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Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Longevity: The Awakening is a young adult fantasy novel by Caleb Smith. Set during the Scottish War of Independence in the late 13th century, the book follows Alastair Ramsden, a young boy who witnessed the brutal murder of his father by English invaders who sought to bring control of Scotland under the English King Edward. While fleeing from English attackers, Alastair took refuge in an old oak tree when the Divine Queen Mother opened a portal to the elemental kingdom of Akasha. Upon entering Akasha, Alastair is welcomed by his spirit guide, David, who offers him knowledge about this mysterious kingdom. With an old gnome named Tariji for company, Alastair must embark on a spiritual quest in search of self-discovery. Along the way, he will meet various elemental creatures who will eventually lead him to the Mother's Ranger, Neldor Aldaval.
Rich in themes and emotional resonance, Longevity: The Awakening is a coming-of-age story about a young boy's spiritual journey set in a fantastical land full of magic and wonder. Caleb Smith's worldbuilding is imaginative and uniquely authentic. The author borrows elements from Scottish mythology and folklore, yet the magical world of Akasha feels entirely original and refreshingly distinct. Smith doesn't gloss over the atrocities committed by the English soldiers during the Scottish War of Independence. But although the story is set against the backdrop of war and its harrowing consequences, this is primarily a coming-of-age story of a young boy's spiritual awakening. If you love fantasy stories set in the Middle Ages, this is the perfect book for you.
