Lander’s Legacy is a work of fiction in the fantasy sub-genre and was penned by author C. S. Wachter. Forming the first novel in the Stone Sovereigns book series, the work is aimed at young adult audiences. The central character of this highly entertaining adventure is Lander, the high school junior who knows very little about his family origins other than the fact that his grandfather Ian is his sole carer. Lander spends much time in the wilderness being drawn to nature, and it is only when his grandfather dies that he begins to discover the reason for such an affinity. What follows is an epic journey of discovering his own heritage, and another world of fantasy and intrigue which he never knew existed.

Author C. S. Wachter has created a highly engrossing opening novel to what promises to be an action-packed fantasy adventure series for teenage readers. Also suitable for the higher end of middle-grade readers and adults alike, the story of a young man discovering his hidden magical heritage is one which is sure to captivate fantasy fans from the get-go. The plot of this first novel works extremely well because it is largely set up as a chase, with mysterious figures seeking out Lander as he, in turn, tries to find the elusive Castor Elm, who is supposed to be able to help with his problems. We meet an extended cast of characters along the way, all of whom are delightfully well described within this fascinating new world. Overall, I would definitely recommend Lander’s Legacy as a work that fantasy readers of all ages can fall in love with.

Lander’s Legacy (Stone Sovereigns Book 1) by C. S. Wachter is the first chapter of what promises to be a fascinating and exciting young-adult, coming-of-age, fantasy series. Lander, who was raised by his Pop-pop Ian, always knew he was different from other children. His grandfather had always taught him to shun others and especially to beware of the men wearing black suits who may come looking for you. When Pop-pop unexpectedly passes away, Lander is left bereft, alone, and lost. His grandfather’s last words to Lander were to dig up a hidden box under the old oak tree at home and what was in there would also explain who he really was and why he was different from others. He also told Lander to seek out an unknown friend in a far-away town, Castor Elm, who was like him and would protect him and help him to understand everything he needed to know. So begins a frightening and action-packed adventure for the young teenager that will ultimately pit him against one of the richest and most powerful men in the world.

Lander’s Legacy was a fantastic read, even for one who is not of the author’s target audience. In Lander, author C. S. Wachter has created an engaging character whose shyness, timidity, and fear would be easily recognizable by many young people. Beneath the surface, though, Lander was indeed different and the narrative allows for his courage, his compassion, and yes, even his teenage attitude to rise to the surface from time to time. I particularly enjoyed the developing relationship between Becky and Lander and look forward to seeing what develops with that in future episodes of this tale. The premise of Core People coming from the center of the earth, following the Great Flood of Noah’s time, was certainly innovative and not something I’d come across before, so kudos to the author for that one. I’ll be honest, I’m not a fan of cliffhanger endings to books but in this case the ending was dramatic enough and inspiring enough to make me absolutely gag for the next book, so in that respect, the author has done her job superbly. I desperately want to know what happens next and I’m not sure I can pay an author a higher compliment than that, so well done. Fast-paced, easy to read, and with a relaxed, conversational writing style. I can highly recommend this book.