THE GIRL ABOVE… Strange things happen to fifteen-year-old Lavida Mors. Maybe that’s why her father sends her away to Portal Manor, a mysterious family estate she has never seen. Lavida quickly discovers that not everything at Portal Manor is as it seems when she stumbles across a secret passage to a hidden world–Anaedor.

THE WORLD BELOW… Anaedor lies deep beneath the surface, separated from humanity, populated by mythical creatures. It is these same creatures who take Lavida captive.

THE PROPHECY BINDS THEM… Malevolent forces, led by the evil Malvado, seek to control all of Anaedor, but an ancient prophecy tells of a hero who will save these denizens of the deep.

The chronicles of Anaedor is the first in the trilogy in this fast paced adventure where good battles evil. Kristina Schram has really set the bar high for the others in the series. The story is set in the world of Anaedor – a place where creatures of all kinds exists in a world of bottomless pits and dark and dank caverns.

Characters: Schram’s characters each bring there own fun, adventure and charm to the novel. Our main character Lavida fights for what she believes in with determination, courage and inspiration. She tackles her fears with humor and compassion which can only be applauded for what she is up against. Lavida’s raccoon Penny deserves to be mentioned here because personally I adored her. I couldn’t help but laugh at her in some parts of the story.

Originality: For me this book was one of a kind. I really enjoyed exploring and seeing Anaedor for the first time with Lavida. The creatures of Anaedor were all new and original and they where interesting to read about. This novel of good Vs evil brings a rawness to the YA industry that has yet to be seen in many other novels I have read this year.

Plot: This book had a really great plot, it’s adventurous and funny in all the right places. Lavida launches herself into a hidden world of magical creatures whether they be big or small, smelly or ugly, good or evil and by the end of this book , you will certainly be wanting more and desperate to know what happens next in the story.

Writing: I found the Chronicles of Anaedor to be a well written book for young adults. The book reads very easily and the snappy, humorous dialogue is realistic and enchanting. Schram’s simple yet exciting writing style engages its audience very well. Kristina also has a delightful imagination and the creativity of her book is outstanding. This author’s talent shines though the entire book and it is very easy to imagine the world in which she has created.

Kelly’s Rating: I would highly recommend this book for children and teenagers. All in all I thought this book was a brilliant start for Schram’s Chronicles of Anaedor, and I hope to see a sequel someday soon.

 ½