Book 1 – Derry doesn’t remember anything before he was found alone and frightened on a boat by a murderous crew. Instead of killing him like they had the rest of his boat, they kidnap him and take him back to a rock in the middle of the ocean. This rock is named Cram’s Rock after the leader of their gang. Cram decides that Derry will be his poison taster – tasting everything before it passes over Cram’s lips.

Life is tough on Cram’s Rock, and very lonely. There are many members loyal to Cram and many child slaves too, but all avoid Derry. Cram likes Derry to read to him (because he can’t), but still treats him badly.

One day a woman arrives on the rock, pursued by others. These others seem to be members of the El. Derry’s reading and tales through time have spoken of the El and their magical ways, and the history they inhabited, but many people scoff of such things. What Derry sees that day makes him a believer of the tales. What Cram sees begins to drive him crazy…

After many years, Derry and his fellow slaves can leave Cram’s Rock – but what is waiting for them in their near future?

Book 2 – Derry finds a new life with others saved from perilous situations, but still escapes into his mind when things get too overwhelming. Still searching for his memories, Derry and three others from Cram’s Rock are sent to find a figure of legend in the Scarlett City. This figure is said to have leaded a rebellion years before between True Landovel (where life is hard and without any machines, science or medicines) and Free Landovel.

But inadvertently, Derry lands right in the lap of the enemy. Or was he on the wrong side all along?

Book 3 – Derry finds many answers about his mission, but not the personal answers he seeks. He does discover more than his mission ever discussed, with lies, betrayal and even more of a shock – a seemingly benign enemy. Fearing for his fellows he has travelled with, he makes the best of his chances to right wrongs, and make new contacts and friends. Little does he know the terrible evil that lies within his new home, and the awful truth behind his own masters.

Released only in a giftbox of all three books, Landovel is a true treasure of imaginative escapism. There is to be no waiting for the next adventure in main character Derry’s life – the 2nd and 3rd books are ready and waiting to be devoured along with the first.

I’ve never read any Emily Rodda books before, but of course know of the Deltora Quest series. Landovel is full of all the things that capture a reader.

• An orphan in main character, Derry. 
• His back story revealed to the reader and Derry in unison.
• Action, mystery and an epic adventure.
• A secret mission.
• Just enough gruesome to make you squirm but be thrilled by at the same time.
• Mind blowing reveals in the final volume.

The world building and back story of Landovel is astounding and rich with events, myths and rebellions. Contrasting beliefs are many, reading is banned and two royals head very different lands.

In perfect timing for Christmas – this is a gift that will never be forgotten. 

Author – Emily Rodda

Age – 9+

(2024, Series, Box set, Slipcase, Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Mission, Quest, Rebellion, Slaves, Magic, Friendship, Betrayal, Castle, Journey, Plots, Secrets, Allen & Unwin, Orphans, Slaves, Courage, Bravery, Secret Diary, Journal, King, Queen, Lies, Redemption, Truth, Memories, Memory)