The Reading Bud

Book Details:

Author: Marie Lukic 
Release Date: April 2025
Series: Kingdom of Nerada (Book #2)
Genre: Fantasy, Middle Grade
Format: E-book 
Pages: 105 pages
Publisher: –
Blurb:
Dottimar returns to the sunken sea kingdom and desperately tries to awaken her son, rainbow dragon, Cathoundral, who has been enchanted by Orange Faery. Ancient faery Verimetus and her grand-daughter, Blue Lantern faery, Vermial, lead Triton, the dragons and the merfolk into the Abyss in an attempt to find Triton’s missing daughter, Princess Sirena Mirashal.

Review

If you’re someone who loves classic fairy tale energy (think shimmering kingdoms, ancient magic, enchanted creatures, and brave quests) then The Faery Enchantment by Marie Lukic is bound to charm you. Author Lukic has created a rich, imaginative world where dragons, merfolk, and faeries collide in a story brimming with wonder, danger, and heartfelt moments.

At its heart, this is a tale of family, loyalty, and the lengths we’ll go to save the ones we love. Dottimar’s desperation to save her rainbow dragon son, Cathoundral, sets the tone for a story full of high-stakes adventure. Meanwhile, Verimetus and Vermial (who might just be my favorite characters) add layers of ancient wisdom and courage to this already magical narrative.

The underwater scenes are beautifully rendered and feel lush and vivid, and the blend of folklore with fantasy is handled with a delicate, almost lyrical touch. Author Lukic’s world-building feels expansive and lived-in, with hints of deeper mythology beneath the surface.

While I loved the story, at times, the pacing felt a little uneven. Certain sections could have been tighter to keep the momentum flowing, especially for younger readers who thrive on action and clarity. However, the richness of the world and the warmth of the characters more than make up for it.

The Faery Enchantment is perfect for fans of The Water Horse or The Spiderwick Chronicles, those who love their fantasy with a splash of wonder, heart, and a dash of darkness.

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