventive, compelling world and characters I would die for. LD Lapinski is a genius!' Louie Stowell, author of 'Loki: A Bad God's Guide' series

For the last 400 years, magic has been fading... Edward Crane has always feared he won't have any magic at all. Sure, he's part of a powerful magic Artezan family, but he's adopted. His twin sister, Elodie, isn't so worried, but then everything always seems to work out perfectly for her.

So when Ed discovers he does have an Artezan power after all, he's relieved. And it's more than he ever could have imagined - in fact, it's a dream come true. But the problem with dreams is that sometimes they twist themselves into nightmares. And with Ed's new abilities growing by the day, there's a chance that this nightmare will become all too real...

Download Extract

Reviews

Twins Edward and Elodie Crane are part of a magical family. Their dads are Artezans - 'ones who can wield magic that flows through them'. Every summer they host a special camp where Artezans from all over, unite, and where those transitioning from primary school to secondary school can find their magic and have a summer to practise and hone their skills.

This should be the best summer ever for Edward and Elodie, but Edward is not so sure. The twins are adopted and Edward fears that being part of the adopted family does not mean he will have magical powers. He watches his sister - jealousy and love flowing through him in equal measure. He sees the ease and confidence she has, how popular, clever and happy she is - she can really do no wrong. He hopes and worries that she will be magical, whilst fearing that he will come second best...again.

On the day of their 'Reveal', Elodie’s magical power is bright and clear, and Edward's is confusing and dark. He feels duped again and struggles to see the positives that his Reveal will bring. As Edward discovers the hidden depths of his magic and learns more of the ancient history of Artezan Masters of old, he realises the true responsibility that comes with his powers. When his sister is taken from him, Edward knows that he must face his deepest fears, in the Land of Dreams and Nightmares, if he is ever going to get her back.

L D Lapinski's Artezans: The Forgotten Magic is a stunningly captivating first book in what is sure to be a fantastic series. The reader is instantly sucked into Edward’s world as we follow his angst and share in his inner turmoil as he faces his demons. The ebb and flow of interwoven relationships and undiscovered truths keep readers on their toes as they race to the nail-biting ending.

The fact that this promises to be the first in a series can only be a wonderful thing. I, for one, am desperate to know what will happen next.

Reading age: 9+ Curriculum links: sibling rivalry, friendship, loneliness, perseverance, bullying, determination, morals, strength of character, belief, same-sex relationships, hope.

384 / Reviewed by Donna Burkert, teacher