I’m always a bit reluctant to jump into a series with the second book without having read the first. Not to worry as I had no problem settling into the character and plot of HELENA FLINN AND THE FLICKERING REALMS.

Reading the back cover description was the first assurance that I would not be confused:

Nearly a year has passed since Helena and the Nightmare Squad defeated the ancient evil haunting Vienna. Life has never been the same: she now slips between her world and the goblin city beneath it, helping her friends in the dream factories and finally knowing what it feels like to belong.

In this story Helena is now 12, and she is beginning to see some disturbing trends in the dream world along with strange events unfolding in the goblin city. She has special nocturnal energy (NE) that can take her into other’s dreams so with the help of her goblin friend Drizzle and her human friends (the Nightmare Squad) she sets out to solve this mystery. If she can’t find a solution then the end will come to the goblin and waking world of Vienna.

Helena is a shy girl and getting to know her was a highlight. As the plot unfolds she becomes more confident with being a leader and asking questions when needed. Her parents are supportive and along with younger sister Maddie, Helena’s family makes her life better. They only appear in the plot when needed, but it’s always a positive when they do.

The majority of the story takes place under the city of Vienna where the world building marvelously unfolds. Visiting there is usually in the middle of the night when Helena can meet up with Drizzle. I thought my sleep hours were bad!

The fantasy elements and scientific aspects of dreams were expertly woven together. That union provides a unique reading experience sure to please upper middle grade readers (and us older ones, too) who like a carefully plotted fantasy. The exciting climatic ending scenes are worth your time getting there. There is also a cliff hanger at the end that will encourage you look for Book 3 later this year when the adventure continues.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: December 5, 2025 PAGES: 295

If you would prefer to begin at the start of the series with Helena Flinn and the Secrets of the Night you can take a closer look here.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: HELENA FLINN AND THE FLICKERING REALMS by Michael Sokolar

1. Minor characters are often forgotten but not with darling little Noxi. You’ll wish for one of your own even though that is not possible given her fantasy background..
2. Included are several full page illustrations that elevate the story even more. You’ll be looking at them again they are so well crafted.
3. There’s no bickering or back stabbing among Helena’s friends. They are kind and supportive to each other.
4. The unique and creative magical system.
5. Excellent back pages including excerpts from Helena’s grandfather’s Journal of Kornelius Flinn and the Shilwani Guide of Curious Contraptions. You could even read these first before diving into the main story.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I’m a person wearing many hats – I’m a digital storyteller, writer, director, producer, organizer, strategic thinker, creative, maker, and most importantly, father of two lovely girls that mean the life to me.

With a background in Software Engineering, I’ve always had a passion for writing. After earning my Bachelor’s Degree, I transitioned into the film industry, starting as a production assistant. Over the years, I eventually became a director for children’s television and commercials.

In 2014, I founded Little Lights Studio, a film and storytelling studio dedicated to producing authentic brand films, emotional and evocative commercials, and story-driven campaigns. Our projects often focus on sustainability and always have a human touch.

For most of my life, I’ve been crafting stories. Now, with the forthcoming release of my debut middle-grade novel in 2024, I proudly embrace the title of author. This novel is the first in a trilogy, marking the beginning of an exciting new challenge for me. My passion lies in exploring underdog tales that celebrate friendship and the journey to find one’s place in the world. Fantasy is my favorite genre, and I relish every moment of the writing process, from world-building to outlining and writing itself.

At Little Lights Studio, we thrive on creating projects that connect with people on an emotional level, and I bring this same passion to my writing. Whether through film or literature, my goal is to tell stories that inspire and resonate. (Michael’s Author Website)

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BE SURE TO VISIT ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS ON TODAY’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!