“Hale: the Rise of the Griffins” by JK Noble

• 08/07/2023
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Hale: The Rise of the Griffins

JK Noble
Morgan James Fiction (2021)
ISBN: 978-1631955556
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Reader Views (07/2023)

“Hale: The Rise of the Griffins” by JK Noble is an exciting, dramatic YA novel fantasy fans will adore. Hale is sixteen and finds himself in the middle of the world of magic, after having escaped a kidnapping. His sister tried to protect him from this world, but he had no idea how unforgiving the Land of Griffins was. While there, he discovers he isn’t like other teens. He’s a griffin too, capable of awe-inspiring skills. Bayo is the leader of the Griffins, and he and Hale grow closer, but Hale has no idea of the nefarious plot Bayo has hatched for him. Will the truth of who they are come out?

This unique novel is actually multiple short stories folded into one, yet still related to one another. The rich world-building is quite evident as you will meet and enjoy various cultures and countries in this arena. Magic and a myriad of diverse characters come to life in this unique book. You will find yourself immersed in the lives of Hale, Bayo, Marcus, Felix, Greon, Elliona, Robin, Rioma, and Mary, and the worlds they live in, and will anxiously experience the unfolding of the plot.

There are universal themes that you can relate to on a personal level, like stressful family relations, discovering one’s purpose, coming of age, and acknowledging mistakes. This award-winning novel will make you want to read more from this author, and the good news is that there is more. If you look for depth of character and story, while exploring new worlds, especially the detailed world of magic, this book will more than satisfy.

This story is imaginative and clever, allowing you to become absorbed in the reading starting with the first pages of Hale and Carly’s time in the cellar, which ranges from horrifying to heartbreaking. The dialogue is fresh, and the writing is lyrical and intricate. Hale is a truly original, well-crafted main character. Also, Bayo is a thoroughly bad villain. If you like dynamic fantasy novels that aren’t afraid to go to the dark side at times, “Hale: The Rise of the Griffins” by JK Noble is a must-read.