PLUS a Tommy Nelson Mommy Giveaway!

Do you ever wonder where authors come up with their ideas?

So. Do. I.

Sometimes it bogs my mind when I dig into a new book (especially if it’s fantasy), and I’m saying, “Wish I’d thought of that.” But even more importantly, I find myself constantly amazed at fantasy authors who can weave a subtle message into their stories without sounding preachy. It inspires me in my own writing, and drives me to work toward the same end. I think instilling a love for reading in our kids is vital, but I also think finding clean reads that are fun and entertaining are just as crucial. After all, they won’t love to read if the story isn’t stellar, am I right?

About Search for the Shadow Key…

In this second installment in Wayne Thomas Batson’s Dreamtreaders Series, Dreamtreader Archer Keaton finds himself facing bigger challenges than ever. With his friends lost to the Dream after staying past their Personal Midnights, Archer must move forward and work to seal the rifts in the Dream fabric–before it’s too late. Dream Inc. isn’t making Archer’s task easy, what with wanting to take it’s patrons on Dream “safaris”. When weird turns to weirder and Archer’s hometown is threatened, he must seek out the Shadow Key if he’s going to save the Waking World from a terrible nightmare.

“You must always know upon what you stand…shattered glass might be glued back together, but it can never be unbroken.” ~ from the Dreamtreader’s Creed, Conceptus 10, Search for the Shadow Key

Why I recommend Search for the Shadow Key…

A) Wayne Thomas Batson has done it again! My first experience with his writing was when I read The Door Withn two years ago. The message in that book was so powerful (and subtle at the same time), I (a grown up) cried at the end. If a middle grade book can do that…just wow…the writing is totally out of this world, ya know? Batson weaves a story so fantastical, boys and girls (and adults apparently) will be on the edge of their seats, rooting for Archer Keaton and booing the bad guys trying to get in his way. Hurray for a book (series) that kept me flipping pages to the end (at all hours of the night) and thirsting for more.

B) Beginning and End. Not only does Search for the Shadow Key have a hook of an opening that reels you right into the action, but the end was just as good. When you pick up this book, don’t expect to catch a break in the middle. Get ready for mystery, intrigue, and a final page that will leave you with hope and a craving for what Wayne Thomas Batson will cook up next. I love the quote above. To me it sums of Search for the Shadow Key quite nicely. No matter what, you have to know what you stand for, and well, stand for it. The story addresses the issues of peer pressure and temptation, and standing for what’s right even when it isn’t easy.  I felt Archer became a stronger person after all he dealt with, and I really thought he was a great role model tweens will find relatable. Which brings me to…

C) Strong, dynamic, (and flawed), characters. Even though Search for the Shadow Key is an MG read, the author doesn’t slack on creating characters with human problems and emotions. Besides the story world (which is so creative and awesome it speaks for itself. I mean exploring dreams? Why didn’t I think of that?), Batson’s characters are people we love to love (and hate, as the case may be). I loved Archer, and I don’t generally relate to male leads in books. As I read through his struggles and triumphs I found myself so engrossed, I almost felt like I was there with him. Bravo, Wayne Thomas Batson. This YA lovin’ book nerd is totally sold on the Dreamtreaders series. I recommend it for boys and girls ages 9 and older.

The Giveaway…

I love having the blessed opportunity to share Thomas Nelson resources with you all. Let’s hear it for Tommy Nelson Mommy for bringing us another sweet giveaway!

What’s the best way your kids have successfully resisted peer pressure, even when they stand out from the crowd?

Tell me in a comment below, and you’ll be entered to win a copy of Search for the Shadow Key. Don’t forget to record your entry via the Rafflecopter, where you can earn even more entries by connecting with me and Tommy Nelson on social media. The giveaway will run through Saturday, January 31st. One random winner will be chosen and announced in my February Newsletter, so be sure to enter your email in the form below.

 

I love hearing from you! Tweet to me @SaraEllaWrites. Until then, happy reading!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:

I received a copy of Search for the Shadow Key through the Tommy Nelson Mommy Program. I was not asked to write a positive review. All views and opinions expressed are solely and completely my own. I received no compensation other than a copy of the book featured in this post, which is mine to keep. This post also contains affiliate links. To learn more, please read my full policy.

Copyright © 2015 SaraElla.com