A Blog of Books and Tea

(Advance Reader’s Copy (ARC))

Tropes:

• Memory Loss 🧠
• Mysterious School 🏫
• Unrequited Love ❤️‍🩹
• Power of Friendship 🫂
• Corrupt Leadership
• Grumpy Mentor 😠
• No Way Out🚫

Stars – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Synopsis – When Lucas wakes up in a shipping container with no memories, he is thrust into a world where nothing is as it seems, filled with shadows and secrets. From the moment he is dragged from the box, disoriented and frightened, he finds himself in a frantic flight for his life, pursued by malignant forces that will stop at nothing to capture him. As he struggles to piece together the fragments of his identity, he meets Professor Steele, an enigmatic figure who becomes both a mentor and a guide. Lucas soon discovers he is enrolled in Drekorn Hall – a mysterious school where he is already behind in his “training,” a term that feels more like a threat than an education. The sprawling hallways seem to speak of power and peril, and it is soon very apparent that Lucas is not like the others; his abilities stir curiosity and fear among his peers, marking him as both an outsider and a target in this strange new realm filled with danger and intrigue.

Thoughts- I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the first page, I was transported into a world of mystery and intrigue, which piqued my interest instantly. The author’s vivid descriptions and compelling characters drew me in deeper, making it impossible to put the book down. Every twist and turn kept me on the edge of my seat, creating an atmosphere of suspense that lingered long after I finished reading. As the story unfolded, I found myself emotionally invested in the fates of the characters, eagerly anticipating their next moves and the secrets that were yet to be revealed. This enthralling narrative not only entertained me but also sparked a sense of curiosity that made me reflect on the intricate layers of the plot long after the final page was turned.

As we learn more about Lucas, it is hard not to admire the sass that seems to embody this character. His hilarious one-liners add a layer of lightheartedness that contrasts with his perplexing situation, allowing readers to engage with his journey in a more enjoyable way. Each quip he delivers not only showcases his sharp wit but also serves as a coping mechanism for the challenges he faces. As the narrative unfolds, we see how Lucas uses humor to navigate the complexities of his world, turning moments of tension into opportunities for levity, which ultimately deepens our connection to him and makes his struggles all the more relatable.

Throughout the story, Lucas makes many friends along the way, each one uniquely contributing to his journey. No matter how much he fought against it, these friendships serve as a powerful reminder that sometimes the right friends will always have your back, providing unwavering support and compassion during difficult times. They stand by him, even when he makes incredibly questionable choices, often challenging him to reflect on his actions while simultaneously offering understanding and loyalty. As Lucas navigates through various challenges, the bonds he forms with these friends not only help him grow but also illuminate the profound impact genuine connections can have on his life and decisions.

Overall, this book was an enjoyable read, filled with intriguing plot twists and well-developed characters that kept me engaged from start to finish. The author skillfully crafted a world that was rich in detail, making it easy to become completely immersed in the narrative. It has been left open for a second book, which has me eagerly anticipating the next installment. I am looking forward returning to The Hollow and continuing Lucas’ journey in future books, as I believe there are many more adventures and challenges awaiting him that will further explore his character and relationships.