In the land of dreams, anything can happen; epic battles, adventure and even humor. In the case of D-Nine a fantasy root is layered inside a unique story arch and concept.

Dr. James has always enjoyed fantasy books because he had been reading them ever since he was a little boy. What he doesn't know, however, is that he is about to embark on a fantasy quest that he will never forget. James had been suffering from severe migraine attacks, or so he thought. During an episode of syncope, he is brought into the fantasy world of Edonia where he is in unfamiliar territory, in more ways than one. He is in a new land that he has never seen before, in a different time period, he has a different hairstyle and color, and he has an unfamiliar face. As it turns out, he has transformed into a she, an assassin magnet, where he must acquire his skills that he learned in the 21st century to save a land from political scandal and an even bigger conflict in the heart of everyone’s worse imagination.

The split between the two worlds is a smooth reboot of old concepts, including the complications of gender identity and responsibilities of the human spirit. Alternating chapters spread a clear view of the situations in both worlds and the conflicts presented. The transition from the real world to Edonia holds the reader’s attention with charismatic dialogue, powerful characters, and cutting edge scenes that spill action and adventure, feeding all styles of hunger in an easily accessible journey that anyone will be able to pick up and enjoy, even those who don't like fantasy.

Readers will revel in the lush descriptions of this fantasyland, filled with wondrous memories and secrets. The often and clear action keeps the plot soaring, emphasized by the creation of memorable characters and chapters filled with layers of storytelling that will grip readers long after the last page is turned.

Packed with rich verbs to emphasize the adrenaline filled action, humorous quips that also spread awareness about gender acceptance and identity, and a rich plot that races to new heights with every chapter, D Nine is a fantasy novel for long time fantasy fans looking to hoard a new kind of story as well as newcomers looking to dip their daggers into a new vat of mystery, laughter, and adventure. This accessible, rich, and revealing blast of action clashes action with a unique concept to craft a book that rings with resonance no matter how you polish your dagger.

By Robert Kingett

Editor’s note: is blind, this book was converted to Braille to be read.

Reviewed by Melinda Hills for Readers' Favorite

Sarabeth, the princess of the realm, is living as an impostor with the thoughts and memories of Dr. James Khoo, who is suffering from extreme headaches. As the dual life of Jamie, living as Sarabeth, and James continues, the question is – which one is real? In D-Nine: Protectors of the Crown by Magus Tor, Sarabeth has some incredible skills that save her life and enable her to join the secret organization pledged to save the Queen. James learns that he has a brain tumor and trusts the skills of his friends and fellow doctors to end the pain he has endured. Moving back and forth between identities leaves Sarabeth/James wondering how life will go on, and the question is answered by an old fortune teller at the carnival. The choice is up to Sarabeth/James, but there are so many factors to consider. Which world will win with the continued presence of Sarabeth/James? 

D-Nine: Protectors of the Crown by Magus Tor is a great story fusing the life of Dr. James Khoo and Princess Sarabeth of a far-away realm. Living as both people, Sarabeth/James struggles to understand what is happening, only to find out there has to be a choice – only one of them can survive. The plot and action are captivating and the reader is given the option to choose between two different endings, either of which is realistic and has pros and cons. This is a long enough story to fully get into the action, but short enough to hold the attention of even a reluctant reader and it is certainly interesting for any reader. A great book for young adult readers!