Length: 276 pages

Publication Date: November 1, 2026

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

In 1877, Edgar and Charlotte Precious, and Mary, Charles, and Jules Doyle visit their friend, Professor Peabody. He has returned from an adventure and wants to share his experiences with the children. As they listen to the dramatic recollection of the professor, they all decide to help him. After finding a map with a mysterious word, Professor Peabody decides he needs to go on a quest. This map has reignited his wishes to find his missing father and a magical place called Ber’Ebrin. The children have enjoyed tromping around the woods and imagining various adventures with the professor, even adopting the clever name of the Inklings. This time the adventure will be real – not imaginary.

This ingenious story takes readers on a wild trip into another world inhabited by creatures different than any imaginary creatures they’ve ever encountered. The children face challenges, threats, and evil. They discover strength in their unity. As friends and siblings, there are the inevitable squabbles. Who is to be their leader? The book begins slowly, having to establish the setting and characters. Once readers know the Inklings and their environment, the excitement begins. As the children and professor travel through a portal, the pace accelerates. Around every corner and on each page, something surprising is encountered.

This book is creative and innovative. I could see similarities to The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Remember other young adult fantasies like A Wrinkle In Time? There are hints of those here too. The author challenges readers to find 200+ easter eggs throughout this story. Brent K. Newcomb is clever. Young adult readers will appreciate this fresh fantasy with a Victorian twist. The very best news? This is volume 1, and we are fortunate to be able to have further adventures with this charming group.

Anyone with an imagination will enjoy reading this book. This is an excellent beginning of a series and leaves you wondering where the next book will take us. Enjoy!

My Rating: 🌻🌻🌻🌻/5