Matthew Runals’ *Lapidus* is an exciting and gripping tale of survival, magic, and unexpected heroism, centered on 13-year-old Joey as he’s thrust into a world far beyond his comprehension. Set against the backdrop of an impending war, Joey’s story begins with desperation—his mother, struggling to feed him, sends him to Lapidius, a place where he won’t starve. But Lapidius turns out to be much more than a refuge. It’s a prestigious military institute, training children for battle in a war filled with magical and monstrous threats.

Runals does an exceptional job at building a vivid and mysterious world. Lapidius itself is an institution full of intrigue, and the atmosphere of the school immediately gives off a sense of foreboding. Joey quickly learns that the training is no ordinary boot camp. His journey from being a malnourished boy to a student training for something far more dangerous highlights the intense physical and mental transformation the children undergo. What makes Lapidius truly fascinating, however, is the supernatural layer beneath the military drills—this isn’t just a war between humans, but a larger conflict involving magical forces, malevolent creatures, and perhaps even darker conspiracies.

The novel deftly balances elements of action and suspense with themes of loyalty, bravery, and self-discovery. Joey is a relatable and compelling protagonist. His vulnerability, combined with a deep well of inner strength, makes his arc from struggling to survive to becoming a young soldier particularly powerful. His friendships with other students, as they all come to terms with the reality of their situation, add emotional depth to the story.

Runals’ writing is sharp, fast-paced, and brimming with tension. As the children train for war, the narrative steadily reveals the larger stakes involved in their fight, keeping readers hooked. At the same time, the world-building is immersive, with hints of ancient magic and unseen malevolence that suggest there’s much more to the battle Joey is preparing for than meets the eye.

What makes *Lapidus* stand out is its ability to blend a coming-of-age narrative with elements of fantasy and military action. It’s not just a story about young recruits learning how to fight but a reflection on what it means to face fear, to find purpose, and to understand the cost of war in a world that seems to have far more at stake than Joey ever imagined.

Overall, *Lapidus* is a thrilling adventure filled with suspense, mystery, and heart. Readers who enjoy tales of magical warfare, military schools, and underdog heroes will find themselves swept up in this engaging and imaginative story. Matthew Runals has crafted a novel that leaves you eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for Joey and his fellow students at Lapidius.