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The Gateway Chronicles #5
The Scroll by K. B. Hoyle
Darcy Pennington may once have been an average teenager, but not anymore. Living each year twice, once in her world and once in Alitheia, has made her into someone who cares little for normal teenage activities. She’s got more important things to do, like save the mythical, magical world of Alitheia. But this time, Darcy can’t save Alitheia until she saves Tellius, the love of her life.
A window between the worlds allows Darcy to see Tellius from her home in Chicago. But, far from being reassured, she plunges into despair when she sees Tellius captured, imprisoned, and tortured. All her plans for her future life in Alitheia are put on hold as Darcy faces a singular goal: save Tellius, even if it means giving Tselloch something in return.
Intrigue is high upon her return to the castle, where old friends tell new lies, best friends hide crucial secrets, deceptive apparitions roam the halls, and betrayal lingers around every corner. The only way to unravel the mysteries and protect Alitheia is to bring Tellius home, but Darcy lacks the necessary magic for that.
As time runs low, Rubidius keeps to himself, and even Sam has her own secret this year. Darcy wonders if anyone else cares the way she does, and why it’s always a fight to get anything done. Still, she’ll do anything to rescue her future husband, including surrender herself to the fate she knows is coming anyway. Now, if only The Six could unveil the scroll, they might learn the greatest secret of all, before everything burns to ashes around them.
A window between the worlds allows Darcy to see Tellius from her home in Chicago. But, far from being reassured, she plunges into despair when she sees Tellius captured, imprisoned, and tortured. All her plans for her future life in Alitheia are put on hold as Darcy faces a singular goal: save Tellius, even if it means giving Tselloch something in return.
Intrigue is high upon her return to the castle, where old friends tell new lies, best friends hide crucial secrets, deceptive apparitions roam the halls, and betrayal lingers around every corner. The only way to unravel the mysteries and protect Alitheia is to bring Tellius home, but Darcy lacks the necessary magic for that.
As time runs low, Rubidius keeps to himself, and even Sam has her own secret this year. Darcy wonders if anyone else cares the way she does, and why it’s always a fight to get anything done. Still, she’ll do anything to rescue her future husband, including surrender herself to the fate she knows is coming anyway. Now, if only The Six could unveil the scroll, they might learn the greatest secret of all, before everything burns to ashes around them.
Paperback
First published October 16, 2013
16 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
K.B. Hoyle
16 books251 followersK. B. Hoyle’s love of good stories began when she stepped through a wardrobe at age six, and she never looked back. She is the multiple award-winning Young Adult author of THE GATEWAY CHRONICLES fantasy series, THE BREEDER CYCLE dystopian series, The Fairytale Collection, and more.
In addition to her many novels, K. B. Hoyle is the co-founder and CEO of Owl's Nest Publishers, an independent press specializing in books that capture the imagination of adolescents. She is also a sought-after voice in the areas of storytelling and culture, and she has contributed articles and essays to a variety of publications. Her speaking resume includes keynote addresses, leading writing workshops, and international experience as a featured panelist at the 2013 Sydney Writers' Festival.
K. B. Hoyle stays busy at her home in Wisconsin on a winding creek with her husband, their four sons, and the variety of wildlife that frequent their land.
For more information on K. B. Hoyle, visit her website at kbhoyle.com or find her around social media at @kbhoyle.author on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Email her at author@kbhoyle.com.
In addition to her many novels, K. B. Hoyle is the co-founder and CEO of Owl's Nest Publishers, an independent press specializing in books that capture the imagination of adolescents. She is also a sought-after voice in the areas of storytelling and culture, and she has contributed articles and essays to a variety of publications. Her speaking resume includes keynote addresses, leading writing workshops, and international experience as a featured panelist at the 2013 Sydney Writers' Festival.
K. B. Hoyle stays busy at her home in Wisconsin on a winding creek with her husband, their four sons, and the variety of wildlife that frequent their land.
For more information on K. B. Hoyle, visit her website at kbhoyle.com or find her around social media at @kbhoyle.author on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Email her at author@kbhoyle.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 27, 2023
Read this one in two days because I HAD TO KNOW. One more book left in the series…
Time for an actual review because this book was just fantastic. There was a perfect blend of action (heart-pounding, how will they get out of this?, what is going to happen??) and character development. I feel so deeply for these characters at this point in the series...annoyed with them at times, frustrated by what is happening to them, but also loving the way they're learning and growing and sacrificing for each other. A lot of the plot of this one hinges on a romance that I had no idea I was SO invested in! How will it all wrap up??? I can't wait to find out.
Time for an actual review because this book was just fantastic. There was a perfect blend of action (heart-pounding, how will they get out of this?, what is going to happen??) and character development. I feel so deeply for these characters at this point in the series...annoyed with them at times, frustrated by what is happening to them, but also loving the way they're learning and growing and sacrificing for each other. A lot of the plot of this one hinges on a romance that I had no idea I was SO invested in! How will it all wrap up??? I can't wait to find out.
October 14, 2013
Ugh, cliffhanger ending! Now I'm dying to find out what happens to Darcy and Tellius. Good story. Darcy is definitely showing more depth and I actually really like her now.
October 17, 2013
It has been almost a whole year since the last time I visited the world of Alitheia with Darcy and her friends, but I was very pleased to rejoin them in this, the penultimate book in the Gateway Chronicles series.
A while before Darcy and her friends are due to travel to summer camp and then back to the parallel world of Alitheia, Darcy is missing Tellius dreadfully. A magic mirror from Alitheia allows her to catch glimpses of her love from time to time, but when one day she looks in the mirror and sees Tellius captured and later tortured, she is desperate to get back to Alitheia as soon as possible. But there are more secrets, lies and adventures waiting for them in that other world than there ever have been before.
Some stories are told with events taking place over a few days. Not so in the Gateway Chronicles, where each instalment covers a whole year in Alitheia, as well as whatever portions of real-world events happen on either side of that. For this reason, great sections of the story (and in this book in particular) involve down-time – the six companions from our world spend a lot of time training or sitting around studying in the library, and the actual action parts are kind of spaced out. It was rather frustrating, for the characters as well as the reader – they know that Tellius is being tortured, why can’t they do something about it sooner?!
If there’s one thing that disappointed me slightly about this book in the series is that the characters are still repeating the same mistakes as they have previously. Secrets are being kept from Darcy and she doesn’t like it, so she takes things into her own hands and wanders off into trouble again. I don’t blame her, really, but I’d be more inclined (in my imagination, at least) to demand answers from someone before I went running off into danger. In any case, she manages to uncover some secrets on her own and eventually the reason for the lack of information is revealed.
Despite Darcy’s (and my) impatience, the interactions between characters in these books are really very well written and make the story really enjoyable. Darcy is essentially now an early-twenty-year-old living in a seventeen year old’s body, and her maturity shines through. It was really nice to see her come into her own as a mage, even if Rubidius wouldn’t help with training. The other characters have matured nicely as well, except for Percy, perhaps. I did want to slap him occasionally! Tellius, as usual, is adorable and wasn’t in this one enough.
The Scroll‘s cliffhanger ending really sets things up for the finale – I’m really looking forward to seeing what KB Hoyle could possibly have left to throw at her long-suffering characters!
Once again, I’d recommend the Gateway Chronicles series to those who enjoy fantasy aimed at a young-YA crowd.
This review was originally posted on The Oaken Bookcase in October 2013.
A while before Darcy and her friends are due to travel to summer camp and then back to the parallel world of Alitheia, Darcy is missing Tellius dreadfully. A magic mirror from Alitheia allows her to catch glimpses of her love from time to time, but when one day she looks in the mirror and sees Tellius captured and later tortured, she is desperate to get back to Alitheia as soon as possible. But there are more secrets, lies and adventures waiting for them in that other world than there ever have been before.
Some stories are told with events taking place over a few days. Not so in the Gateway Chronicles, where each instalment covers a whole year in Alitheia, as well as whatever portions of real-world events happen on either side of that. For this reason, great sections of the story (and in this book in particular) involve down-time – the six companions from our world spend a lot of time training or sitting around studying in the library, and the actual action parts are kind of spaced out. It was rather frustrating, for the characters as well as the reader – they know that Tellius is being tortured, why can’t they do something about it sooner?!
If there’s one thing that disappointed me slightly about this book in the series is that the characters are still repeating the same mistakes as they have previously. Secrets are being kept from Darcy and she doesn’t like it, so she takes things into her own hands and wanders off into trouble again. I don’t blame her, really, but I’d be more inclined (in my imagination, at least) to demand answers from someone before I went running off into danger. In any case, she manages to uncover some secrets on her own and eventually the reason for the lack of information is revealed.
Despite Darcy’s (and my) impatience, the interactions between characters in these books are really very well written and make the story really enjoyable. Darcy is essentially now an early-twenty-year-old living in a seventeen year old’s body, and her maturity shines through. It was really nice to see her come into her own as a mage, even if Rubidius wouldn’t help with training. The other characters have matured nicely as well, except for Percy, perhaps. I did want to slap him occasionally! Tellius, as usual, is adorable and wasn’t in this one enough.
The Scroll‘s cliffhanger ending really sets things up for the finale – I’m really looking forward to seeing what KB Hoyle could possibly have left to throw at her long-suffering characters!
Once again, I’d recommend the Gateway Chronicles series to those who enjoy fantasy aimed at a young-YA crowd.
This review was originally posted on The Oaken Bookcase in October 2013.
January 21, 2025
This is such a sad book- Darcy struggles to make the right choices as her curse grows more and more powerful. It’s not an easy battle. They also need to rescue Tellius but everyone knows something she doesn’t, and she’s starting to feel they don’t trust her or something. This book is hard as she struggles emotionally with the knowledge her beloved is being torchered.
Just finished rereading. I just CAN'T right now. This is the worst and saddest cliffhanger ever. Whyy on the wedding of all days!!!!
Just finished rereading. I just CAN'T right now. This is the worst and saddest cliffhanger ever. Whyy on the wedding of all days!!!!
May 6, 2025
I can’t stop reading these books.
October 11, 2013
Book Review- The Scroll by K.B. Hoyle
This is the fifth book in the Gateway series. This is probably the best one yet. Darcy finds out that Tellius has been captured during her year in her world. She uses the compact to see into Alitheia. As a result she feels helpless and has to hold herself together until it is time to go back. When the six go back, no one knows that Tellius has been captured. Tselloch is demanding the bottle that the Oracle gave YahtoVeni in exchange for the return of Tellius. He also tells Darcy that she alone has to make the trade.
Darcy is beside herself with worry and frustration. Rubidius has a plan and is working night and day. He is keeping secrets from Darcy. Her frustrations and fear lead her on a fool’s mission where she loses a trusted friend and gains a new one.
She is fighting her curse and her fears while Tselloch is playing on those exact things to get her to do what he wants. He sends Darcy apparitions of Tellius begging for her to save him. Her guilt is pushing her hard. It takes all her friends to help her keep herself under control.
Once the plan is ready, Rubidius entrusts Darcy with the rescue of Tellius from Tselloch. She knows that she may never leave once she saves him. She has to be the one and she has to go alone. Saving Tellius is the most important thing to her.
This book blew my mind. It was harrowing and had danger at every turn. You, the reader, will not see some of the things coming. It had a lot of surprises. Darcy’s fear and frustration jump from the page. You can almost physically feel it. The journey to rescue Tellius was full of twists and turns and I had no clue what would come next. Then the last day in Alitheia for the six was intense and shocking as was the time right after they get back to their own world. I can not wait to read the next one. I am a bit sad that I have to wait. I give this a 5 out of 5.
This is the fifth book in the Gateway series. This is probably the best one yet. Darcy finds out that Tellius has been captured during her year in her world. She uses the compact to see into Alitheia. As a result she feels helpless and has to hold herself together until it is time to go back. When the six go back, no one knows that Tellius has been captured. Tselloch is demanding the bottle that the Oracle gave YahtoVeni in exchange for the return of Tellius. He also tells Darcy that she alone has to make the trade.
Darcy is beside herself with worry and frustration. Rubidius has a plan and is working night and day. He is keeping secrets from Darcy. Her frustrations and fear lead her on a fool’s mission where she loses a trusted friend and gains a new one.
She is fighting her curse and her fears while Tselloch is playing on those exact things to get her to do what he wants. He sends Darcy apparitions of Tellius begging for her to save him. Her guilt is pushing her hard. It takes all her friends to help her keep herself under control.
Once the plan is ready, Rubidius entrusts Darcy with the rescue of Tellius from Tselloch. She knows that she may never leave once she saves him. She has to be the one and she has to go alone. Saving Tellius is the most important thing to her.
This book blew my mind. It was harrowing and had danger at every turn. You, the reader, will not see some of the things coming. It had a lot of surprises. Darcy’s fear and frustration jump from the page. You can almost physically feel it. The journey to rescue Tellius was full of twists and turns and I had no clue what would come next. Then the last day in Alitheia for the six was intense and shocking as was the time right after they get back to their own world. I can not wait to read the next one. I am a bit sad that I have to wait. I give this a 5 out of 5.
October 8, 2013
This book… oh man… I LOVE this series! And this book just reaffirms WHY! This is Fantasy, plain and simple… but of course there is a bit of romance in it which I just eat up like its candy. It is very rare that I read a strictly fantasy novel, but when K.B. Hoyle releases a book? I am ALL OVER IT!
I think my favorite part about this series, and this book in particular is that we have gotten so attached to each and every character. I feel like they are my friends, I have watched them grow from spoiled little children to independent and brave adults (or almost adults) and the adventures they go on are although farfetched, so well written that you want to believe they are real!
When I first started reading this series, I really disliked Darcy; she was a spoiled little girl who was just not nice to anyone… now though? After reading The Scroll? She may be my favorite character EVER! She has just grown and matured so much. She is brave, but still snarky, she is definitely not a push over… however she really has to start thinking before acting, I love absolutely everything about her!
Oh, and don’t worry girls, this book is totally fan girl friendly as well… although not as jam packed with book boyfriends as a contemp book (I mean it IS a fantasy) You still have Tellius, plus he is a KING! He is also super loyal, protective, perfect, and loves Darcy so very much.
Even if you don’t generally read fantasy like me, you should totally check out this series because each book just gets better and better! Keep’em coming K.B. Hoyle! I want The Bone Whistle as soon as possible please!!!
I think my favorite part about this series, and this book in particular is that we have gotten so attached to each and every character. I feel like they are my friends, I have watched them grow from spoiled little children to independent and brave adults (or almost adults) and the adventures they go on are although farfetched, so well written that you want to believe they are real!
When I first started reading this series, I really disliked Darcy; she was a spoiled little girl who was just not nice to anyone… now though? After reading The Scroll? She may be my favorite character EVER! She has just grown and matured so much. She is brave, but still snarky, she is definitely not a push over… however she really has to start thinking before acting, I love absolutely everything about her!
Oh, and don’t worry girls, this book is totally fan girl friendly as well… although not as jam packed with book boyfriends as a contemp book (I mean it IS a fantasy) You still have Tellius, plus he is a KING! He is also super loyal, protective, perfect, and loves Darcy so very much.
Even if you don’t generally read fantasy like me, you should totally check out this series because each book just gets better and better! Keep’em coming K.B. Hoyle! I want The Bone Whistle as soon as possible please!!!
June 10, 2016
One day while hiking a young girl discovers a portal to another world, the magical land of Alithia. She soon learns of a prophecy claiming that she and five others are destined to save this mystical place. At first the six are unsure of their part in this ancient prophecy. But eventually they learn to work together as a team, united in their efforts to fulfill their destiny and save this enchanted land.
Author K.B. Hoyle pens scenes that pop with vibrant details, making the world of Alitheia vivid and very much alive for the reader. There are new and exciting twists with the turn of each page as this dynamic series unfolds. Hoyle is a gifted author whose stories flow smoothly from one exciting chapter to the next, leaving the reader heartily anticipating the next adventure.
The Gateway Chronicles are a phenomenal and entirely compelling series. As the story progresses all the characters are fleshed out as each grows and develops in maturity. The six encounter struggles to which we can all relate and from which we can all learn. Each book in the series expertly builds upon the last. Hoyle guides her readers through a gauntlet of magic and fantasy adventure as the series builds to a resounding crescendo. The world of fantasy fiction is brought to an entirely new level with this outstanding series. The Gateway Chronicles are destined to become a timeless classic.
Author K.B. Hoyle pens scenes that pop with vibrant details, making the world of Alitheia vivid and very much alive for the reader. There are new and exciting twists with the turn of each page as this dynamic series unfolds. Hoyle is a gifted author whose stories flow smoothly from one exciting chapter to the next, leaving the reader heartily anticipating the next adventure.
The Gateway Chronicles are a phenomenal and entirely compelling series. As the story progresses all the characters are fleshed out as each grows and develops in maturity. The six encounter struggles to which we can all relate and from which we can all learn. Each book in the series expertly builds upon the last. Hoyle guides her readers through a gauntlet of magic and fantasy adventure as the series builds to a resounding crescendo. The world of fantasy fiction is brought to an entirely new level with this outstanding series. The Gateway Chronicles are destined to become a timeless classic.
September 14, 2013
I loved this series so hard. I am seriously suffering withdrawals and I am morose now. Nothing I'm looking to read next can compare. K.B. has drawn me so far into the world of Darcy and friends that I must know how this story ends and I just feel tortured with pure impatience. K.B. if you read this, please - send me anything you've written to date on book six. I don't care if it's rough and unedited. I'm in pain! Please?
In The Enchanted and The Scroll the saga of The Six continues. Darcy's worry over her oracle has her questioning what is best for those around her, especially Tellius who she has grown to love in spite of her earliest aversion to the idea of being the King's intended. Her need to save the world of Alitheia, and her home world, from Tsellech is still her primary goal, yet her tender heart won't allow her to destroy Colin Mackaby - the one person she fears will be her downfall.
Seriously folks. If you haven't read The Gateway Chronicles you are missing out of some of the best books I've ever read. They have everything you could want in a book series and more. So much friendship, loyalty, indecision, heartache, doubt, danger, betrayal, and best of all fierce love.
Read them. You won't be sorry.
In The Enchanted and The Scroll the saga of The Six continues. Darcy's worry over her oracle has her questioning what is best for those around her, especially Tellius who she has grown to love in spite of her earliest aversion to the idea of being the King's intended. Her need to save the world of Alitheia, and her home world, from Tsellech is still her primary goal, yet her tender heart won't allow her to destroy Colin Mackaby - the one person she fears will be her downfall.
Seriously folks. If you haven't read The Gateway Chronicles you are missing out of some of the best books I've ever read. They have everything you could want in a book series and more. So much friendship, loyalty, indecision, heartache, doubt, danger, betrayal, and best of all fierce love.
Read them. You won't be sorry.
October 3, 2013
Darcy Pennington continues on her quest to seperate the two worlds. She’s got more important things to do, like save the mythical, magical world of Alitheia. But this time, Darcy can’t save Alitheia until she saves Tellius, the love of her life.
A window between the worlds allows Darcy to see Tellius from her home in Chicago. But, far from being reassured, she plunges into despair when she sees Tellius captured, imprisoned, and tortured. All her plans for her future life in Alitheia are put on hold as Darcy faces a singular goal: save Tellius, even if it means giving Tselloch something in return.
As time runs low, Rubidius keeps to himself, and even Sam has her own secret this year. Darcy wonders if anyone else cares the way she does, and why it’s always a fight to get anything done. Still, she’ll do anything to rescue her future husband, including surrender herself to the fate she knows is coming anyway. Now, if only The Six could unveil the scroll, they might learn the greatest secret of all, before everything burns to ashes around them.
A window between the worlds allows Darcy to see Tellius from her home in Chicago. But, far from being reassured, she plunges into despair when she sees Tellius captured, imprisoned, and tortured. All her plans for her future life in Alitheia are put on hold as Darcy faces a singular goal: save Tellius, even if it means giving Tselloch something in return.
As time runs low, Rubidius keeps to himself, and even Sam has her own secret this year. Darcy wonders if anyone else cares the way she does, and why it’s always a fight to get anything done. Still, she’ll do anything to rescue her future husband, including surrender herself to the fate she knows is coming anyway. Now, if only The Six could unveil the scroll, they might learn the greatest secret of all, before everything burns to ashes around them.
August 25, 2013
I have no clue how I'm going to wait for the 6th and final book to be written and released. This series is sooooo good. Darcy and Tellius just can't seem to have things work out so they can be together without anything ripping them apart. Once again, a force pulls them apart and she is sent home without knowing where he is, or even able to say goodbye. Then, once home she gets horrible news from her father that greatly affects her returning to Alitheia. I will be waiting on the edge of my seat for the next book, that's for sure!
I received this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I received this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
November 26, 2024
What I loved about The Scroll is that we caught up with Darcy and her friends (who are now MY friends) and a few loose ends were tied. What stressed me out about The Scroll is that I do not see how the new challenges are going to be wrapped up in Book 6. Hoyle takes readers from the highest highs to the lowest lows, with unexpected trials and sorrows. Along the way, we get to experience Darcy's challenges and joys and see that being noble isn't about perfection but being true and keeping on when you'd rather quit. The lessons here are needed for young and old—everyone simply must read this series.
August 11, 2015
With this title I could be foreshadowing the Gateway Chronicles movie series coming out... but sadly no. At least not yet.
This book continued the relationship drama, but it was a good set piece to move along the main plot, not a separate plot line we had to follow. Good level of tension, action, twists and character progression (something Hoyle excels at).
I love this series and can't wait for the final installment. Best work she's done to date.
This book continued the relationship drama, but it was a good set piece to move along the main plot, not a separate plot line we had to follow. Good level of tension, action, twists and character progression (something Hoyle excels at).
I love this series and can't wait for the final installment. Best work she's done to date.
August 22, 2018
I really tried not to speed through this one, but in the end I just couldn't put it down. Full review soon.
August 3, 2023
Can’t believe Tellius didn’t even get kidnapped.
October 15, 2024
The ending of this Gateway adventure might have been the most conflicted and cliffhanger-ish yet. I'm enjoying Darcy as a heroine more and more, and seeing the supporting characters come into their own in this one was a treat. My suspense is high as I head into the finale!
July 24, 2024
I loved the unfolding of the prophecies, the romance, the adventure, and the quest to save everything/everyone.
December 22, 2024
My only complaint is that my favorite character doesn’t show up until page 247
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2019
Yeah hi my name is Katt Smith and I am not okay.
KB Hoyle sure has a lot of explaining to do in this upcoming 6th and final book. I’m anxious to see how this all comes together.
KB Hoyle sure has a lot of explaining to do in this upcoming 6th and final book. I’m anxious to see how this all comes together.
October 14, 2013
Did you like Harry Potter? The adventures in Narnia? Alice in Wonderland? Did you wish that you could immerse yourself in another book series that would just take you away? If so, The Gateway Chronicles is the series for you. Ms. Hoyle captures these young characters so well. If you know any teens, I'm sure that you will see the REAL in Darcy, Sam, Perry and the rest. She also captures them as they grow and learn. We've all made mistakes; the secret to maturing is learning from them, and then moving on, wiser and better prepared to face the adventure that is life.
In The Scroll, which is book five in the series, Darcy has to learn new magic to save her betrothed. There are still secrets being held close and bad decisions made that bring harm to loved ones. We also get to meet new creatures, like Marier, the dragon from the cover. A new bodyguard gives her oath to Darcy just as she's thrown into the dungeon by an unexpected friend. Yes, I laughed.
The pacing is right on. Ms. Hoyle brings the action to a peak, then lets you catch your breath, then we are back on the roller coaster again. I wanted to smack Rubidius...take the dang whistle! I sighed with the burgeoning romance between two of the six. I loved seeing my favorite Narks again (GO YAHTO VELI!). I wanted a dragon of my own. I was anxious along with Darcy to get on the road to rescue Tellius. All in all, just what I want in a book!
The only thing I can say that I didn't like...is that it's going to be a YEAR before we get the last installment, The Bone Whistle. It's hard to wait that long!
This is listed as YA...but it is far from that. Just like you loved Hunger Games and Twilight, this book is for everyone, young and not so young. If it's an adventure you want, with a touch of romance, please read The Gateway Chronicles!
I read this in one sitting. Good thing my kids are old enough to find dinner on their own.
THE SCROLL publishes on October 17.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1612...
FIVE BOOKMARKS for sure!
*Thank you, TWCS and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read THE SCROLL.
In The Scroll, which is book five in the series, Darcy has to learn new magic to save her betrothed. There are still secrets being held close and bad decisions made that bring harm to loved ones. We also get to meet new creatures, like Marier, the dragon from the cover. A new bodyguard gives her oath to Darcy just as she's thrown into the dungeon by an unexpected friend. Yes, I laughed.
The pacing is right on. Ms. Hoyle brings the action to a peak, then lets you catch your breath, then we are back on the roller coaster again. I wanted to smack Rubidius...take the dang whistle! I sighed with the burgeoning romance between two of the six. I loved seeing my favorite Narks again (GO YAHTO VELI!). I wanted a dragon of my own. I was anxious along with Darcy to get on the road to rescue Tellius. All in all, just what I want in a book!
The only thing I can say that I didn't like...is that it's going to be a YEAR before we get the last installment, The Bone Whistle. It's hard to wait that long!
This is listed as YA...but it is far from that. Just like you loved Hunger Games and Twilight, this book is for everyone, young and not so young. If it's an adventure you want, with a touch of romance, please read The Gateway Chronicles!
I read this in one sitting. Good thing my kids are old enough to find dinner on their own.
THE SCROLL publishes on October 17.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1612...
FIVE BOOKMARKS for sure!
*Thank you, TWCS and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read THE SCROLL.
June 18, 2019
When Darcy Pennington returns to the world of Alitheia in K.B. Hoyle's The Scroll: The Gateway Chronicles 5, she learns that Tellius is a prisoner of Lord Tselloch—and no one knows where to find him. It’s up to Darcy and her friends to discover the location of Tselloch’s invisible fortress, get past the hordes of shadow-forces, and set Tellius free. And there’s more at stake here than one man’s rescue. Despite Tselloch’s claims of invincibility, Darcy is sure there’s a way to defeat him. The only trouble is that Tselloch alone can reveal his secret weakness. How can she possibly convince the dark lord to give himself away?
There are fewer big changes in the revised version of The Scroll than in the preceding books. However, Gateway fans are sure to enjoy an expanded scene following Darcy’s escape attempt with Tellius. And the best change of all comes near the end. Read my full review here
There are fewer big changes in the revised version of The Scroll than in the preceding books. However, Gateway fans are sure to enjoy an expanded scene following Darcy’s escape attempt with Tellius. And the best change of all comes near the end. Read my full review here
July 30, 2025
Short Review: I continue to be really impressed with the craft of these books. They are well paced, have a depth to the stories that I think will make re-reading a pleasure. And they layers that will appeal to adults that may be missed by younger readers that they are targeted at.
I am not going to say too much about the plot because if you have not read the previous books, this one is largely impossible to talk about without spoilers.
Like the White Thread, this is a story mostly about a rescue. But it is not simply another take at the traditional quest narrative in fantasy fiction, because much of the book is about the preparation for the rescue. I am swamped with work but I really am going to try to squeeze in the last book of the series next week.
My full review with some spoilers is on my blog at http://bookwi.se/the-scroll/
I am not going to say too much about the plot because if you have not read the previous books, this one is largely impossible to talk about without spoilers.
Like the White Thread, this is a story mostly about a rescue. But it is not simply another take at the traditional quest narrative in fantasy fiction, because much of the book is about the preparation for the rescue. I am swamped with work but I really am going to try to squeeze in the last book of the series next week.
My full review with some spoilers is on my blog at http://bookwi.se/the-scroll/
October 18, 2013
Are you kidding me? Can I do more than 5 stars? From the first moment to the last, non-stop action. SO much to ponder. Questions answered; more introduced. GREAT story that will draw you in and not let go.
Read
July 28, 2022The best book yet in this enjoyable young adult fantasy series. Can not wait for the final book to be published!
April 29, 2019
I've been looking forward to re-reading this one, since I really enjoyed the individual plot and its overall contribution to the master plot. Once again, I'll try to give an overview without giving away important details.
Darcy, Sam, and Lewis do what they can to stay sane during the school year. Sam's talent crosses over into our world with a gift for Darcy. The gift gives her comfort at first, but it's not meant to last. There's trouble in Alitheia, and another rescue mission will be needed. Darcy is starting to understand Colin's role and allegiances, and things get scary fast after they get to Cedar Cove. Tselloch issues his ransom demand and the conditions for the captive's release.
Having a main character held captive for much of the book creates a great deal of tension, and the lengthy wait to satisfy the ransom demand takes its toll. The first half of the book tends to move slower as a result. The enemy's messages wear Darcy down and spur her to rash actions with dire consequences, but good still comes of her misadventure. Part of her prophecy is fulfilled, and she learns a valuable lesson about listening to the darkness. Grace is given, and it's beautiful.
The Scroll has one of the best individual plot resolutions for its own volume that blew my mind the first time I read it. This volume has several plot twists and another difficult and painful ending to lead into the final book and the master plot's resolution. As Rubidius and Amelia assure Darcy, there's always hope, even if it seems all is lost.
Darcy, Sam, and Lewis do what they can to stay sane during the school year. Sam's talent crosses over into our world with a gift for Darcy. The gift gives her comfort at first, but it's not meant to last. There's trouble in Alitheia, and another rescue mission will be needed. Darcy is starting to understand Colin's role and allegiances, and things get scary fast after they get to Cedar Cove. Tselloch issues his ransom demand and the conditions for the captive's release.
Having a main character held captive for much of the book creates a great deal of tension, and the lengthy wait to satisfy the ransom demand takes its toll. The first half of the book tends to move slower as a result. The enemy's messages wear Darcy down and spur her to rash actions with dire consequences, but good still comes of her misadventure. Part of her prophecy is fulfilled, and she learns a valuable lesson about listening to the darkness. Grace is given, and it's beautiful.
The Scroll has one of the best individual plot resolutions for its own volume that blew my mind the first time I read it. This volume has several plot twists and another difficult and painful ending to lead into the final book and the master plot's resolution. As Rubidius and Amelia assure Darcy, there's always hope, even if it seems all is lost.
November 18, 2019
>Book Review – The Scroll
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 5th in the Gateway Chronicles series and ends in a cliffhanger. Darcy is able to see Tellius using a magic mirror, during her year on Earth. She sees him being captured and tortured. Surviving and acting as a normal teen would, all while knowing your love is being tortured is a difficult job for Darcy. There are a lot of new circumstances in this book. Darcy has new abilities. Sam and Perry are a new couple. There is even a new pet dragon.
>Darcy’s parents and brother feel she is acting so odd, they try to come up with a plan to help her. Darcy cannot tell them anything, nor can she really act normal or do normal things, like date. There is a wonderful wedding in this story that is so romantic, all while being very “G” rated. The action in this book is the plot to rescue Tellius, which has a lot of prophesy and journeying.
This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this story 5 stars.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 5th in the Gateway Chronicles series and ends in a cliffhanger. Darcy is able to see Tellius using a magic mirror, during her year on Earth. She sees him being captured and tortured. Surviving and acting as a normal teen would, all while knowing your love is being tortured is a difficult job for Darcy. There are a lot of new circumstances in this book. Darcy has new abilities. Sam and Perry are a new couple. There is even a new pet dragon.
>Darcy’s parents and brother feel she is acting so odd, they try to come up with a plan to help her. Darcy cannot tell them anything, nor can she really act normal or do normal things, like date. There is a wonderful wedding in this story that is so romantic, all while being very “G” rated. The action in this book is the plot to rescue Tellius, which has a lot of prophesy and journeying.
This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this story 5 stars.
November 6, 2018
The book The Scroll by K. B. Hoyle is all about Darcy Pennington and her five friends trying to rescue the king of the magical world Alitheia. One morning Darcy’s companion, Sam, finds a mirror under her pillow. With the mirror, you can see anyone you want, as long as you say their name. Darcy says her lover’s name, Tellius the king and finds out he has been captured and tortured. She and her friends Sam, Amelia, Dean, Perry, and Lewis go to Alitheia and discover some secrets that people didn’t know for a long time. Tselloch sends one of his servants, a boy from their world, Colin, to try to get them to make a deal for exchange for their king, Tellius. Of course, they immediately throw him the dungeon and don’t make agree and find another way to get their king back. I thought the book was a great book and definitely recommend reading this book the rest of the series.
September 13, 2024
I am eager to finish this beloved series. It reminds me a lot of, obviously, the Chronicles of Narnia with the magic and fantasy elements. However, the best part about the book, to me, is how much it reminds me of another book- Stepping Heavenward. The way Hoyle deepens and broadens character's development is astounding to me. Darcy was not a beloved character in The Six, but in The Scroll, she is amazing. She is easily one of my favorite female characters of all time because of the tremendous growth. Hoyle does a great job making her human, likable, and STRONG which is really hard to do! I cannot wait to finish this series...but at the same time, I don't want to. I guess that means I can look forward to a re-read. Highly, highly recommend.
September 7, 2019
Better than book 4, IMO, in that characters other than Darcy have a more significant roles to play and progress in their development. Overall the writing seems better, too, with only one really jarring malapropism: “reprisal” on p. 237 where “reprieve” is surely meant. I’m generally positive on this series and would recommend it for YA readers.
August 23, 2021
This series really knows how to pull in your heartstrings! I hated some of the characters at first, then loved them, then hated them again but really deep down you can feel their love growing for each other and their humanity in that they make mistakes and hurt each other’s feelings but in the end they have each other’s backs and really do love each other.
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