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S.W. Kent lives with his husband and his familiar in the Pacific Northwest. Before becoming an author, he enjoyed a twenty-year career as a coach, counselor and executive, focused on equity and human rights.
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Storyteller From Balincia by S.W. Kent is an exciting fantasy that follows Birk, a young storyteller who stumbles upon a magic book that changes everything. Suddenly, he's discovering secrets about his home and his future that he never imagined. With his friends by his side, he faces old prophecies, powerful enemies, and forces he doesn’t fully understand. Kent builds a world bursting with life, where ideas about identity, legacy, and doing the right thing come through in the details—whether it's the customs, the landscapes, or the magic itself. The book blends classic fantasy elements with fresh, modern ideas, creating a story that feels timeless.
Author S.W. Kent's story world feels both new and familiar. I really liked how the different characters felt natural in the story instead of forced. The writing flows beautifully and is easy to follow, making it perfect for younger readers. The different cultures and perspectives make the world feel layered and real, like stepping into a place that actually exists. The story touches on identity and belonging, but it never feels heavy—it’s an adventure first, the kind that keeps you flipping pages to see what happens next. What I found special was how Kent gives each character a journey that matters, making sure their struggles and choices feel personal but still tied to the bigger picture of change and resistance. The way he highlights the power of storytelling also makes you think about the stories we tell ourselves and the ones we pass on. Overall, The Storyteller From Balincia is a must-read for anyone who wants a fantasy adventure that tries new things while keeping what's best about fantasy stories.
