Lapidius is the debut novel by Matthew Runals, and the first in A Nation Found series. It tells the story of young cadets sent to Lapidius, a military school that teaches the youth military discipline & tactics to face the war facing them. It is a young adult dystopian novel with elements of fantasy. We follow a group of friends as they navigate their way through the classes, learning about friendship, cooperation, bravery, magic, intrigue, and hope. There is great character and world-building, which starts the novel off slow but builds into a faster pace. There is a satisfactory conclusion with room for later novels.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lucinda Morton-Phillipshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLucinda Morton-Phillips2024-09-28 19:27:242024-10-01 09:02:49Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Lucinda Morton-Phillips
Joey is a young boy of thirteen who lives at home with his mother and sisters, it isn’t an easy life, but it is the one he has been given, but fortunately he has good friends, that is until one day he is sent off by his mother for a better life at Lapidius. Lapidius is a school, but other than that, Joey has no idea of what to expect when he gets there, but the fact that his friends are going with him helps the transition.
After a few days in the wagon travelling to Lapidius, Joey is anxious to get out and see where he is and what his future will look like and at first glance, all he can see is the majesty of the building and the beautiful smells coming from a nearby group of buildings, however, he soon realises that is this is no ordinary school, it is a military one as he sees the officers and cadets who are lining the pathway to the school who are intimidating to the highest degree, not to mention the barracks where he will be staying and the introductory processing he experiences.
This is where anything commonplace disappears and Joey soon discovers that nothing is what it seems and what can only describe as being magic is being used and this terrifies him, especially when horns blare out in the middle of their first night and a cry of “Monsters” goes up in the halls. After everything has settled down and sleep claims him, Joey is awoken early for inspection and his first day of drills, exercise, lessons and chores and his routine for the next few weeks until he discovers which house he will be placed into.
He quickly realises that what he has been taught in school before was seriously lacking and his new lessons are revealing information which he never dreamed could be possible and when he realises that it is the truth, his life changes forever, but will he be able to survive this new world and the monsters within it, or will he fall at the first hurdle? This is a great beginning to an adventure series full of military training and dangerous escapades which will keep you wanting to know what happens next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2024-09-27 13:59:372024-10-01 08:26:20Lapidius (A Nation Found Book 1) by Matthew Runals – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00joanne ellishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngjoanne ellis2024-09-27 11:35:382024-10-01 08:38:25Lapidius, A Nation Found Series, Matthew Runals, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, YA, Young Adult, Dystopian by Joanne Ellis
This is a YA dystopian story that has the same vibes as Hunger Games, Maze Runner, Divergent, and Harry Potter. It’s a coming of age story of four friends that are sent to a mysterious military school and discover magic, monsters, friendship, and a sense of purpose in the world. The characters are wonderfully written and it’s has a lot of details that paint a vivid picture. It was slow going at first but it made up for it by the end as its a great story. As this is the first book in A Nation Found series I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jessica Godwinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJessica Godwin2024-09-26 22:30:412024-10-01 08:30:20Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Jessica Godwin
Lapidius is the first book in the Nation Found series. It follows a group of 4 young boys/teens as they are sent away to a military esq setting in a castle. It is a little slow in the beginning, lots of detail and good world building. Sort of dystopian meets Hunger Games meets fantasy fiction. Good all around.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00katherine mellonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngkatherine mellon2024-09-26 19:53:282024-10-01 08:09:05Lapidius by Matthew Runals
This book had a lot of detail whether it was the characters thoughts and feelings or the locations and people around them. It was a great story that was engaging. The relationships between the characters and the setting were fun and interesting. It is a young adult dystopian story so would be good for young readers. I really liked that the author included a little tidbit at the beginning for each character with a description of them and how they fit into it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rose McCaskeyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRose McCaskey2024-09-26 18:23:522024-10-01 08:08:40Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Rose McCaskey
This was a new author to me so I didn’t know what to expect, but I enjoy dystopian type stories so I gave it a shot. I’m glad I did. You can tell this author put a lot of effort into his writing and knowledge. It’s basically a children’s military school with a fantasy twist. I was drawn in from tbr beginning and will be watching for a second book! I recommend this book for really any age group.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jamie Truexhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJamie Truex2024-09-26 15:35:212024-10-01 08:08:10Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Jamie Truex
Lapidius is book one in the A Nation Found series by Matthew Runals. An enchanting combination of a military school and monsters. I adored this idea, and it reminded me of Enders Game which I also absolutely loved. This is intended as a YA dystopian fiction but this does also have some of the heavier themes that come with war. This was an amazing read, and a new author to me. I ate this book right up, and I heavily look forward to reading what’s next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Finn Cunninghamhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFinn Cunningham2024-09-26 12:16:552024-10-01 07:41:15Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Finn Cunningham
This is the first book in A Nation Found Series and the first book I have read by this author. This is a YA adult fantasy adventure which has so much happening that it will keep you on the edge of your seat. I wasn’t too sure what to expect going into this book however I was not disappointed. The author opens us up to a world where it seems all hope is lost until the youth are given something to fight for. The characters is the book are well written and I loved how the boys had banter between themselves just as you know that boys do in real life. Every aspect of this book was well thoughtout out and the characters and surroundings were brought to life.
Joey and his friends and their family’s are struggling to survive as times are hard and their town is losing all hope. To save their son’s, Joey and his friends are sent to Lapidius. Lapidius is a school where the boys will be educated and feed well. However things aren’t all that they seem and when they arrive the boys realise the Lapidius is more of a training camp that a school and they are being trained to fight a war that gets closer by the day. Add to this all the mystery that surrounds Lapidius, the monsters and the adventures that Joey and his friends find themselves on and this becomes one book that you will not be able to put down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2024-09-26 11:42:332024-10-01 07:40:45Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Kerry Carr
Lapidus By Matthew Runals is a good book for dystopian readers it also has action scenes. It takes place around war and shows how the world can be tragic. The school has many secrets and some fantasy scenes while it teaches them how they are fighting for their country. The kids also have to fight monsters, and they are in a war. This book is a great read for children and adults. It is also for people who like dystopian and fantasy stories. Stephen Rymer 09/2024
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephen Rymerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephen Rymer2024-09-25 21:11:542024-10-01 07:37:39Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Stephen Rymer
Lapidius is the first book in the A Nation Found series. It’s a children’s series with a magic boarding school and a big tournament-type thing that will appeal to fans of similar series. The dystopian setting is thought-provoking and creates situations where the children are in danger.
There’s a fun group of characters at the centre of this story. As they learn to cope with the rigorous military training and intense social dynamics at Lapidius their strengths, weaknesses and priorities are highlighted. I like that there are a lot of times we see the kids helping each other out!
I would recommend this more for teen/YA readers. Children who are confident readers and are comfortable reading more violent scenes would also enjoy it, and I think it could be a fun book to read together as there is plenty to discuss around the ethics and decisions of different characters.
This book gets four stars from me. I enjoyed the excitement and adventure, and there’s plenty of worldbuilding that has gone into it. I look forward to reading more of the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Francis O'Sullivanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFrancis O'Sullivan2024-09-25 20:19:112024-10-01 07:44:04Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Francis O’Sullivan
This is a chunky book. At over 400 pages, it’s defintely on the larger size to tackle. However, it needed to be. There was so much detail and world building in this story. There was just so much altogether. You get sucked into a different time and place. It is exactly what you want from a book. This book is geared towards kids, but more so the teenage years. (Depending on the child) Though this is a heavy book with a TON of detail, it is easy to read. The main character finds himself in what is to be like a military school. He soon has a group of friends who are all training essentially for a game. This will get them ready for the war that is brewing around them. These friends soon discover that there are monsters and magic within.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Brehanthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Brehant2024-09-25 18:19:262024-10-01 07:43:23Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Crystal Brehant
Lapidius (A Nation Found Book 1) is a YA Dystopian Fiction full of mystical creatures and monsters all around. While this is intended as a YA, there is some violence and heavier content that comes with a military/war setting, and some parents may not be comfortable with this. The story is a coming of age, incorporating family and friendship bonds, building trust, and young teens finding themselves in a harsh world. When the war comes too close to home, Joey’s mother sends him away to a military school, Lapidius, to keep him safe and to ensure he has food and shelter. Lapidius is not just your every day run of the mill school though, it is a school to hone and perfect skills in a magical world. The kids must learn to trust each other, and themselves, in order to survive. This is a bit on par with Hunger Games or Maze Runner, but also unique and completely different. The setting and characters are believable and easy to follow, with plenty of action. I liked that the ending left things open for more to follow and things can go in so many different directions, so I am interested to see what the next book brings.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Swindlehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Swindle2024-09-25 15:27:042024-10-01 07:42:49Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Amanda Swindle
“Lapidius” by Matthew Runals offers a thought-provoking narrative set in a declining nation once vibrant with culture and hope. The novel explores the consequences of a society that has lost its way, where greed and numbness have replaced inspiration and purpose. Runals’ portrayal of Novum Albion reflects a deeper commentary on the fragility of societal values and the erosion of identity. Lapidius, a martial institute for children, emerges as a beacon of structure and purpose amid the chaos. Through the experiences of the youth at the school, the story delves into themes of discipline, identity, and the search for meaning in a compromised world. Runals captures the emotional and philosophical struggles of a generation trying to find their place, making this a compelling read for those interested in dystopian themes intertwined with personal growth.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Trishahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTrisha2024-09-25 15:13:302024-10-01 07:42:42Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Trisha Cargile
4 Stars Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals
Lapidius is the first book in the A Nation Found Series and is a YA/ Fantasy/Dystopian read that will have you turning the pages till the end. I’m going to be honest I wasn’t sure going in what to expect as this is a new author to me. I had a really hard time getting into the story until several chapters in and by then I was forcing myself to keep going. I’m thinking I’m gonna revist this book at another time see if my opinion changes. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and felt like it was all over the place. I will recommend reading this book if you are into these types of genres. I do look forward to reading more from this Author and I hope this was just a mood .
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2024-09-25 06:44:582024-10-01 07:41:38Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
I loved this book! It’s the first book of the series. The characters in this book are phenomenal. Novum Albion used to be a land that held such greatness and now it is basically a land of the forgotten. Lapidius is a military school for kids. It has this mystery to it. I cannot wait for the next one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amelia Stansellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmelia Stansell2024-09-24 19:22:562024-10-01 07:34:47Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Amelia Stansell
This is the first book in A Nation Found series as well as the first book I have read by this author. I was completely engrossed in it within the first couple of pages and didn’t put it down until I finished! I may have skipped a day full of chores, but I’m okay with that decision because this book was simply incredible. The characters are well-crafted and even secondary characters are given plenty of backstories and depth. The pacing is well-executed and although I am quite a bit over the target audience age, I fell in love with it. This is a gripping tale that blends adventure, magic, and the harsh realities of war. If you enjoy the Hunger Games and Harry Potter kind of vibes, you will likely jump for joy when reading this book. Even if it may be out of your comfort zone, I implore you to give it a go!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2024-09-24 19:08:302024-10-01 07:33:59Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Shannen Kern
Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals. This is my first book by this author but it won’t be my last. I absolutely loved it and its a young adult read. Its the story of 4 boys as they head to a military academy for training. Their parents are at their wits end because of poverty and not being able to provide for their families so Lapidius is their only option. Lapidius is a military academy for training in a war. There is also some extra training thrown in with some magic and dystopian factions thrown in. Friendships are formed between Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas and they have build bonds that will never be broken. This book is full of adventure, danger, famine and war but its also full of love and friendship. A great read for the older kids in your life!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2024-09-24 18:36:382024-09-24 19:22:02Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Tausha Treadway
Lapidius follows 4 friends through their time at Military school. Scrimmage matches with a paralysing powder, that also causes pain and eternal pain without the antidote. Each cadets receives powers from a magical cave, as well.
A corrupt officer that abuses his power and instills fear into his cadets, eventually gets caught and banned from the school and turns to the enemy to seek revenge.
Corrupt government steals the monuments from towns to prevent learning for the townspeople of their own history, and their protection from the monsters lurking in the woods, but with it they also start to lose their memories. The fate of nation lies in the hands of the cadets that range from 12-16.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Felicia Belcherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFelicia Belcher2024-09-24 18:09:502024-10-01 07:33:07Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Felicia Belcher
What a world the author has created in this first book of A Nation Found series! In this dystopian novel, Novum Albion is nation facing famine and ruin due to greed and inflation. Hoping for a better future for their kids some parents are choosing to send their children to a military camp, Lapidius. Joey, Kyle, Brian, and Lucas are scared and unsure of what’s to come. What follows is a story of friendship, magic, adventure, and most of all unity.
Gosh, I truly enjoyed this book. Other reviews have compared it to Harry Potter and I have to agree. The author has built a wonderful world and an amazing cast of characters. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alicia Furlanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlicia Furlan2024-09-24 14:59:162024-10-01 07:32:15Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Alicia Furlan
Matthew Runals’ Lapidius is an extraordinary tale that weaves together complex themes of despair, redemption, and the power of unity. Set against the backdrop of Novum Albion, a nation once rich in culture and ideals, the story explores the lives of those abandoned by society, where greed and ignorance have taken root.
The Lapidius institute becomes a beacon of hope for children lost in a compromised nation. Through vivid storytelling, Runals paints a world where strangers forge bonds stronger than blood, where monsters symbolize the inner and outer battles we all face, and where even the most broken can find purpose. The characters’ journeys—from betrayal and hardship to hope and newfound family—are beautifully crafted, making this a must-read for fans of epic tales with heart.
If you’re looking for a deeply emotional and action-packed story of growth, survival, and finding one’s place in the world, Lapidius will leave you spellbound.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenique Bornmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenique Bornman2024-09-23 10:17:132024-10-01 07:46:10Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Jenique Bornman
Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas head to a military academy which other kids have been sent to. Nervous to see what the academy is all about, they find it is nothing like they imagined. Trained to be an asset for a war that is coming, they will be put through a grueling change in their life that has Joey concerned about his mom. What will happen when the threat gets closer?
I thought this was written beautifully, very visual in the writing. I could imagine this world, the people and the magical moments that implode on the pages. I definitely will be reading more, very curious to what happens next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emily Heislerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmily Heisler2024-09-21 22:30:052024-10-01 07:49:14Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Emily H
This book takes you to the country of Novum Albion, where the school of Lapidius is located. You join a group of new cadets arriving for their first year at the prestigious school. Upon starting training and classes, cadets soon realize the education they received at home was very different. While discovering the truth of their countries past, the cadets soon learn “The Game” played at school could soon turn real, as The Embers emerge to try and change the government and country. The story told in multiple POV’s allows you to get to know each character better, especially as there is a lot of world building.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jessica Mefferdhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJessica Mefferd2024-09-18 13:08:542024-10-01 08:01:21Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Jessica Mefferd
Reading this book is not what I expected. It turned out to be very well written and does provide different points of view from all the main characters. I do love how there is humor intertwined with the serious stuff going on to keep it a little light hearted at times. Overall, it’s a very good read especially when you need to get away from reality for a while.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kristin Boutellehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKristin Boutelle2024-09-16 17:16:052024-10-01 07:14:40Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Kristin Boutelle
It’s easy to become caught up in this YA tale as Runals paints a vividly rich narrative of a life at military school called Lapidius and those of the students. His passion shines through his words. At times I felt the story had a few repetitions and was sometimes a bit wordy, but I enjoyed this tale non the less. This intriguing tale has a bit of everything from a dystopian world with fantasy, sci fi to a touch of horror with a fast-moving plot. Lapidius takes readers on an epic journey through a magical world filled with unique cultures, creatures and characters. A world where survival is the name of the game where battles, greed, danger, monsters and adventure become one in the fight. I watched with keen interest as the children of the future learned, developed and & grew in strength, bravery and came together with conviction, a far cry from their humble beginnings. Compelling characters Kyle, Joey, Brian, and Lucas learn to fight for what is theirs and the bond that surrounds them. I enjoyed this Young Adult book. I’m 62 and a woman and it kept me entertained and reading to the end. It’s a great tale for those who enjoy battles and adventure.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-09-12 19:34:522024-10-01 07:00:26Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is a well written and exciting story that had me hooked almost immediately. My interest was piqued even reading the description of this book. I picked it up based on the cover, and the description was not at all what I was expecting. Which I always find exciting! The author did a great job of pulling you straight into the story. I connected with the characters instantly was found myself being swept along on their adventure. The premise of the book was really interesting. The nature of Lapidius was great and the combination of the characters all seemed to fit well. This was a surprising book but a really enjoyable one!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2024-09-12 14:41:362024-09-24 20:14:37Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Kerry Baker
“Story lovers and justice seekers, I present a tale of Lapidius, a school nestled in the valleys and forests of the land of Novum Albion. Once filled with mystery, adventure, and knowledge, Novum Albion was now a sad place of former greatness and forgotten dreams that no longer held the position of power it once had in the world. As its people settled for what they were told they could accomplish, hope and dreams became vacant in Novum Albion. At one time, the country had been the world’s melting pot, where cultures, intellect, ideas, and even freedom defined the young nation. Yet, many no longer had the hope that once defined Novum Albion. Sadly, inspiration and confidence drained from the land. Hope became nothing more than feeble happiness, and happiness turned to selfish desires. Selfish desires turned into greed, and greed turned into numbness to life. Many citizens of Novum Albion were trapped in their own minds, yet they were still filled with pride, though they accomplished nothing. Worth of life was held relative, and the meaning of words like honor, morals, and ethics were seldom taught. Even truth was held passively. As the young of the land grew ignorant of their identity and past, the very fiber of the home started to unwind, and uncertainty and ignorance in every aspect of life began to grow. Lapidius was still a mysterious place, considering it was a military school for children. It was not a school built to train children for war but designed to teach military discipline. Children of all ages would leave their siblings and parents behind and find mysteries upon mysteries at Lapidius, which they would eventually call home. Yes, though it would be hard for some to think a school could be home for its students, it was just that for many. And the most challenging and formative experience Lapidius had to offer was The Game. The Game was what made Lapidius unique…”
Lapidius is the first book in A Nation Found series by Matt Runals. This is a fabulous YA dystopian adventure story with a coming of age/journey of discovery element, mystery, action, politics, agendas, challenges, high stakes, family/friendship, finding purpose, magic, monsters, courage/bravery, survival, war/battles, intrigue, fantasy, emotion, humour, morality/honour, betrayal, and hope. I set off on the adventure and found myself engrossed right from the get-go- joining Joey, Kyle, Brian, and Lucas through all the highs and lows of Lapidius- a military school which will bring challenges and experiences that none of them could have predicted. The characters were really well-developed individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. They were easy to like and invest in. I loved watching them develop and grow over the course of the story. The story is quite detailed and descriptive, which made it easy to ‘visualise’ the scenes, the world, and all the developments as they unfolded. This gave me all the Divergent/Hunger Games/ The Maze Runner/ Harry Potter-esque vibes- but with its own unique identity. The story finishes leaving room for more to come – so I look forward to seeing where we go from here. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-09-09 23:47:162024-09-24 19:44:09Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series Book #1) by Matthew Runals – Review by Angela Hayes
I was quite interested in checking this story out, it had so many intriguing elements, the war, the military school for children, and magic and monsters. The author did a great job of creating well written characters that we get to see grow and mature throughout the story. The vivid and creative descriptions make you feel like you are right there with Joey and his friends Kyle, Brian, and Lucas as they begin their training and learn more about their new home. I greatly enjoyed the military strategies as as well the political pieces in the story, the author created a world that feels very realistic, while also full of magic and monsters. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Haller-Dorishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Haller-Doris2024-09-08 19:39:412024-09-27 13:21:23Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris
I LOVED this story. Getting to discover a new author to me and reading a fantastic story along the way makes me so happy. This is a young adult, dystopian story with adventure, hope, friendships, and magic. Having a bond of friendship between the four of Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas and fighting for what is right…this is a fantastic story and I highly encourage anyone to give this book a chance.
When families have to make a decision believing it is for the better because of it is hard to feed everyone in the family, Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas are sent to Lapidius. Learning there is more to venture….the mystery is only beginning….
This book gave me a roller coaster of emotions….which I love about a great story. The author did a fantastic job on details that really brought this story to life.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2024-09-08 18:27:532024-09-27 13:20:12Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
Is this story an allegory? A nation that has seen various wars over several decades. Starving families that are desperate to save their children. A military school stands in the gap, offering hope. Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds learn to find their inner strength. Well, not learn to find, so much as they are taught to find this resilience
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alison Risherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlison Risher2024-09-08 07:10:492024-09-27 13:24:24Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Alison Risher
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