In the rich tapestry of fantasy literature, a new saga emerges that intertwines destiny, courage, and the undying spirit of adventure. “Kiona the Gardenian,” the inaugural volume of the “Now.Here” series penned by Richard Haslam, beckons readers into a realm where the lines between heroism and ordinary life blur in the most extraordinary ways.
Embarking on a Quest of Destiny
The narrative unfurls with Kiona, a protagonist whose life is upended by the abduction of her younger brother, Achak, at the hands of the nefarious Eresh Kigal. This cataclysmic event propels Kiona into an odyssey that not only tests her mettle but also awakens a predestined path that has lain dormant within her. Alongside allies both old and new, including the stalwart Abenanka and the enigmatic Masked Piper, Kiona’s journey is a testament to the power of unity and the strength that lies in compassion and assistance.
One of the novel’s captivating elements is The Masked Piper’s challenge, that is the Trials of Maturity. Kiona’s is the Ringmaster of The Forest Trial, The Masked Piper’s main opponent. The trial symbolizes not just a test of physical endurance for Kiona but also an internal journey towards understanding and self-discovery.
A World Teetering on the Brink
Set against the backdrop of an alternate 18th century, the island of Gardenia stands as a beacon of tranquility amidst the chaos brewing beyond its shores. The recent Shepherds Civil War has left the world reeling, with the formidable Yin-Lung Dynasty and the Northern Roman Empire casting long shadows over the land. It is within this volatile geopolitical tapestry that Kiona’s story unfolds, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to her quest.
The emergence of Eresh Kigal as a threat not just to Gardenia but to existence itself raises the stakes to dizzying heights. The kidnapping and tragic fate of Achak serve as a grim reminder of the dangers that lurk in every shadow. Yet, it is through loss that Kiona finds her true strength, embodying the Maid of the Heart, a beacon of hope named Tiqvah. Together with her heart angel, Levtiqvah, Kiona embarks on a divine mission to thwart Eresh Kigal’s dark designs.
The Power of Unsung Heroes
At its core, “Kiona the Gardenian” is a celebration of the unsung heroes of daily life, particularly the pivotal roles that girls and women play in shaping the course of history. Haslam crafts a narrative that champions teamwork and the indispensable contributions of female characters, offering a refreshing perspective in a genre often dominated by male protagonists.
The story’s emphasis on unity, mutual support, and the recognition of strength in diversity resonates deeply, serving as a powerful reminder of the impact individuals can make when they come together for a common cause. “Kiona the Gardenian” is not just a fantasy adventure; it is a homage to the indomitable spirit of those who fight not with the promise of glory but with the hope of making a difference.
The Call to Adventure Awaits
For readers yearning for a saga filled with adventure, heart, and a new vision of heroism, “Kiona the Gardenian” is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Richard Haslam invites us into a world brimming with mystery, peril, and the promise of a destiny that could change everything.
As Kiona and her allies navigate the challenges that await them, they remind us of the power of hope and the unbreakable bonds of friendship. This saga is a beacon for those who seek a story that combines the thrill of fantasy with the depth of real human emotions and experiences.
In a world teetering on the edge of darkness, “Kiona the Gardenian” shines brightly, offering a journey that is as much about finding one’s place in the world as it is about saving it. Join Kiona and her companions as they embark on an odyssey that promises to captivate, inspire, and awaken the hero within us all.
About the Author Richard Haslam:
Richard James Haslam is a humble individual who is the author of the Now.Here Saga. Born in Bolton, Greater Manchester on the 2nd April 1989 with High Functioning Autism, he lived with his older brother, Philip, and his parents, Christine and Martin near Horwich for a short time before moving to Whittle-Le-Woods near Chorley, Lancashire, where his childhood there shaped him with events, including TV shows such as The Dreamstone, Animals of Farthing Wood, Watership Down, Redwall, The Wind in the Willows, and other examples that would gradually overtime inspire him to write the Now.Here Saga. He was given an extra year in Nursery after coming down with Meningitis when he was three, and as a result, had a year gap between himself and Philip at Manor Road County Primary School (1995-2001).
After Primary School, Richard went to Lostock Hall Community High School and Arts Collage (2001-2006), where throughout that long 11-year road of maturity, his carer, Sally, would help him mature his rebellious childhood and transition him into an adult. After High School and warm goodbyes to Sally, Richard gained more independence in living when attending a disabled boarding college in Wirksworth, Derbyshire, called Callow Park, part of the Alderwasley School (2006-2008). After two years of staying with his parents, Richard eventually moved into Townley House in Chorley in June 2010, a disability-living apartment of flats. Since childhood, Richard, with Philip, had many inspirational ideas for novels and even cartoon series of their own, but it wasn’t until 2005 that the first ideas for Serena, Abigail, Abenanka, Rui-Lin, and Zoe came to the imagination and pencil sketches. Richard’s time in Townley House was an enjoyable one at first, but over time, many of the staff left and were replaced, gradually hiring fewer and fewer.
Ten years later, in March 2020, Richard moved to Penwortham, near Preston, to have a fresh start with Autism Initiative. The timing couldn’t have been fortunate, because when Covid-19 struck, Richard was confined within his new home, but unlike his last home, he had a garden and space in the countryside to move about. The elements were now just right for writing Now.Here, with his first book, “Kiona the Gardenian”, being published on 12th October (Now.Here Day). Since then, four more books were published about the world of Now.Here, “The Maid of the Heart”, “Rubecula & Nascha”, “The Tree of Agape”, and “A Zephyr Before The Tempest”.