This new fantasy series has a familiar plot line of a boy discovering his magical abilities but with plenty of surprising twists. We first meet twelve-year-old Thomas Wildus as a loving son going to school and spending time with his mom and a best friend, Enrique. Then he wanders into a book store and is given a copy of The Book Of Sorrows to read. His concept of who he is and the world around him begin to change.

Memories of his father’s final words seven years prior have renewed meaning… “Magic is real Thomas. No matter what happens, always remember that magic is real.” He’s never been able to find evidence of those words until now. It’s a journey that takes him from California to places around the globe, giving him insights into his own talents and heritage.

Told in third person, the storytelling stays close to Thomas. The focus is on good versus evil and figuring out which side is which. The page turning climax reveals the answer and will have you wanting to read more about Thomas. Thankfully, the wait won’t be long with the soon to be release of Thomas Wildus and the Wizard of Sumeria, book 2 in the series.

Until then you’ll find this story weaves our modern world perfectly with ancient magic, giving readers an adventurous ride with plenty of memorable characters.

PUBLICATION DATE: 2019   PAGE COUNT: 364

THE OFFICIAL BLURB (From AMAZON)

THOMAS WILDUS AND THE BOOK OF SORROWS

1. Thomas shines as the main character. His interests are typical for a twelve year old, including a first crush. You’ll find yourself attached to this kid with his changing mood and emotions.
2. Enrique makes a nice secondary character. His family situation is different from Thomas and their connection was one of those surprising twists.
3. The different types of magic are a fun part of the story. I need the same ability, especially after I’ve forgotten something from home!
4. Short excerpts of The Book of Sorrow, the book Thomas is asked to read, are shared The old English is not easy reading, but there is enough after thought thrown to help one’s comprehension. You haveth been warneth.
5. The elements I look for in a fantasy read are all here: enduring characters, new worlds explored, and an exciting story.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR (From J.M. Bergen’s website)

Once upon a time, in a galaxy far far away…
J.M. Bergen graduated from the University of Arizona with a degree in creative writing, a minor in business, and a head full of dreams.Over the years his writing has appeared in a variety of publications under a variety of pen names, and though his favorite stories feature magic and adventure, his best-known work to date has been non-fiction. J.M.’s debut series originally started as a bedtime story for his oldest son. The story turned into a saga, and one book turned into five.

The first book in the series, Thomas Wildus and The Book of Sorrows, is scheduled for release in February 2019. The second, Thomas Wildus and The Wizard of Sumeria, will be published in late 2019, with the remainder of the series released before the end of 2021.

When J.M. isn’t working on the Thomas Wildus books, you can find him playing with his kids, napping, or dreaming up new adventures. If you ever meet him and can’t think of anything to talk about, you might ask about Herman the Shark, the Kai and Eli stories, or why Riddle-Master by Patricia McKillip is his all-time favorite book. Or maybe, just maybe, you’ll have questions and stories of your own (if you do, he’ll think that’s far more interesting).

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I was given an ARC for an honest review.

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