Title: Axel: The Mysterious Tapestry
Author: Adelpha L. DeGuzman
Publisher: Independently published
ISBN: 979-8871869796
Pages: 238
Genre: Fantasy
Reviewed by: Liz Konkel
Hollywood Book Reviews
An imaginative fantasy adventure, Axel: The Mysterious Tapestry, by author Adelpha L. DeGuzman is playful, and filled with themes of family, destiny, and becoming a hero.
Axel received a strange gift on his eleventh birthday. A mysterious tapestry which he’s told will change his life and transform his future into something extraordinary. Now at fourteen, he discovers the true purpose of the gift: to whisk him away for an epic adventure in a magical kingdom on the verge of destruction thanks to an evil entity. Slowly his destiny comes together, and he learns that he is meant to gather twelve celestial gems with trips to twelve tribes and put them together to create a weapon powerful enough to save the kingdom from destruction. The first takes him to the Libra, Taurus, and Cancer tribes. Each retrieval comes with obstacles that could prevent him from putting the weapon together as he fulfills his role as the Chosen One.
The story begins with New Year’s Eve with Axel as a baby, which is a clever way to set the stage for changes that are coming and sets a tone for the following adventure. The story quickly sets up that Axel is a Chosen One figure as mystery revolves around him and this continues as events jump thirteen years later. Once again time is purposefully marked by New Year’s Eve which represents change and welcomes something new as the previous year is bid farewell. This becomes literal for Axel as he discovers the purpose of the tapestry and the kingdom that depends on him to save it. The tapestry is the catalyst for what whisks Axel into the adventure and bridges a way between his home and the kingdom. This unique foray sets the tone for the attitude and magical style of the kingdom. Axel’s journey is reminiscent of classic hero adventures such as King Arthur where the fate of a kingdom falls on a young boy’s shoulders.
The longing for home is a consistent theme throughout as he faces each challenge and the rise of his power. No matter the thrill, danger, or challenge he finds himself against, Axel is grounded in his desire to be home with his family. These relationships are a necessary part of any fantasy as they pull you away from the magical elements and remind you of what it means to be human. The sibling dynamic feels genuine as they tease each other yet there’s still plenty of love between them which pairs well with the overall joyful feeling of home. The warmth of home stems from the loving relationship between the parents which creates a place where Axel wants to return to because it’s safe and comforting. This allows for his motivation to be about helping the kingdom and fulfilling his destiny versus wanting to escape his home life.
The trip to another world creates a slight disruption as it places him on a path that is filled with magic, danger, and destiny. This is accomplished by fine details that weave in mannerisms, challenges such as riddles, and magical beings. These elements create a world that is imaginative and has a layer of playfulness to it that is woven throughout the danger. The illustrations woven throughout depict key moments that range from a heartfelt image of the family to a cheery one of a crab. These are snapshots from his journey that include a treasure chest, animal transformations, and even ducks. Through the images, you can feel the otherworldliness of the journey and the playfulness that works so well with a younger protagonist. The style is crafted so that it fits all ages with something for everyone to enjoy and creates something that families can enjoy together.
Axel: The Mysterious Tapestry is a compelling story that will delight fans of fantasy and adventure. Adelpha L. DeGuzman has written a story that is both entertaining and meaningful, leaving readers eager to explore more of her imaginative worlds. Highly recommended for those seeking a blend of mystery, magic, and adventure.