This book reminded me of a fantastical version of Annie. An orphan longing to know their true identity goes on a journey to discover who they really are. A must read for fans of C.S. Lewis and Tolkien. My kids loved it and we can’t wait to read the next one!

I feel like the author didn't know if he wanted to write an innocent middle grade novel or a full scale horror-ish, adventure young adult novel. The descriptions of actions and paths the characters are taking, the other world world building, and character development were a bit off but the descriptions of Hamelin's childhood was nice.

This is a well written fantasy story. Hamelin is left by his parents on the steps of a childrens home to save his life. While his parents are taken back to the other realm Hamelin is raised in this time in West Texas. As he grows up he starts to encounter strange things and at one point is taken to meet his destiny but he isn't ready to move beyond his fear. With the help of his friends from the childrens home he is able to piece together more of his past and discover what might have happened to his parents. This story really fleshed out the characters in this series and I felt really invested in Hamelin and success. The magical mysteries aren't fully revealed to us in this story but I'm hoping we learn more in future books. This is a good start to a new series. I can't wait to read about what awaits Hamelin in the other realm and whether he missed his opportunity to change things when he tried to get there the first time.

I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys fantasy and who may have liked the Narnia series.

I really liked this book alot. It had depth and emotion to it. It is for young and old both to read. I can't wait to start book 2

Wow!! What a great story!! It held me captivated most of the night and when I looked up it was daylight! I thought wow! Where did the night go lol!
But really I truly enjoyed what was happening in the book. In fact I was in the book itself! I was at the mouth of the cave right along with Ben, Layla and Hamelin and wanting to fall into it! Now that was creepy!
I immediately loved the older couple that moved into rhe children's home except that I couldn't stand the lady's sing songy voice. For some reason it grated on my nerves! I guess cause I could actually hear her doing it!! I will say she did have a heart of gold!
This series in a way reminds me of the Harry Potter series but much better!!
The author has done a great job on this book on bringing the characters to life and taking me along for the ride.
This is a young adult book but I still liked it because it was a refreshing read. I loved it too that it was told in 1st person ( I can connect better when it's told in 1st person) and not present tense. A very delicious and delightful read!
My thanks to the publisher for an early read of this book NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.

this was a neat young adult novel, I read the three together and they were exactly how I wanted my young adult series to go. The world was built wonderfully and magically and the characters were great, The first book in the series was a good start and each book got better.