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Michael Goe is an American fiction writer living in Bloomington, Indiana. He grew up inspired by masters of sci-fi & fantasy like Philip K. Dick and Garth Nix, and credits his motivation to share his own stories to a lifelong love affair with tabletop role-playing games.
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Children of Nemia by Michael Goe follows fifteen-year-old Van as he prepares for the sacred Journey of Patronage. It is a rite of passage meant to prove his worth to his tribe and to his demanding chieftain father. Hoping to return as a blooded warrior, Van instead finds his path transformed when he befriends two outsiders. He finds Simon, a clever sorcerer from a distant land, and Shale, a mysterious figure feared by the tribe’s shamans. What begins as a small gesture of kindness becomes a life-changing bond, which leads Van to uncover long-buried truths about his people, ancient conspiracies, and the hidden forces manipulating the four tribes. As deadly creatures, political betrayals, and an almighty entity known as Anathema create chaos, Van and his companions must decide whether Nemia can be saved. Will they have to make sacrifices that none of them are ready to make?
Author Michael Goe's incredible young adult epic fantasy has a strong protagonist and an outstanding plot. I loved how Van is a relatable hero torn between expectations and his growing awareness that the world is far more complex than what he was taught. His friendships with Simon and Shale feel meaningful and so warm. They supported Van, helped ground him, and faced the challenges that crushed him. The world-building is detailed without being overwhelming. I loved how the author blended tribal culture with magic and myth in a setting that felt very real. I also enjoyed how the author told the story, created a believable world, and ensured that readers were truly invested until the end. Children of Nemia is a fantastic story with enough twists to keep you entertained for hours. Highly recommended!
