Haphaven is an emotional trek through a brilliantly rendered fantasy world, filled with life lessons and battles against strange foes. The novel is a unique take on the grief of losing a loved one and the fight to overcome that grief to continue living your best life. Luck isn’t enough to live on, and through the many trials and tribulations of our heroine, we discover what it takes to keep the enemies at bay.
This is a deeply emotional journey, following a girl forced to come to terms with the loss of her father and the impending loss of her mother. She clings to superstitions because she doesn’t believe in herself, putting her fate in the hands of rituals that can’t save her. Her journey becomes more complicated as she tries to follow the rules of superstitions and instead discovers a more sinister plot. The author has done a great job showing this battle between luck and life, and the importance of believing in yourself when the going gets rough. The world itself is filled with magical wonders, including leprechauns in full fantasy battle gear, airships straight out of a steampunk novel, and anthropomorphic who rule the land.
The highlight of the novel is the intricate portrayal of the fantasy world, filled as it is with creatures and wonders aplenty. We see what’s on the other side of the rainbow, and it’s as bright and whimsical as it is dark and dreary. There’s a light and dark side to everything, and that’s an important aspect throughout. The artist balances between the deep story and the fun of a magical land.
Haphaven is sure to be a great read for kids and adults alike. You’ll find a story that’s thoughtful and well written, paired with artwork that perfectly portrays this magical land and its many mysteries.
NOTE: I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
Haphavev
Written by Norm Harper
Artwork by Louie Joyce
Published by Roar
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