The Secret of the Laurel Crown, by Andrea MacVicar, is a creative journey into an alternate reality. When troubled teenager, Carolyn, dumps out the 500 pieces of the puzzle her grandmother bought for her at a garage sale, she finds a secret message that ultimately leads her and her brother to life-threatening adventures on the planet of the Double Suns.I found this tale imaginative and engaging. The young heroine, Carolyn, was a sympathetic character, and it was easy to cheer her on. The fantasy aspects of the story drew me right in, and I found them a departure from many of the more expected fantasy elements, which I enjoyed. The experience reminded me a little of reading Madeline L’Engle as a young woman.
While I think the book is more accurately targeted to a young adult readership, I loved it! It was a welcome change from the typical fare and left me musing on some of its deeper concepts. There was much that was cleverly executed and the action and good characterization keeps the reader engaged. I’m glad the author sent me a review copy.
I do need to share a couple of caveats. I’m not sure about the process with Thomas Nelson’s new self-publishing arm, Westbow Press, who published this book, but I do think the book would have benefited from another layer of editing. Also, conservative parents should know there is an instance where the character cussed and several where it was inferred. Still, I believe this book would be an imaginative experience for young people and offers a beautiful message for them to ponder.
About the author:
Andrea MacVicar holds a doctorate from Kingsway Christian College and Theological Seminary and is a member of the America Association of Christian Counselors. She is also the author of Tales of Zoftic–the Story of a Black Labrador. She resides with her husband, Mark, and Princess, their rescued greyhound, in Coral Springs, Florida.
A note about reviews on GraceReign: Federal law requires that bloggers disclose whether they are reviewing books of their own accord, or have been asked to by an author or publisher.While I do both on GraceReign, I want readers to know that if I don’t like a book sent to me, I typically simply don’t review it rather than give a negative review. I work hard to be honest on GR about the books I share. I have a wider ability to enjoy stories than many people, liking everything from “fluffy” romances that the “literary” readers don’t like to the more literary novels that many readers find “too slow.” Because I have such a wide appreciation for many styles of writing, I try to let my readers know which type of book I’m reviewing so they can use their own discernment when buying a book.
