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Jim Melvin
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Do You Believe in Monsters? (Dark Circles Trilogy Book 2) Kindle Edition

by Jim Melvin (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 49 ratings
See all formats and editions

" ... a promising series that’s sure to appeal to teen readers who feel like outsiders." --Kirkus Reviews

From the author of The Death Wizard Chronicles comes an award-winning adventure suitable for teens and adults.

Do You Believe in Monsters? is book 2 of Dark Circles, a fantasy trilogy for readers 13 and older. This is a fascinating coming of age series for fans of J.K. Rowling, Neil Gaiman, and Brandon Sanderson.

Book 1: Do You Believe in Magic? (May 25, 2023)
Book 2: Do You Believe in Monsters? (Oct. 23, 2023)
Book 3: Do You Believe in Miracles? (April 2024)

Book 2 synopsis:
When Charlie Magus enters a fantastical world hidden deep in the forest, his life is turned upside down. The timid 13-year-old transforms into a powerful wizard wielding formidable magic. In the real world, life goes on as usual. But in the fantasy world, a war is brewing that will dwarf all others. Charlie’s newfound powers stand between victory and defeat. But in which world does he truly belong? Dark Circles is an adventure of epic scope. Only those with a hero's heart will dare to stand at Charlie’s side as he battles an army of monsters led by an evil being of immense power.

~~~

"If the first book of this new series is any indication, you are in for a big treat and wild fantasy ride." —Dave Scheiber, nationally renowned journalist and author

"Melvin shows his literary mastery as he weaves elements of potential and transformation." —Ann Allen, The Charlotte Observer

"Transcends fiction and fantasy by exploring the struggles of those coming of age." —Chris Worthy, Upstate Parent magazine

"Be prepared for a full-blown launch into a fantasy realm loaded with magic, monsters, courageous acts, and a dash of sweet romance." —Chris Harold Stevenson, award-winning author of everything fantasy and paranormal

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  1. Book 2 of 3
    Dark Circles Trilogy
  2. Print length
    331 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publication date
    October 30, 2023
  5. Reading age
    13 - 18 years
  6. File size
    2.6 MB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
  10. See all details
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From the Publisher

'Dark Circles' receives 14 awards

Best Book Awards

Double Finalist

In Fantasy and Young Adult.

Global Book Award

Silver

In Young Adult Epic Fantasy.

Killer Nashville

Finalist

In Fantasy.

LitStar Book Awards

Gold

In Best Book Series.

Firebird awards

Golds and Silver

Gold in Fantasy. Gold in Coming of Age. Silver in Action and Adventure.

International Impact

Gold

In Fantasy.

Literary Titan

Three Golds

In Fantasy.

Bookfest

Gold and Silver

Gold in Action and Adventure. Silver in Fantasy Series.

Editorial Reviews

Review

PRAISE FOR BOOK 1 FROM KIRKUS REVIEWS

"Three friends and a magical dog become heroes in a strange land in Melvin's YA fantasy series opener.

After 13-year-old Charlie Magus' father walks out on him and his mom, they move from St. Petersburg, Florida, to Lowery,South Carolina, to live with his grandparents. Charlie's grandfather gives him a white dog named Blue who soon becomes his devoted guardian.

At school, the teen is often a target for bullies, but he finds kindred spirits in bullied classmates Zola Scyler and Virgil. He brings his new friends to see a magical waterfall that he discovered in the woods; after crawling through a tunnel behind it, they're transported to a magical place where Blue is the size of a horse, their classmate Garrick is a revered leader, and they face dangers that they never could have imagined.

They're in the land of Pacchann, which is currently embroiled in a brutal war against a being called the Niddukk and his minions. Charlie and his friends discover that they possess magical abilities that could make them saviors of Pacchann—or the targets of its enemies.

Overall, Melvin delivers a novel that's appealing and well-crafted. Charlie is a likable, relatable protagonist, and he quickly establishes an entertaining dynamic with Virgil and Zola. Blue is more than just an animal sidekick, as he seems to have a protective and wise character all his own.

The prose is accessible throughout while providing some dazzling descriptions: "Deep among the trees stood a black spire that towered hundreds of feet above the canopy. It was jagged at the top like a spiked crown—only the crown was on fire, and a ring of swirling smoke engulfed its pinnacle."

The magical world is entrancing, although it takes a while for the conflict that's causing the war to become clear. The Niddukk is also a rather nebulous, indistinct antagonist, but the thrilling battle scenes make up for these minor issues.

A delightful beginning to a promising series that's sure to appeal to teen readers who feel like outsiders." — Kirkus Reviews, October 2024


★★★★★ REVIEWS FOR BOOK 2

In Do You Believe in Monsters? Dark Circles book 2, Jim Melvin crafts a vivid continuation of his fantasy series, plunging readers into the lives of Charlie, Gord, Virgil, and Zola as they navigate the treacherous paths between their mundane world and the magical realm of Pacchann. The novel combines elements of fantasy and coming-of-age drama, exploring the characters' struggles against both mythical threats and personal demons. This second installment deepens the lore and heightens the stakes, making for a gripping read.

Melvin's writing excels in its character development. Gord's transformation from a mean bully to someone grappling with internal conflicts is particularly compelling. The early chapters, where Gord interacts with a mysterious ring of light, effectively set the stage for his character arc. The tension between his tough exterior and the vulnerabilities he slowly reveals is handled with a deft touch. I found Gord's moments of introspection and his complex relationship with his mother to be some of the most poignant parts of the book.

One particularly compelling scene near the end occurs when Gord confronts the devil who granted him new teeth. This moment is pivotal as it encapsulates Gord's internal struggle and transformation throughout the novel. After enduring a life marked by hardship and neglect, Gord is offered a sinister form of salvation by the devil—a magical solution that tempts him with more than just physical repair but also a potential escape from his harsh reality. The intensity of this scene is heightened by the moral dilemma it presents. Gord, who has been a character shaped by his environment's brutality and his own survival instincts, faces a critical choice. The devil's offer is not just about accepting supernatural help; it's about the price of this help and what it signifies about Gord's own values and future path. The dialogue here is charged with urgency and reveals the depth of Gord's desperation and his resilience.

The interplay between the real world and the fantastical land of Pacchann adds a rich layer of complexity to the narrative. This duality is a brilliant narrative device that mirrors the characters' internal struggles. The scenes in Pacchann are full of vivid descriptions and imaginative creatures, capturing the essence of a world teetering on the brink of war. Yet, the emotional resonance of their real-world experiences, like Virgil's strained relationship with his parents, grounds the story and makes their escapism to Pacchann feel both necessary and fraught with tension.

The book seamlessly transitions between the everyday struggles of Charlie, Gord, Virgil, and Zola and the enchanting elements of Pacchann, adding a dynamic and multifaceted layer to the story. The thrilling action sequences are particularly engaging and offer an exciting contrast to the more introspective moments. This blend of high-stakes drama and quieter, character-driven explorations creates a captivating narrative that keeps readers on their toes, making for a compelling and immersive experience.

Do You Believe in Monsters? Dark Circles book 2 is a fantastic read for teens and young adults who enjoy a mix of fantasy adventure and real-world drama. Fans of series like "Percy Jackson" or "The Chronicles of Narnia" will appreciate the blend of magical escapism and relatable character dilemmas.

— Literary Titan

~~~

Off to the races again!

This time, Charlie and his team are facing some dramatic showdowns, where the protags are just barely escaping certain doom. Charlie and pals are facing a plethora of monsters and frightening ghouls.

I was brought to the edge of my seat several times, mopping my forehead and letting out huge sighing gusts of air. "How in the hell did he get out of that mess?" I kept asking myself. But with all of this action and competition, Charlie is growing stronger by the day—I'm sure he's going to have to be ready for something monumental, something beyond his scope of understanding. He's also got the real world and fantasy world tugging at him at the same time.

Something huge is about to happen. I know it's coming, and I'll be ready for it. C'mon, book 3!

— Chris Harold Stevenson, award-winning author of everything fantasy and paranormal

~~~


Thoroughly enjoyed my sneak peek of this one! Note that this is book two in the series. Don't start here or you won't know what in the world is going on.

As with book one, I think this can start with younger readers. Your late elementary kiddos who love fantasy and monsters and such will latch on to this series right away.

Give kids engaging, high interest stories like this and watch them soar!

— Chris Worthy, Upstate Parent magazine

~~~

In Do You Believe in Monsters?, Jim Melvin takes readers on an enchanting ride. The story follows the transformation of Charlie Magus, a timid 13-year-old who stumbles upon a fantastical world concealed deep within the forest. Little does he know that this discovery will turn his life upside-down and thrust him into a realm of magic, monsters, and an impending war of epic proportions.

As Charlie evolves from a shy adolescent into a formidable wizard with extraordinary powers, the lines between reality and fantasy blur. While Charlie navigates the challenges of the real world, a war of monumental scale brews in the fantasy realm. Charlie's newfound magical abilities become the linchpin between victory and defeat in a conflict led by an evil being of immense power.

The narrative unfolds with an epic scope, weaving together elements of adventure, magic, and heroism. Melvin skillfully crafts a tale that captivates readers, urging them to stand at Charlie's side as he faces an army of monsters in a battle that transcends imagination. The stakes are high, and only those with a hero's heart will dare to accompany Charlie on this perilous journey.

What makes Do You Believe in Monsters? truly engaging is Melvin's ability to delve into the lives of not only the protagonist but also the side characters. Readers are treated to a deeper understanding of the characters that populate Charlie's world, with answers to questions that may not have even crossed their minds. The author expertly paces the narrative, keeping the tension taut and the reader hooked from start to finish. I, for one, cannot wait for "Do You Believe in Miracles," the third book in this enthralling trilogy.

— Pratibha Malav, award-winning author, editor, and reviewer

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CL46P8JZ
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Green Bird Publishing; 1st edition (October 30, 2023)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 30, 2023
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2.6 MB
  • Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 331 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 49 ratings

About the author

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Jim Melvin

Jim Melvin

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Best Book Awards double finalist ("Do You Believe in Magic?")

Silver Award Winner in the Global Book Awards ("Do You Believe in Magic?")

Winner of 14 international awards ("Dark Circles" trilogy)

Book 1 is Recommended by Kirkus Reviews: “A delightful beginning to a promising series that’s sure to appeal to teen readers who feel like outsiders.”

~~~

Jim grew up on the shores of western Florida where he spent much of his childhood swimming in shark-infested waters long before the movie "Jaws" put a scare into everyone. At the time, he probably was too skinny to attract a bull shark's attention. About ten other boys Jim's age lived on his same street, and they hung out morning, noon and night playing the usual sports that young boys love — football, baseball, "kill the carrier," etc. — but as a group they also played fantastical games that contained magic, monsters and superheroes. It was in this setting that Jim's imagination was born and nurtured.

Jim's latest book is a memoir titled "The Adventures of a Florida Boy." It’s a short and sweet book about his childhood growing up on Tampa Bay, Florida, that won't challenge your beliefs or try to change your opinions. Rather, Jim hopes it will make you laugh and put a warm feeling in your stomach. He also hopes it revives memories of your own childhood wherever and whenever you grew up. If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted read that will lift your spirits, "The Adventures of a Florida Boy" fits the bill.

Jim's latest novels are books 1-3 of a teen fantasy adventure trilogy titled "Dark Circles," which is about a group of kids who are transported to a magical land where it can be deadly to sleep. Book 1 titled "Do You Believe in Magic?" is now available on Amazon and officially launched on May 25, 2023. Book 2 titled "Do You Believe in Monsters?" debuted on Oct. 30, 2023. Book 3 titled "Do You Believe in Miracles?" debuted April 21, 2024. The "Dark Circles" trilogy is appropriate for ages 13 and older. This is a great coming-of-age series for fans of C.S. Lewis, J.K. Rowling, Neil Gaiman, and Brandon Sanderson.

Jim is the author of "The Death Wizard Chronicles," an action-packed, six-book epic fantasy for mature readers that was published by Bell Bridge Books. This series is appropriate for ages 18 and older. New editions of this series will debut in 2025.

Jim is also the lead writer and editor for the nonfiction book "Eclipse Over Clemson: The day Tigertown will never forget," which chronicled the Aug. 21, 2017, total solar eclipse that passed over Clemson University. The on-campus event which Jim coordinated was a once-in-a-lifetime experience attended by more than 50,000 people.

Jim is the author of nine award-winning novels, three novelettes, and thousands of magazine and news articles. He now lives in a valley surrounded by mountains in the Southern Appalachians. He was previously an award-winning journalist at several large newspapers and a communications director at Clemson University.

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
49 global ratings

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Top reviews from the United States

  • Bella
    5.0 out of 5 stars Very very exciting!
    Reviewed in the United States on December 3, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This sequel is very thrilling and I could not put it down! I cannot wait to read the next sequel. This book was a cliff hanger and I am very interested in finding out what happens next. Enjoy!
    One person found this helpful
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  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars The true heroes fight when they are afraid
    Reviewed in the United States on July 22, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I feel like my title says it all. Everyone is scared but still fighting from beginning to end. That being said, the only character to feel really bad about is Gord.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Donald Polk
    5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating, Imaginative world, Mighty foes!
    Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Captivating read of a mystical parallel land with magical warriors and evil monsters. Difficult to put down a definite page turner!
    Rated 9-13 but I am an adult and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Cory Dodgens
    5.0 out of 5 stars Action-packed, fast paced sequel
    Reviewed in the United States on November 14, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    A great second book in a fantastic series! Things are heating up for Charlie and his friends, and they are rising to the challenge! This sequel has lots of action, fast-paced dialogue, and great new monsters. Jim Melvin has done a wonderful job of honing a story with great momentum and setting up cliffhangers for what is sure to be a fantastic conclusion in book 3!
    One person found this helpful
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  • James Ron
    5.0 out of 5 stars It's terrific!
    Reviewed in the United States on April 14, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Get it. You'll be glad you did. Great for kids of all ages!
    One person found this helpful
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  • Mike R
    3.0 out of 5 stars A different telling of stories past
    Reviewed in the United States on November 9, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Ok after the first book I wanted to know what's next ( the best part of the story line) but the Star Wars (ch3) parallel and OMG the Harry Potter/ Voldemort back and forth .... It's a good read, a slightly draggy read but good
    One person found this helpful
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  • Heidi Skinner
    5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome read!
    Reviewed in the United States on June 19, 2024
    Wow! Just wow! Love this second book in the series! Some mysteries are explained and Charlie and Garrick and Virgil and Zola just keep getting better as they learn more about their powers. And their enemy...
    One person found this helpful
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  • A.A. Allen
    5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recommended!
    Reviewed in the United States on February 11, 2024
    I was captivated by the first book in the Dark Circles trilogy, and I’m happy to report that the next book is even better! The adventures of Charlie and his middle school comrades continue in Do You Believe in Monster? as they once again enter the hidden portal to a magical world. They bring with them friendship, love and courage, and they need it all to battle the dangers they face. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series to see how the story comes out!
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Books are my favourite human beings!
    5.0 out of 5 stars Loved reading every bit of it
    Reviewed in India on November 17, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    A few days ago only I read the first part ‘Do You Believe in Magic’ and loved every bit of it. Through this second part “Do You Believe in Monsters” in the Dark Circles series, Jim Melvin takes readers on an enchanting ride. The story follows the transformation of Charlie Magus, a timid 13-year-old, who stumbles upon a fantastical world concealed deep within the forest. Little does he know that this discovery will turn his life upside down and thrust him into a realm of magic, monsters, and an impending war of epic proportions.

    As Charlie evolves from a shy adolescent into a formidable wizard with extraordinary powers, the lines between reality and fantasy blur. While Charlie navigates the challenges of the real world, a war of monumental scale brews in the fantasy realm. His newfound magical abilities become the linchpin between victory and defeat in a conflict led by an evil being of immense power.

    The narrative unfolds with an epic scope, weaving together elements of adventure, magic, and heroism. Melvin skillfully crafts a tale that captivates readers, urging them to stand at Charlie's side as he faces an army of monsters in a battle that transcends imagination. The stakes are high, and only those with a hero's heart will dare to accompany Charlie on this perilous journey.

    What makes this part truly engaging is Melvin's ability to delve into the lives of not only the protagonist but also the side characters. Readers are treated to a deeper understanding of the characters that populate Charlie's world, with answers to questions that may not have even crossed their minds. The author expertly paces the narrative, keeping the tension taut and the reader hooked from start to finish. I, for one, cannot wait for "Do You Believe in Miracles," the promised third book in this enthralling trilogy.
    Report

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