Product Description
MAX MCDANIELS LIVES a quiet life in the suburbs of Chicago, until the day he stumbles upon a mysterious Celtic tapestry. Many strange people are interested in Max and his tapestry. His discovery leads him to Rowan Academy, a secret school where great things await him.
But dark things are waiting, too. When Max learns that priceless artworks and gifted children are disappearing, he finds himself in the crossfire of an ancient struggle between good and evil. To survive, he’ll have to rely on a network of agents and mystics, the genius of his roommate, and the frightening power awakening within him.
G. Sarab @ 11:54 pm
This is the start of a series (not unlike Harry Potter – but thankfully different) that follows a group of children who are recruited (by mysterious means) to attend a spooky, wonderful, unique school in New England. The characters are well defined – you really get a feel for each different person – and the non-human characters are inventive and interesting. The author manages to weave in some celtic mythology, fairy tale creatures and beasts totally from his imagination (which are pretty scary). This may be a book published for teens but it’s a great read. It keeps you guessing with twists and turns, goodies, baddies and strange mystic happenings. I definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well told tale of adventure and magic. Plus the illustrations are beautiful. I wish the author all luck for this series – I think he’s filling J.K. Rowlings shoes admirably.
Joshua Richards @ 1:45 am
This is an incredible read. The story of Max’s journey blends mythology and art history into a wild ride that explores the relationships of father and son, teacher and student, compatriots, and ultimately heroes. The writing style instantly sweeps both you and Max into a world that is as believable as it is fantastical.
This is not for the faint of heart, as darkness is barely held at arms length and the struggle to overcome has just begun. It is, however, for both the young and old.
The stage for the second book in the series is set masterfully and one can’t help but imagine the trilogy on the big screen.
Mallyn @ 2:12 am
Reading The Hound of Rowan was an utter treat. I kept finding myself transported to Rowan; it truly lives on these pages. The characters are created to be believable, and, with one exception, the character names are well-chosen and not silly or gimmicky. I also really appreciate that this book is literally well written – the grammar is gorgeous without being stuffy or dull (this is a true gift for an English teacher – I will enjoy using Hound as a tool for inspiring student writers). The comparisons to HP are inevitable, but I believe this series stands on its own, and I am so excited to read book 2!
D. Stanwick @ 2:26 am
I picked up this book earlier today and was completely captivated by the end of the first chapter. A rich, vivid and adventurous tale that keeps you turning page after page in anticipation of what is coming next. A few twists and turns, memorable, real characters that you root for, and a fast pace will keep you reading and wanting more. While, there are some similarities to the Harry Potter seriers, this book and (I’m sure the forthcoming books in the series) clearly stands on its own two feet with the ease and polish of a well told tale.
Anonymous @ 4:49 am
a masterful story that will insight a reader to journey beyond the realms of imagination. The Hound of Rowan has some wonderfully engaging characters that will keep the reader wondering the characters true intentions. The story is a bit like Harry Potter, but with a more absorbing plot lines and twists that will keep you guessing until the end. This book is definitely a must read, it is not just for children, but will also engage adults too. I encourage everyone to read this book, as you will not regret it!