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A Game of Noctis
A thrilling middle grade fantasy about a girl who must participate in a deadly game with a ragtag team of players to save her grandfather from a terrible fate—perfect for fans of James Riley and Shannon Messenger!
In the opulent, sinking city of Dantessa, the Great Game rules all. Pia Paro believes that so long as you follow the rules, you always have a chance at winning. But after her beloved Gramps is sentenced to a life of servitude, Pia accepts a dangerous offer and joins a team of players seeking to win the most perilous game of all: Noctis.
The Seafoxes—Pia’s new teammates—are unlike anyone she’s ever met. There’s brash, bold Carlo; macabre Serafina; kindhearted Pasquale; and their dashing ringleader, Vittoria. Each has their own reason for playing, and soon, Pia begins to question all her long-held beliefs. Maybe the rules Pia once trusted to lift her up have only been keeping her—and thousands of others like her—down.
As she struggles with these revelations, Pia must survive a gauntlet of clockwork soldiers, perilous underwater adventures, and even a game against Death herself. But with Pia’s grandfather’s life at stake, Pia must finally decide whether she’s brave enough to not just break the rules, but to change the very nature of the Game.
In the opulent, sinking city of Dantessa, the Great Game rules all. Pia Paro believes that so long as you follow the rules, you always have a chance at winning. But after her beloved Gramps is sentenced to a life of servitude, Pia accepts a dangerous offer and joins a team of players seeking to win the most perilous game of all: Noctis.
The Seafoxes—Pia’s new teammates—are unlike anyone she’s ever met. There’s brash, bold Carlo; macabre Serafina; kindhearted Pasquale; and their dashing ringleader, Vittoria. Each has their own reason for playing, and soon, Pia begins to question all her long-held beliefs. Maybe the rules Pia once trusted to lift her up have only been keeping her—and thousands of others like her—down.
As she struggles with these revelations, Pia must survive a gauntlet of clockwork soldiers, perilous underwater adventures, and even a game against Death herself. But with Pia’s grandfather’s life at stake, Pia must finally decide whether she’s brave enough to not just break the rules, but to change the very nature of the Game.
Audio CD
First published April 9, 2024
56 people are currently reading
1027 people want to read
About the author
Deva Fagan
10 books204 followersI write fantasy and science fiction for readers of all ages. I live in Maine with my husband and our dog. When I'm not writing I spend my time reading, playing video games, doing geometry, and drinking copious amounts of tea.
NOTE: My comments on books I've read are not meant to be critical reviews, but are just my own reactions. I don't generally use stars, but I do occasionally mark a book with five stars if it's one that feels like it will become a long-term favorite, because it's exactly my sort of book, and caters to my specific tastes as a reader. There are plenty of books I read and really admire that are clearly excellent books, but which are not so exactly "for me" that I give them five stars. I will unabashedly stop reading books I really don't care for, so if a book is on my read list at all it means I liked it enough to finish it.
NOTE: My comments on books I've read are not meant to be critical reviews, but are just my own reactions. I don't generally use stars, but I do occasionally mark a book with five stars if it's one that feels like it will become a long-term favorite, because it's exactly my sort of book, and caters to my specific tastes as a reader. There are plenty of books I read and really admire that are clearly excellent books, but which are not so exactly "for me" that I give them five stars. I will unabashedly stop reading books I really don't care for, so if a book is on my read list at all it means I liked it enough to finish it.
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April 22, 2024Hello Readers! This is my seventh middle grade fantasy adventure and I wanted to share a few notes here. First of all, huge thanks to designer Karyn Lee and artist Viv Tanner for this gorgeous cover! There is so much I love about this cover which so perfectly captures the fierce determination of Pia and her friends and the dangerous magical world they live in.
This story had a long and twisty journey to publication, and I am just so happy that it is finally out in the world, and deeply grateful I had the opportunity to tell it. This book is both my love letter to game-playing and an interrogation of gamification and the dangers of assuming that everyone is playing by the same rules.
Happy reading!
This story had a long and twisty journey to publication, and I am just so happy that it is finally out in the world, and deeply grateful I had the opportunity to tell it. This book is both my love letter to game-playing and an interrogation of gamification and the dangers of assuming that everyone is playing by the same rules.
Happy reading!
April 27, 2024
✰ 3 stars ✰
“All my life, I’d loved games. Loved the challenges, loved the thrill. Losing was never fun, of course, but I learned from my mistakes.
And I always knew, deep inside, at the core of my being, that I could eventually win.”
In a world where lives and laws are dictated by a deadly game of Noctis, twelve-year-old Pia Paro starts to question the system she once so strongly believed in when her grandfather is taken into custody without reprieve. And the only way she knows to seek justice for him and save him from a terrible fate is to join the Seafoxes, a ragtag team of misfit players, each with their own desire to win A Game of Noctis that also could finally change the clandestine rules that have governed their world for countless of years. ✨
“Games can be magic,” said Ginevra. “They can give us hope and joy, make us laugh, make us feel more alive. But they can trick us too. They can make us believe that there’s always a winner and a loser. That what matters is being right, not doing the right thing.”
I was initially drawn to how vibrant the cover was, but I was pleasantly surprised at it being a well thought-out if not entertaining middle grade read with a likeable enough protagonist that did not have me completely bored with the story. Think Hunger Games, but with a lighter touch to it. 🎲⚡ 'Noctis was supposed to be a challenge of wit and grace, charm and cleverness. Not threats and intimidation and payoffs' - where the threat isn't entirely deadly, but still frightening and challenging enough for the tension to escalate at a palpable level that will have readers enjoy how everything unfolds. 🌟
With a fascinating mix of puzzle-solving and deadly games with a legendary fantastical-touch prophecy that ties everything together, I liked seeing Pia grow as a character with her new teammates - ones who lent their strength and courage for her to see how very jaded her views on the games had been, as well as help her seek out their support when facing up to the superior powers that threatened their existence. 🥺 'Sometimes you need to lose a battle in order to win the war.' The dialogue and writing also seemed fitting for young readers along with the usual diverse cast that will feel relatable to a mix of readers - the bold, the daring, the brawn, the brains, and the charismatic leader. It's not a critique, but one that I didn't mind having, considering how smoothly their interactions felt and how easily the narration flowed. 👌🏻
“To be here, surrounded by players, surrounded by so many games, many of which were completely new to me. I wanted to learn them all. Play them all. Win them all.”
Pia has her own traumatic past that she has to shield herself from - one that is made up with her fierce tenacity and spirited bravery and her skillful talents that she displays as a passionate ket player in the Games. She's that inadvertent leader who sees the cracks in the system and leads the rebellion that demands swift action and change - without really endangering anyone's lives, because well, it is a middle grade. ☺️ Friendships and rivalries play a major part in the story, and I liked how the once-closed Pia finally allows others to help her, while also learning what it means to be part of a team that looks out for each other - without making rash decisions that could endanger everyone involved.
While the world building was not entirely a unique one, it was still well developed and the magical system was easy to grasp, along with the rules of Noctis, itself. 👍🏻 It was a fun touch to see how points are rewarded and how it served as a compelling, if not tempting drive for Pia and her teammates to react in certain ways that could either harm them or have them victorious in the face of a looming threat. The conflict was resolved in a well-rounded and hopeful light that made it a satisfying read that young fantasy readers who seek out the thrill of a deadly game with high stakes will surely enjoy. ♣️🏹
“All my life, I’d loved games. Loved the challenges, loved the thrill. Losing was never fun, of course, but I learned from my mistakes.
And I always knew, deep inside, at the core of my being, that I could eventually win.”
In a world where lives and laws are dictated by a deadly game of Noctis, twelve-year-old Pia Paro starts to question the system she once so strongly believed in when her grandfather is taken into custody without reprieve. And the only way she knows to seek justice for him and save him from a terrible fate is to join the Seafoxes, a ragtag team of misfit players, each with their own desire to win A Game of Noctis that also could finally change the clandestine rules that have governed their world for countless of years. ✨
“Games can be magic,” said Ginevra. “They can give us hope and joy, make us laugh, make us feel more alive. But they can trick us too. They can make us believe that there’s always a winner and a loser. That what matters is being right, not doing the right thing.”
I was initially drawn to how vibrant the cover was, but I was pleasantly surprised at it being a well thought-out if not entertaining middle grade read with a likeable enough protagonist that did not have me completely bored with the story. Think Hunger Games, but with a lighter touch to it. 🎲⚡ 'Noctis was supposed to be a challenge of wit and grace, charm and cleverness. Not threats and intimidation and payoffs' - where the threat isn't entirely deadly, but still frightening and challenging enough for the tension to escalate at a palpable level that will have readers enjoy how everything unfolds. 🌟
With a fascinating mix of puzzle-solving and deadly games with a legendary fantastical-touch prophecy that ties everything together, I liked seeing Pia grow as a character with her new teammates - ones who lent their strength and courage for her to see how very jaded her views on the games had been, as well as help her seek out their support when facing up to the superior powers that threatened their existence. 🥺 'Sometimes you need to lose a battle in order to win the war.' The dialogue and writing also seemed fitting for young readers along with the usual diverse cast that will feel relatable to a mix of readers - the bold, the daring, the brawn, the brains, and the charismatic leader. It's not a critique, but one that I didn't mind having, considering how smoothly their interactions felt and how easily the narration flowed. 👌🏻
“To be here, surrounded by players, surrounded by so many games, many of which were completely new to me. I wanted to learn them all. Play them all. Win them all.”
Pia has her own traumatic past that she has to shield herself from - one that is made up with her fierce tenacity and spirited bravery and her skillful talents that she displays as a passionate ket player in the Games. She's that inadvertent leader who sees the cracks in the system and leads the rebellion that demands swift action and change - without really endangering anyone's lives, because well, it is a middle grade. ☺️ Friendships and rivalries play a major part in the story, and I liked how the once-closed Pia finally allows others to help her, while also learning what it means to be part of a team that looks out for each other - without making rash decisions that could endanger everyone involved.
While the world building was not entirely a unique one, it was still well developed and the magical system was easy to grasp, along with the rules of Noctis, itself. 👍🏻 It was a fun touch to see how points are rewarded and how it served as a compelling, if not tempting drive for Pia and her teammates to react in certain ways that could either harm them or have them victorious in the face of a looming threat. The conflict was resolved in a well-rounded and hopeful light that made it a satisfying read that young fantasy readers who seek out the thrill of a deadly game with high stakes will surely enjoy. ♣️🏹
August 15, 2024
Such a lovely book with games galore and a lot of insight into the American Dream.
June 14, 2024
A more placid Hunger Games meets Escape from Mr. Leomonchello’s Library. The games were plentiful, if a bit hard for me to picture. I appreciated how it shined the difference between equality and equity, even if it were none too subtle about it. I can’t say I felt super engaged with the characters, but it tried hard.
52 Book Club: #30 - Picked without reading the blurb
52 Book Club: #30 - Picked without reading the blurb
June 2, 2024
I often hesitate to call stories original, given the vast dialogue of books over time, but I fail to think of another way to describe the setting of this story. The use of games as the primary driving force/determinant of social standing in this world immediately grabbed my attention and refused to let it wane throughout. The idea of a world based on games at first glance seems both outrageous and idyllic, but A Game of Noctis manages to make it neither, creating a fresh and interesting setting.
I also loved how Fagan executed the flaws of this world. She manages to create a society that is clearly flawed, and whose flaws are examined and dissected, without falling prey to common dystopian tropes that might make the world feel flat. Certainly, all the characters are not objectively ‘good’, but I do truly believe that nearly all of them are doing their best to make things better, which made me enjoy the entire story so much more than I would have had it presented a binary, us-versus-them worldview.
The characters were also excellent. Getting to know the Seafoxes over the course of this story was one of my favorite parts of A Game of Noctis; my evolving understanding of them, particularly of Serafina and Pasquale, made me keep turning the pages. But Pia definitely stood among them all; tenacious and clever, I fell in love with her from page one. I highly recommend A Game of Noctis to readers ages nine and up who are looking for a fast-paced adventure that they won’t be able to resist falling in love with!
Thank you so much to Deva Fagan for sending a copy of A Game of Noctis in exchange for an honest review! All opinions here are my own.
I also loved how Fagan executed the flaws of this world. She manages to create a society that is clearly flawed, and whose flaws are examined and dissected, without falling prey to common dystopian tropes that might make the world feel flat. Certainly, all the characters are not objectively ‘good’, but I do truly believe that nearly all of them are doing their best to make things better, which made me enjoy the entire story so much more than I would have had it presented a binary, us-versus-them worldview.
The characters were also excellent. Getting to know the Seafoxes over the course of this story was one of my favorite parts of A Game of Noctis; my evolving understanding of them, particularly of Serafina and Pasquale, made me keep turning the pages. But Pia definitely stood among them all; tenacious and clever, I fell in love with her from page one. I highly recommend A Game of Noctis to readers ages nine and up who are looking for a fast-paced adventure that they won’t be able to resist falling in love with!
Thank you so much to Deva Fagan for sending a copy of A Game of Noctis in exchange for an honest review! All opinions here are my own.
April 11, 2025
exciting, nicely written middle grade book.
November 22, 2024
This was honestly stellar. The world the author weaves is so intricate and interesting and just plain FUN, the only thing that holds this book back is that it has to be rather surface level to keep it to a single volume. One-offs are fun though, and I had a blast with this one!
March 21, 2024
A beautifully gripping, thought-provoking, and fun magical read!
August 21, 2025
It's fun, the idea is great but once again (as I've noticed in most books tvat came out the last 1-3 years) the author wants to do too much in too little time to the point where things become ridiculous.
Don't get me wrong, I really loved and enjoyed the concept of this world. It's fun to read and immerse oneself in. It's silly. Too silly at times tho. But I think this would translate great into a DnD One Shot or sth of the sort.
But there were some things I wish that had been put more thought into them.
I would've prefered the author focusing on only a handful fleshed-out games instead of throwing in multiple "shallow" ones that are basically those you know from your childhood but with "fancy" names (which I get is the point of the book, kinda, but still sometimes led to logic errors and allowed almost no suspense). Or such that I wouldn't even consider proper games. And some rules didn't make any sense other than being "silly and fun" (which became rather tedious fast). And I know this was sort of explained towards the end but didn't made it any more fun to read.
Also the author introduces a lot of other things like boons and stuff, which, if only used for a small part or certain games could work but more often than not felt rather all over the place.
Another thing that bothered me, was the absence of "stakes" and "consequences". Sure, the book makes you believe it has those things but once introduced, at some point an easy solution or explanation arises. It rids the story of tension. Unfortunately.
Especially after Chapter 16 the life-threatening danger and excitment of encountering Lady Death in the finale of the games was being completely erased.
Also the twist/revelation in Chapter 22 doesn't feel that rewarding because it felt too easy.
Last but not least, I think the book would have profited from an external narration, focusing on all players alike and make the reader feel for them as a whole.
This being said. I still enjoyed the book most of the time. It was an easy read and fun. I loved the reveal/concept of the game master, the underlying metaphors and allegories, the harsh critique and disappointment of an imperfect system, and I'll definitely gonna take inspiration for a DnD campaign!
I just wish the story weren't so rushed.
Don't get me wrong, I really loved and enjoyed the concept of this world. It's fun to read and immerse oneself in. It's silly. Too silly at times tho. But I think this would translate great into a DnD One Shot or sth of the sort.
But there were some things I wish that had been put more thought into them.
I would've prefered the author focusing on only a handful fleshed-out games instead of throwing in multiple "shallow" ones that are basically those you know from your childhood but with "fancy" names (which I get is the point of the book, kinda, but still sometimes led to logic errors and allowed almost no suspense). Or such that I wouldn't even consider proper games. And some rules didn't make any sense other than being "silly and fun" (which became rather tedious fast). And I know this was sort of explained towards the end but didn't made it any more fun to read.
Also the author introduces a lot of other things like boons and stuff, which, if only used for a small part or certain games could work but more often than not felt rather all over the place.
Another thing that bothered me, was the absence of "stakes" and "consequences". Sure, the book makes you believe it has those things but once introduced, at some point an easy solution or explanation arises. It rids the story of tension. Unfortunately.
Especially after Chapter 16 the life-threatening danger and excitment of encountering Lady Death in the finale of the games was being completely erased.
Also the twist/revelation in Chapter 22 doesn't feel that rewarding because it felt too easy.
Last but not least, I think the book would have profited from an external narration, focusing on all players alike and make the reader feel for them as a whole.
This being said. I still enjoyed the book most of the time. It was an easy read and fun. I loved the reveal/concept of the game master, the underlying metaphors and allegories, the harsh critique and disappointment of an imperfect system, and I'll definitely gonna take inspiration for a DnD campaign!
I just wish the story weren't so rushed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2025
3.5 Sterne
Ein gleichermaßen hoffnungsvolles und deprimierendes Kinderbuch, das sehr viel mehr ist als man auf den ersten Blick meint.
Eine Welt, in der jeder erfolgreich sein kann, wenn er hart arbeitet und sich an die Regeln hält.
Aber nicht jede:r spielt fair. Und die gleichen Regeln gelten nicht für alle gleich...
Ab 12 kann jeder Bewohner spielen, um einen höheren Rang, Geld, und ein besseres Leben zu gewinnen. Die Besten treten jährlich zu einem großen Spiel an, bei dem es um alles geht.
Die Spiele geben uns Regeln und Struktur. Sie schenken uns die Kontrolle über unser Leben.
Doch dieses Jahr tritt eine Gruppe Außenseiter an. Die vor allem eins wollen: Gerechtigkeit für sich und ihre geliebten Menschen, ein Leben ohne Spiele, bei denen jede:r jede Zeit alles verlieren kann. Denn wozu spielt man, wenn nicht für die Hoffnung, dass Dinge sich ändern können?
Manchmal reicht es, ein paar weitere Stufen zu bauen, damit der Nächste ein Stück weiterkommt.
Oberflächlich betrachtet also Hunger Games mit Gameshow Elementen und einer diversen Gruppe von Dreamers.
Wenn man will, kann man allerdings so viel mehr in dieses Buch reinlesen.
Ich war positiv überrascht, wie viel in diesem kleinen Buch steckt. Es ist super geschrieben und schwer wegzulegen. Ja, es ist nicht perfekt und vielleicht ein bisschen zu kurz, als dass man als erwachsene Person wirklich glaubt, dass die Kinder am Ende etwas ändern können. Aber das ist das schöne an Hoffnung.
*Leseexemplar vom Verlag via NetGalley erhalten*
Ein gleichermaßen hoffnungsvolles und deprimierendes Kinderbuch, das sehr viel mehr ist als man auf den ersten Blick meint.
Eine Welt, in der jeder erfolgreich sein kann, wenn er hart arbeitet und sich an die Regeln hält.
Aber nicht jede:r spielt fair. Und die gleichen Regeln gelten nicht für alle gleich...
Ab 12 kann jeder Bewohner spielen, um einen höheren Rang, Geld, und ein besseres Leben zu gewinnen. Die Besten treten jährlich zu einem großen Spiel an, bei dem es um alles geht.
Die Spiele geben uns Regeln und Struktur. Sie schenken uns die Kontrolle über unser Leben.
Doch dieses Jahr tritt eine Gruppe Außenseiter an. Die vor allem eins wollen: Gerechtigkeit für sich und ihre geliebten Menschen, ein Leben ohne Spiele, bei denen jede:r jede Zeit alles verlieren kann. Denn wozu spielt man, wenn nicht für die Hoffnung, dass Dinge sich ändern können?
Manchmal reicht es, ein paar weitere Stufen zu bauen, damit der Nächste ein Stück weiterkommt.
Oberflächlich betrachtet also Hunger Games mit Gameshow Elementen und einer diversen Gruppe von Dreamers.
Wenn man will, kann man allerdings so viel mehr in dieses Buch reinlesen.
Ich war positiv überrascht, wie viel in diesem kleinen Buch steckt. Es ist super geschrieben und schwer wegzulegen. Ja, es ist nicht perfekt und vielleicht ein bisschen zu kurz, als dass man als erwachsene Person wirklich glaubt, dass die Kinder am Ende etwas ändern können. Aber das ist das schöne an Hoffnung.
*Leseexemplar vom Verlag via NetGalley erhalten*
September 28, 2024
Dalej nie mogę uwierzyć, że niektórzy mają po 12 lat. Obłęd.
February 8, 2024
this book is kinda like if you combined the puzzles/riddles/games of the inheritance games/the gilded wolves with the cast of six of crows into a middle grade fantasy book. I love those kids so much 😭 also there’s trans rep!!
January 28, 2024
Is January too early in the year for me to start a Best of '24 list? I'm so glad I snagged this arc. I wasn't familiar with the author before but I'm definitely going to check out her other works. The story was compelling and, even though the overall idea of the Game setting/play to survive has been done I found this setting unique and fun to read and I liked the characters and their growth throughout. Also the cover is absolutely gorgeous! I can't wait until this is released to share!
August 7, 2024
If i had read this in middle school it would've been my entire personality.
September 1, 2025
Imagine a world where being good at games is necessary for survival. Why would a world like that exist, you ask? Good question. But that is the premise of A Game of Noctis.
When kids in Dantessa turn 12 they become official “players” and are given a ranking. The more you win, the higher your ranking climbs. And if it gets higher than everyone else’s, then you get to be in charge. But if you lose too much and your ranking falls to 0, you become a pawn, and are forced into servitude/slavery.
Also the money you need to buy food and everything else is earned by playing games. But if you lose, you lose your money and then you can’t eat. And if you’re rich then you can buy a higher rank and/or unpawn yourself.
Every year, there is a living game of noctis (similar to chess) where two teams of 12-15 year olds embody the five noctis characters and play against each other. Also death gets to play, and if death captures you, then you actually die. So, like the hunger games meets harry potter’s life-size chess.
So anyway, our main character Pia has just turned 12, and she and her gramps are trying to survive. Pia thinks that if she follows the rules and plays games well enough she will be successful. Unsurprisingly, this is not true, which Pia learns the hard way. And obviously she joins a team to vie for the chance to play in the live noctis death game.
This book combines everything I hate about the fantasy genre with many of the things I love about the dystopian genre. It’s plot heavy, with lots of action and twists, which will keep kids who like these kinds of books engaged. I do wonder if kids will get that this odd game economy is an allegory for capitalism. Maybe 5th and up?
When kids in Dantessa turn 12 they become official “players” and are given a ranking. The more you win, the higher your ranking climbs. And if it gets higher than everyone else’s, then you get to be in charge. But if you lose too much and your ranking falls to 0, you become a pawn, and are forced into servitude/slavery.
Also the money you need to buy food and everything else is earned by playing games. But if you lose, you lose your money and then you can’t eat. And if you’re rich then you can buy a higher rank and/or unpawn yourself.
Every year, there is a living game of noctis (similar to chess) where two teams of 12-15 year olds embody the five noctis characters and play against each other. Also death gets to play, and if death captures you, then you actually die. So, like the hunger games meets harry potter’s life-size chess.
So anyway, our main character Pia has just turned 12, and she and her gramps are trying to survive. Pia thinks that if she follows the rules and plays games well enough she will be successful. Unsurprisingly, this is not true, which Pia learns the hard way. And obviously she joins a team to vie for the chance to play in the live noctis death game.
This book combines everything I hate about the fantasy genre with many of the things I love about the dystopian genre. It’s plot heavy, with lots of action and twists, which will keep kids who like these kinds of books engaged. I do wonder if kids will get that this odd game economy is an allegory for capitalism. Maybe 5th and up?
June 8, 2025
Die besseren Hungerspiele
Ein Buch für junge Jugendliche, die Bock auf ein Spiel haben. Wunderbar bildhaft und richtig
gut geschrieben. Die Zusammenhänge und die Figuren sind bunt wie das Leben selbst.
Ein Spiel, das nie enden soll, wenn es nach den Mächtigen geht, doch unsere Truppe junger
Helden sieht das anders und findet Unfassbares heraus. Es hat richtig Spaß gemacht, hier
mitzufiebern, denn es ist auch sehr kurzweilig. Man rutsch förmlich durch das Buch wie die
Figuren auf dem Brett.
Mochte ich wirklich sehr und würde es Kindern ab neun Jahren empfehlen
Ein Buch für junge Jugendliche, die Bock auf ein Spiel haben. Wunderbar bildhaft und richtig
gut geschrieben. Die Zusammenhänge und die Figuren sind bunt wie das Leben selbst.
Ein Spiel, das nie enden soll, wenn es nach den Mächtigen geht, doch unsere Truppe junger
Helden sieht das anders und findet Unfassbares heraus. Es hat richtig Spaß gemacht, hier
mitzufiebern, denn es ist auch sehr kurzweilig. Man rutsch förmlich durch das Buch wie die
Figuren auf dem Brett.
Mochte ich wirklich sehr und würde es Kindern ab neun Jahren empfehlen
September 17, 2024
Wow. This book was everything. I loved it so much! It felt like something different then the usual dystopian book. It was funny, fast paced, and had a awesome plot! I loved all the characters so much, and im heartbroken that I won’t get to see them again. Anyways read this book its a masterpiece!
October 7, 2024
Like a steampunky Warcross, this is about as fun as a middle grade book about the ethical quandaries of meritocracy and systemic privilege can be. I think this is the third book I've read by Deva Fagan and I think she deserves so much more buzz.
June 10, 2025
This was such a cool concept! A world where your status is defined by how well you play games. The games are also how you earn money or buy things. So cool! I think kids will find this high stakes book super exciting and a fun, thrilling read.
July 4, 2025
3.5 stars
July 1, 2024
Clever & fun, plus love a Venice-inspired setting.
May 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this! Game obsessed society, Venice-like setting, Hunger Games-lite, perfect for middle grade readers!
August 24, 2024
I LOVED this book, and let me tell you why, my dear fellow book loving friends!
- CHARACTERS-
One, the characters were REALLY well thought out.
To put into perspective what kind of characters these people are, I'll place the Higwarts house I think they would belong in next to their name.
Pia - Griffindor, because of her determination and bravery.
Vittoria - Slytherin, because of her cunning and ambition.
Serafina - Ravenclaw, because of her intelligence and ability to come up with an idea and act on it quickly to help her friends. (She may also be able to be in Griffindor as well.)
Carlo - Griffindor, because of his strength and fighting spirit, and his ability to NEVER give up.
Pasquale - Hufflepuff, because of his kind heart, loyalty, and hopeful spirit.
Each of the characters had a drive, a REASON for what they were doing, and that made them even MORE real to me. I fell in love with their personalities and passion.
+ 1 stars for the Characters
-WORLD-
Okay, as a blossoming author who LOVES to world build, this section is held special to my heart.
The world that this book was built on, Dantessa, is a confusing world at first, but as you read, you gain an understanding and insite to how this world works.
I love the culture of the world that is based off of GAMES. The world itself and the flaws that come with it. I love how the author made an incredible world, but gave it the flaws that only the people who suffer would see. It is an incredibly built world, and I loved exploring it with the main characters.
+ 1 stars for the World
-PLOT-
...
I HAVE NO WORDS FOR HOW WELL THOUGHT OUT AND HOW GOOD THIS PLOT WAS!
Even though the world and story were oriented towards the 6-8 grades, I LOVED reading this, even though I am WELL past those grades.
The story revolved around what is called the Great Game, which dictates the world around them. Even the push for the main character to shift from a walk into a run was a great idea.
This plot took me on a wild ride, and I couldn’t get off of said ride until it ended. 😅🤣
+ 1 stars for the Plot
-WRITING-
This book was incredibly well written as well.
The dialog between the characters clearly showed their own separate personalities and desires. It showed strength and unity, even though all of them had JUST met recently. None of it was unclear or confusing in any way.
The descriptions were well done as well. I loved how the book have just enough details to give you mind a basis and then let you brain run wild with the rest. It was a great way to color details into the story.
+ 1 stars for Writing
-OVER ALL ENJOYMENT-
Me: *claps hands together*, *takes a deep breath*
Me: ILOVEDREADINGTHISBOOKSOMUCHITHURTS!
Oh, my gosh this book was incredible from the first word. I loved the way it flowed and I loved the way the story took me on a wild goose chase and didn't let me stop moving through the story with the characters.
This book is now going to be one of my top recommendations for kids because of how good it was.
PLEASE READ IT!
+ 1 stars for Over All Enjoyment
-------
Total Stars: 5
- CHARACTERS-
One, the characters were REALLY well thought out.
To put into perspective what kind of characters these people are, I'll place the Higwarts house I think they would belong in next to their name.
Pia - Griffindor, because of her determination and bravery.
Vittoria - Slytherin, because of her cunning and ambition.
Serafina - Ravenclaw, because of her intelligence and ability to come up with an idea and act on it quickly to help her friends. (She may also be able to be in Griffindor as well.)
Carlo - Griffindor, because of his strength and fighting spirit, and his ability to NEVER give up.
Pasquale - Hufflepuff, because of his kind heart, loyalty, and hopeful spirit.
Each of the characters had a drive, a REASON for what they were doing, and that made them even MORE real to me. I fell in love with their personalities and passion.
+ 1 stars for the Characters
-WORLD-
Okay, as a blossoming author who LOVES to world build, this section is held special to my heart.
The world that this book was built on, Dantessa, is a confusing world at first, but as you read, you gain an understanding and insite to how this world works.
I love the culture of the world that is based off of GAMES. The world itself and the flaws that come with it. I love how the author made an incredible world, but gave it the flaws that only the people who suffer would see. It is an incredibly built world, and I loved exploring it with the main characters.
+ 1 stars for the World
-PLOT-
...
I HAVE NO WORDS FOR HOW WELL THOUGHT OUT AND HOW GOOD THIS PLOT WAS!
Even though the world and story were oriented towards the 6-8 grades, I LOVED reading this, even though I am WELL past those grades.
The story revolved around what is called the Great Game, which dictates the world around them. Even the push for the main character to shift from a walk into a run was a great idea.
This plot took me on a wild ride, and I couldn’t get off of said ride until it ended. 😅🤣
+ 1 stars for the Plot
-WRITING-
This book was incredibly well written as well.
The dialog between the characters clearly showed their own separate personalities and desires. It showed strength and unity, even though all of them had JUST met recently. None of it was unclear or confusing in any way.
The descriptions were well done as well. I loved how the book have just enough details to give you mind a basis and then let you brain run wild with the rest. It was a great way to color details into the story.
+ 1 stars for Writing
-OVER ALL ENJOYMENT-
Me: *claps hands together*, *takes a deep breath*
Me: ILOVEDREADINGTHISBOOKSOMUCHITHURTS!
Oh, my gosh this book was incredible from the first word. I loved the way it flowed and I loved the way the story took me on a wild goose chase and didn't let me stop moving through the story with the characters.
This book is now going to be one of my top recommendations for kids because of how good it was.
PLEASE READ IT!
+ 1 stars for Over All Enjoyment
-------
Total Stars: 5
April 20, 2025
Ein magisches Spiel, doch wie fair ist es? Spannend und gesellschaftskritisch für alle ab etwa 10 Jahren
Das erste, das mich an "Game of Noctis - Spiel um dein Leben" von Deva Fagan fasziniert hat, war dieses schöne Cover, das nicht nur die wichtigsten Figuren der Geschichte zeigt, sondern auch Dantessa, eine Stadt, die mich mit ihren Wasserstraßen gleich an Venedig erinnert hat.
Die Geschichte wird aus der Sicht von Pia Paro erzählt, einem Mädchen, das durch ihr strategisches Geschick ein großes Talent für viele Spiele hat, aber aus ärmlichen Verhältnissen stammt. Als ihr Großvater aus Dantessa verbannt wird, bietet ihr nur das große Spiel Noctis die Möglichkeit, genug Geld zu erspielen, um ihn wieder zurückzuholen. Pia ist bereit, alles zu tun, um ihren einzigen lebenden Verwandten zu retten.
Zum Glück ist Pia nicht allein, denn sie trifft auf das Team der Seefüchse, angeführt von der mysteriösen Vittoria. Dabei ist es schön zu lesen, wie die Gruppe von Kindern langsam zusammenwächst und durch die verschiedensten Übungsspiele Vertrauen zueinander aufbaut. Auch die Nebenfiguren sind hier sehr gut ausgearbeitet und haben ganz verschiedene Hintergründe, die sie dazu bringen, ihr Bestes zu geben.
Spätestens mit Beginn des großen Spiels wird es dann richtig spannend, denn bei Noctis geht es um Leben und Tod und die Gefahren lauern überall. Die Spiele haben alle etwas Magisches an sich, was mir sehr gut gefallen hat. So gibt es Teams, die plötzlich fliegen können oder eine Arena, die an ein gefährliches Schlaraffenland erinnert.
Besonders spannend fand ich aber die gesellschaftskritischen Aspekte, die sich auch auf die reale Welt übertragen lassen. Es gibt Spielregeln, die für alle gelten, aber von Reichen und Mächtigen durch Geld oder andere Einflüsse übertreten werden können. Einige wenige Personen sind privilegiert und können sich in den Spielen Zusatzfähigkeiten kaufen, die ihnen gewaltige Vorteile bringen.
So treten die Seefüchse als Team aus den Armenvierteln gegen Teams mit Macht und Vermögen an. Dabei wird Pia im Laufe der Geschichte immer bewusster, wie ungerecht das System an sich ist und es geht bei dem Spiel längst nicht mehr nur um die Rettung ihres Großvaters.
Der Schreibstil von Deva Fagan ist fesselnd und sehr spannend, auch wenn die Action erst mit dem großen Spiel so richtig losgeht. Zwar spielt der Tod in der Geschichte durchaus eine Rolle, aber "Game of Noctis" ist bei Weitem nicht so brutal wie zum Beispiel die Tribute von Panem und damit für alle ab etwa 10 Jahren geeignet.
Wegen der magischen Elemente empfehle ich das Buch allen, die gerne Fantasy Geschichten mögen. Aber auch alle, die gerne Kinderbücher lesen, in denen der Status quo angezweifelt wird und eine gerechtere Welt nur durch gesellschaftliche Veränderungen möglich ist, werden hier Spaß beim Lesen haben und zum Nachdenken angeregt.
Das erste, das mich an "Game of Noctis - Spiel um dein Leben" von Deva Fagan fasziniert hat, war dieses schöne Cover, das nicht nur die wichtigsten Figuren der Geschichte zeigt, sondern auch Dantessa, eine Stadt, die mich mit ihren Wasserstraßen gleich an Venedig erinnert hat.
Die Geschichte wird aus der Sicht von Pia Paro erzählt, einem Mädchen, das durch ihr strategisches Geschick ein großes Talent für viele Spiele hat, aber aus ärmlichen Verhältnissen stammt. Als ihr Großvater aus Dantessa verbannt wird, bietet ihr nur das große Spiel Noctis die Möglichkeit, genug Geld zu erspielen, um ihn wieder zurückzuholen. Pia ist bereit, alles zu tun, um ihren einzigen lebenden Verwandten zu retten.
Zum Glück ist Pia nicht allein, denn sie trifft auf das Team der Seefüchse, angeführt von der mysteriösen Vittoria. Dabei ist es schön zu lesen, wie die Gruppe von Kindern langsam zusammenwächst und durch die verschiedensten Übungsspiele Vertrauen zueinander aufbaut. Auch die Nebenfiguren sind hier sehr gut ausgearbeitet und haben ganz verschiedene Hintergründe, die sie dazu bringen, ihr Bestes zu geben.
Spätestens mit Beginn des großen Spiels wird es dann richtig spannend, denn bei Noctis geht es um Leben und Tod und die Gefahren lauern überall. Die Spiele haben alle etwas Magisches an sich, was mir sehr gut gefallen hat. So gibt es Teams, die plötzlich fliegen können oder eine Arena, die an ein gefährliches Schlaraffenland erinnert.
Besonders spannend fand ich aber die gesellschaftskritischen Aspekte, die sich auch auf die reale Welt übertragen lassen. Es gibt Spielregeln, die für alle gelten, aber von Reichen und Mächtigen durch Geld oder andere Einflüsse übertreten werden können. Einige wenige Personen sind privilegiert und können sich in den Spielen Zusatzfähigkeiten kaufen, die ihnen gewaltige Vorteile bringen.
So treten die Seefüchse als Team aus den Armenvierteln gegen Teams mit Macht und Vermögen an. Dabei wird Pia im Laufe der Geschichte immer bewusster, wie ungerecht das System an sich ist und es geht bei dem Spiel längst nicht mehr nur um die Rettung ihres Großvaters.
Der Schreibstil von Deva Fagan ist fesselnd und sehr spannend, auch wenn die Action erst mit dem großen Spiel so richtig losgeht. Zwar spielt der Tod in der Geschichte durchaus eine Rolle, aber "Game of Noctis" ist bei Weitem nicht so brutal wie zum Beispiel die Tribute von Panem und damit für alle ab etwa 10 Jahren geeignet.
Wegen der magischen Elemente empfehle ich das Buch allen, die gerne Fantasy Geschichten mögen. Aber auch alle, die gerne Kinderbücher lesen, in denen der Status quo angezweifelt wird und eine gerechtere Welt nur durch gesellschaftliche Veränderungen möglich ist, werden hier Spaß beim Lesen haben und zum Nachdenken angeregt.
April 28, 2025
Spiel um dein Leben, oder das von allen!
Das Cover von Game of Noctis war das Erste, was mich angesprochen hat, danach kam der Klappentext und der Rest ist Geschichte. Mir hat der Schreibstil richtig gut gefallen, er lässt sich flüssig und schnell lesen, was mich förmlich durch die Seiten hat fliegen lassen.
Ein bisschen hat mich die Idee mit dem Spiel Noctis an die Tribute von Panem erinnert, nur harmloser, obwohl es letztendlich nicht um weniger geht. Die Charaktere hab ich in kürzester Zeit in mein Herz geschlossen und wenn ich einmal nicht gelesen habe (was, um ehrlich zu sein, kaum vorgekommen ist), dann habe ich nur daran gedacht, wie es wohl weitergehen könnte.
Die Thematik rund um die Spiele hat mich definitiv von sich überzeugt und ich mochte, wie die Welt aufgebaut wurde. Generell ist der Weltenaufbau für dieses Buch nicht zu kurz gekommen, was ich nur positiv anmerken kann.
Die Umsetzung mochte ich ebenfalls sehr, das Buch war, wie schon erwähnt, spannend genug, dass ich es in kürzester Zeit förmlich inhaliert habe. Hatte demnach definitiv auch meinen Spaß beim Lesen, nicht nur, weil es sich so flüssig lesen lässt, sondern auch, weil zwischen dem Ernst der Lage immer wieder ein paar lustige Situationen entstanden sind, über die ich schon lachen musste.
Die Figuren kamen mir an sich wirklich authentisch vor, allerdings habe ich mich manchmal gefragt, ob zwölfjährige heutzutage bereits so erwachsen agieren, ich habe das in dem Alter nämlich sicherlich nicht gemacht. Allerdings könnte das natürlich auch den Umständen der Welt geschuldet sein und dass alle Kinder dort schnell erwachsen werden mussten, aus welchen Gründen nun auch immer. Vielleicht also auch gerechtfertigt.
Fazit:
Ich mochte auf jeden Fall was für eine große Rolle die Spiele in dieser Welt gespielt haben und auch die Charaktere mochte ich sehr. Bin nur so durch dieses Buch geflogen und kann es echt nur empfehlen.
Das Cover von Game of Noctis war das Erste, was mich angesprochen hat, danach kam der Klappentext und der Rest ist Geschichte. Mir hat der Schreibstil richtig gut gefallen, er lässt sich flüssig und schnell lesen, was mich förmlich durch die Seiten hat fliegen lassen.
Ein bisschen hat mich die Idee mit dem Spiel Noctis an die Tribute von Panem erinnert, nur harmloser, obwohl es letztendlich nicht um weniger geht. Die Charaktere hab ich in kürzester Zeit in mein Herz geschlossen und wenn ich einmal nicht gelesen habe (was, um ehrlich zu sein, kaum vorgekommen ist), dann habe ich nur daran gedacht, wie es wohl weitergehen könnte.
Die Thematik rund um die Spiele hat mich definitiv von sich überzeugt und ich mochte, wie die Welt aufgebaut wurde. Generell ist der Weltenaufbau für dieses Buch nicht zu kurz gekommen, was ich nur positiv anmerken kann.
Die Umsetzung mochte ich ebenfalls sehr, das Buch war, wie schon erwähnt, spannend genug, dass ich es in kürzester Zeit förmlich inhaliert habe. Hatte demnach definitiv auch meinen Spaß beim Lesen, nicht nur, weil es sich so flüssig lesen lässt, sondern auch, weil zwischen dem Ernst der Lage immer wieder ein paar lustige Situationen entstanden sind, über die ich schon lachen musste.
Die Figuren kamen mir an sich wirklich authentisch vor, allerdings habe ich mich manchmal gefragt, ob zwölfjährige heutzutage bereits so erwachsen agieren, ich habe das in dem Alter nämlich sicherlich nicht gemacht. Allerdings könnte das natürlich auch den Umständen der Welt geschuldet sein und dass alle Kinder dort schnell erwachsen werden mussten, aus welchen Gründen nun auch immer. Vielleicht also auch gerechtfertigt.
Fazit:
Ich mochte auf jeden Fall was für eine große Rolle die Spiele in dieser Welt gespielt haben und auch die Charaktere mochte ich sehr. Bin nur so durch dieses Buch geflogen und kann es echt nur empfehlen.
July 18, 2024
On the island of Dantessa, social standings and wealth are determined by your place in the Great Game. If you keep on winning, you can reap treasures, power, and security for yourself and your family; but if you lose too many games, you'll be exiled to Pawn Island and a life of servitude. That's what happens to 12-year-old Pia's grandfather. Due to poor vision, he struggles to see the games, but also can't afford new eyeglasses without winning. When his score falls to zero, he is sent away. Desperate to bring him back, Pia joins a ragtag group of misfits to form a team for the annual game of Noctis. The game requires contestants to perform dangerous challenges in front of a live audience, and no one outside the wealthy Diamond District has ever won. Each member of Pia's team the Seafoxes has their own reason to compete, but if they're going to win they'll have to learn to trust each other as this game will pit them against Lady Death herself. Unfortunately for the Seafoxes, the game is obviously rigged against them.
This inventive fantasy novel will quickly draw readers in and they will root for Pia and her friends in the face of obvious inequality. For readers not yet ready for the Hunger Games books, this less violent adventure novel is filled with the same fast-paced plot and endearing characters facing enormous odds and a corrupt government. The fantasy setting, on an island inspired by Venice, really helps to draw readers in and is compellingly described. Light on magic and heavy on character building, this is an exciting story for readers who like dashes of fantasy.
I started reading this book and was having a hard time getting interested, so I stepped away for a bit and came back when I had better focus and I'm really glad I did. This is my type of fantasy book -- mostly adventure.
This inventive fantasy novel will quickly draw readers in and they will root for Pia and her friends in the face of obvious inequality. For readers not yet ready for the Hunger Games books, this less violent adventure novel is filled with the same fast-paced plot and endearing characters facing enormous odds and a corrupt government. The fantasy setting, on an island inspired by Venice, really helps to draw readers in and is compellingly described. Light on magic and heavy on character building, this is an exciting story for readers who like dashes of fantasy.
I started reading this book and was having a hard time getting interested, so I stepped away for a bit and came back when I had better focus and I'm really glad I did. This is my type of fantasy book -- mostly adventure.
July 26, 2024
Two things make this book perfect for me: a game of life and death and teams or groups with distinct characters, personalities, and skills in RPG style.
In Pia's world of islands, games are happening all the time and they may threaten the lives of people in many ways. Those who constantly lose are exiled to another island as pawns and stripped of rights. To save her grandfather from this fate, Pia must take a chance at the most dangerous and famous game with others who also have someone to protect or a goal. It's not only about winning, but about changing society, rewriting history, saving their people, and unmasking the corrupted villains.
I couldn't put the book down. This is an author new to me and now I want to read all of her works. The games are exciting, creative, fun, and appropriate for young middle-grade readers but also with enough action to please an older audience. When I finished the book I wanted more, not because it was insufficient but because I wanted to return to this world and see what the characters could do next. This is probably one I would reread for the thrill of the games.
An exciting "trials" read that will please those who are not only gamers because it has great lessons of honor, friendship, respect, team play, family values, wanting to protect others, a sense of community, honesty, trust, defeating corruption, giving people choices, freedom and returning happiness to something that history turned into a death sentence: joy for playing with another without stakes.
In Pia's world of islands, games are happening all the time and they may threaten the lives of people in many ways. Those who constantly lose are exiled to another island as pawns and stripped of rights. To save her grandfather from this fate, Pia must take a chance at the most dangerous and famous game with others who also have someone to protect or a goal. It's not only about winning, but about changing society, rewriting history, saving their people, and unmasking the corrupted villains.
I couldn't put the book down. This is an author new to me and now I want to read all of her works. The games are exciting, creative, fun, and appropriate for young middle-grade readers but also with enough action to please an older audience. When I finished the book I wanted more, not because it was insufficient but because I wanted to return to this world and see what the characters could do next. This is probably one I would reread for the thrill of the games.
An exciting "trials" read that will please those who are not only gamers because it has great lessons of honor, friendship, respect, team play, family values, wanting to protect others, a sense of community, honesty, trust, defeating corruption, giving people choices, freedom and returning happiness to something that history turned into a death sentence: joy for playing with another without stakes.
February 23, 2025
I liked this book for its premise and interesting world building. It's a world where currency and status are tied to your ability to win games, based on the founding legend of the city: the prince challenged Lady Death to a game of life or death and won, saving the citizens from a plague in the process.
Of course, not every game is perfect, and not every game is fair, as our main character Pia Paro discovers shortly after she is old enough to participate in The Great Game. She must fight for survival and to save her loved ones and friends from a system that just might be rigged against her.
Although I did like the story, I found the pacing and character development lacking. This is a children's book, probably suitable for kids 8-13, so maybe I should have anticipated these issues. The story moves so quickly I found it jarring. Conflicts barely have time to begin before they're conveniently over. The final showdown begins a mere 20-30 pages before the end of the book, and I was disappointed by how fast everything was wrapped up. Along with this, we don't spend enough time getting to know the characters, especially Pia's team. Sure, we learn their motivations for playing The Great Game, but beyond that, they're not very fleshed out, so they lack personality.
I think this is an entertaining read with a good premise, but I personally wish it had more substance. However, I'd absolutely recommend this for younger readers.
Of course, not every game is perfect, and not every game is fair, as our main character Pia Paro discovers shortly after she is old enough to participate in The Great Game. She must fight for survival and to save her loved ones and friends from a system that just might be rigged against her.
Although I did like the story, I found the pacing and character development lacking. This is a children's book, probably suitable for kids 8-13, so maybe I should have anticipated these issues. The story moves so quickly I found it jarring. Conflicts barely have time to begin before they're conveniently over. The final showdown begins a mere 20-30 pages before the end of the book, and I was disappointed by how fast everything was wrapped up. Along with this, we don't spend enough time getting to know the characters, especially Pia's team. Sure, we learn their motivations for playing The Great Game, but beyond that, they're not very fleshed out, so they lack personality.
I think this is an entertaining read with a good premise, but I personally wish it had more substance. However, I'd absolutely recommend this for younger readers.
August 8, 2024
Literary Merit: 3/5 This novel tackled the question of moral codes and what is fair and while the argument was largely one sided, it was addressed in a way that was accessible to its audience and didn't feel like a soap box. While not particularly ground breaking it acts as a good catalyst to get kids thinking about these bigger problems. The main character was fully developed from the start with strengths and weaknesses that were consistent and clear as her character grew and changed. All side characters were one note and did not experience any change. The plot was fun and gripping and had a few surprises in-store for me. I would have enjoyed further exploration of the world.
Originality: 3/5 This dystopian really felt like the Hunger Games with less death, I think this is a result of the novel being so plot heavy and not spending enough time developing the setting to really set it apart from other dystopians.
Accuracy: 5/5 Honestly the consistency of the MC and the details of the plot really sold the novel to me.
Clarity: 4.5/5 The characters and plot were clear and consistent although the setting could have been further developed. I want to know about the Isles and other districts.
Total: 15.5/20
Age Range: KR ages 10-13, PW ages 10+, SLJ grades 3-7, BL grades 4-7
Originality: 3/5 This dystopian really felt like the Hunger Games with less death, I think this is a result of the novel being so plot heavy and not spending enough time developing the setting to really set it apart from other dystopians.
Accuracy: 5/5 Honestly the consistency of the MC and the details of the plot really sold the novel to me.
Clarity: 4.5/5 The characters and plot were clear and consistent although the setting could have been further developed. I want to know about the Isles and other districts.
Total: 15.5/20
Age Range: KR ages 10-13, PW ages 10+, SLJ grades 3-7, BL grades 4-7
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