Lauren H. Brandenburg masterfully blends traditional genres, creating compelling narratives that appeal to both middle-grade readers and fans of humorous family fiction. Her writing style is marked by a playful yet insightful approach to storytelling, often blurring the lines between distinct categories. Brandenburg uses humor and engaging plots to explore themes of growing up and family dynamics.
Set in a hidden realm beneath the earth, the story explores the battle between the forces of goodness and encroaching darkness. This unique underground world serves as a backdrop for a struggle that impacts both its inhabitants and the surface. Themes of conflict and resilience are woven throughout, highlighting the juxtaposition of light and dark in a richly imagined setting.
Set in a vibrant under-land city illuminated by glowing mist, the story follows Lewisia Anna as she aspires to join the elite Shamar protectors. Tasked with defending her home from the destructive Inimicus beasts, she faces unexpected challenges when she finds herself injured and confronted by an enemy. As she uncovers secrets within a mysterious book, Lewis must navigate her own potential and make a choice between pursuing her personal story or safeguarding the Amharclann's citizens.
"Roy Blackwell has proposed to Margarette Toft. A controversial decision given their families are sworn enemies! Soon Coraloo's feuding clans are competing to organize events for the most talked about wedding of the year... and glorious chaos ensues! But as the depth of the two families' animosity becomes clear, Roy and Margarette's relationship begins to falter. Then Roy unearths a town secret involving the mysterious marriage of Innis Wilkinson and a murder. Parallels between the past and present rock the couple even further. But, as the whole truth comes to light, Roy and Margarette learn more than they could have imagined about love, family, and finding a place in the world."--Page 4 of cover
Charlie's lost everything, but the legendary death of Mungo Blackwell will help him find himself...
Set in the Conclusus, an underground world of towering gardens and steam-powered travel, Orlo the deliverer seeks to elevate his status and pursue his dream of invention. An unexpected trip to the Hall of Healers leads him to a tournament opportunity. However, when tasked with retrieving a mysterious package from the perilous Liberum, Orlo's aspirations collide with dark truths about his society and relationships, forcing him to confront an emerging enemy and the reality of his existence.
Boone Tackett faces a tumultuous year filled with confusion from new visions and isolation at school. Struggling to connect with friends and navigate lunch alone, he discovers a looming dark force threatening the Mishpachah's peaceful existence. As he uncovers the emergence of a mysterious leader with a strange secret, Boone must balance defending his place in the garden while working to prevent chaos from disrupting their way of life.
Boone Tackett's comfortable routine is disrupted when a daydream reveals a small town legend, prompting him to embark on a quest for truth. Alongside childhood friends Case and Wayne, and newcomer Noel Peterson, Boone deciphers hidden symbols that unveil a forgotten world. Their adventure is filled with challenges and secrets, leading Boone to confront an enemy and make a life-altering decision. This journey pushes him to question the ordinary life he's always known, blending themes of friendship, discovery, and courage.