Portal Fantasy Adventure Novel
Jacinda Harper just wants a vacation -- a little time to spend with an old friend and her new baby. But a speeding car on a rain-slicked road crashes just ahead of her, and alters her life forever.
The last wish from the dying woman in the wrecked car sends Jaci to a lonely mansion, where she finds a mysterious grandfather clock, a cryptic diary, and a strange key... and magic...
Unwittingly transported into a fantastical world of ominous castles, wild forests, and rebel swordsmen -- a world ruled by a ruthless sorcerer whose quest for world domination has long been thwarted by the loss of a magical key stolen from this world long ago -- the key that Jaci has just brought back into his reach...
Jaci must find a way back home before the sorcerer finds her.
Contemporary Fantasy Fiction with Time-Travel Elements
This standalone novel blends contemporary and fantasy worlds through an unexpected portal journey. The story begins in familiar modern settings before transporting readers into a richly imagined realm of magic and danger.
The narrative follows a female protagonist thrust into extraordinary circumstances, combining elements of mystery, adventure, and romance. From the discovery of cryptic clues in an old mansion to confrontations with a power-hungry sorcerer, the story maintains tension throughout.
Key Story Elements
The plot centers on magical artifacts including a mysterious grandfather clock, an ancient key, and a cryptic diary that serve as gateways between worlds. These objects drive the narrative forward as Jaci races against time to return home while evading capture.
The fantasy world features ominous castles, untamed forests, and rebel swordsmen fighting against tyrannical rule. The antagonist's long-standing quest for domination adds depth to the conflict, with Jaci's accidental return of the stolen key raising the stakes.
About This Edition
Published by Book and Sword Publishing in April 2018, this paperback edition offers a complete standalone story. Readers can enjoy the full narrative arc without committing to a series, making it perfect for those seeking a self-contained fantasy adventure.
Author Lori L. Maclaughlin crafts a tale that appeals to fans of portal fantasy, magical realism, and contemporary fantasy genres. The combination of modern-day beginnings with epic fantasy elements creates an accessible entry point for readers new to the genre while satisfying experienced fantasy enthusiasts.
