Bravery, Self-discovery, and Friendship Shine in Everbright by Craig Phillips

Mikayla Young
Nov 11
9 min read

Welcome to an enchanting journey through the pages of "Everbright," the debut novel by Craig Phillips. Set in a rich fantasy world filled with adventure, magic, and self-discovery, this captivating tale introduces us to Tiernan, a young half-halfling servant with dreams that stretch far beyond his humble beginnings. As he embarks on a quest to forge his own identity amidst the chaos unleashed by a primordial evil, readers are invited to explore themes of bravery, friendship, and the pursuit of one's destiny. In this post, we will explore the book's essential details, present a comprehensive summary, share our thoughts and rating, and provide engaging discussion questions and activities for readers. Additionally, there will be a brief interview with the author about his inspiration for the book and more. Join us as we uncover the layers of this remarkable story and the journey of its unforgettable protagonist.

Book Information

Title: Everbright
Author: Craig Phillips
Series: Book 1 in the Everbright Series
Publisher: Independently Published
Publication Date: October 21, 2025
Genre: Fantasy, Action + Adventure
Age Category: Middle Grade, 12+
Format: Novel
Format Read in: E-book - PDF
Reading Challenges: Middle Grade Series, Debut Middle Grade, Indie Book
Many thanks to author Craig Phillips for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and reflect my personal reading experience with the book.

Book Synopsis

In a world where destiny is often dictated by birthright, young Tiernan, a fatherless half-halfling servant, yearns for a life beyond the confines of his humble station. With dreams of adventure ignited by tales of a legendary master hunter and a captivating musician, he sets forth on a transformative journey of apprenticeship. As he hones his skills with the yuke and the crossbow, Tiernan begins to carve out his own identity, one filled with promise and potential. However, the tranquility of his aspirations is shattered when a primordial evil known as the Vorlox emerges from the depths of the dark forest, threatening to engulf the land in chaos. Faced with a dire choice, Tiernan must cast aside his personal ambitions and embrace a destiny fraught with peril. Join Tiernan as he navigates the treacherous path of duty and heroism, unearthing secrets of a legacy he never knew he possessed. Will he rise to the challenge and defend his world against the looming darkness, or will he be swallowed by the very shadows he seeks to conquer? Embark on an epic adventure filled with magic, courage, and the struggle to find one's place in a world on the brink of destruction. Discover the power of hope and the strength of the human spirit in this captivating tale of bravery and self-discovery.

My Rating + Review

My rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4 out of 5 Stars)

The characters are exceptionally well-developed, showcasing a rich tapestry of character development, distinct personalities, and clear character distinctions that allow readers to easily differentiate between each individual. This depth of characterization not only enhances the narrative but also facilitates a strong connection between the readers and the characters, enabling them to journey alongside them visually through the text and story.

Tiernan, our male protagonist, exhibits remarkable growth throughout the novel. His evolution as a character is compelling, as he navigates the complexities of friendship, the responsibilities of being a son, and the challenges of personal development. Tiernan embodies traits such as loyalty, friendship, love, and an open-mindedness that is refreshing. His kindness and determination shine through, as does his inner strength, both of mind and heart, which ultimately positions him as a natural leader among his peers. As readers follow Tiernan’s journey, they witness his struggles and triumphs, making his character arc not only relatable but also inspirational.

In contrast, the Vorlox serves as a formidable antagonist, intriguing readers with its enigmatic thoughts, actions, and the mysteries surrounding its origins in the forest. The complexity of the Vorlox adds layers to the story, prompting readers to ponder its motives and the history that shaped it. This villain is not merely a source of conflict but a well-crafted character that invites curiosity and engagement, enhancing the overall narrative.

The settings within the story, ranging from bustling shops to serene forests and the intimate homes of the characters, are vividly described, immersing readers in these environments. Each location feels alive, serving almost as a character in its own right, contributing to the atmosphere and emotional depth of the narrative. The detailed descriptions allow readers to visualize the world alongside the characters, enriching their experience and drawing them deeper into the story.

While the writing is generally descriptive, engaging, and immersive, there are moments when it can feel somewhat clustered. This density may occasionally disrupt the pacing of the story, causing certain sections to slow down. However, the interludes sprinkled throughout the novel are skillfully placed, providing essential backstory and new information that maintain the mystery aspect of the plot. These chapters are crucial, as they contain significant insights into character development, particularly regarding the Vorlox, and should not be overlooked by readers.

The plot itself is intricately woven, detailed, and features a delightful blend of mystery, contemporary themes, historical elements, action, and adventure, all laced with a touch of magic. This combination keeps readers engaged and on the edge of their seats until the final pages, allowing them to connect with and accompany the characters on their journey. The effective use of time jumps adds an additional layer of complexity to the narrative; however, readers must pay close attention to fully grasp the important plot points and character developments that occur, as overlooking these details could hinder their reading experience.

The story imparts valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, personal growth, self-discovery, determination, and the importance of hard work, making it a beneficial read for individuals of all ages. It is worth noting that while the book is primarily targeted toward middle-grade readers, it possesses qualities that could resonate with young adult and even adult readers as well. However, potential readers should be aware that the narrative includes mentions of animal and human deaths, which might be distressing, particularly for younger audiences. These elements, while significant to the plot and character development, are not depicted in a graphic or overly frightening manner, ensuring they serve a purpose within the story rather than existing solely for shock value.

"Everbright" by Craig Phillips stands out as a remarkable debut novel, brimming with action, learning, adventure, friendship, and the exploration of both good and evil magic. The narrative evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of a blend between the tales of Robin Hood, with its themes of archery and hunting, and the darker undertones found in characters like Venom, thanks to its intriguing villain. This multifaceted story promises a captivating experience for readers, inviting them to delve into a world where adventure and moral lessons intertwine seamlessly.

Discussion Questions and Activities for "Everbright"

Before Reading

Prediction Activity: Look at the cover and title of "Everbright." What do you think the story might be about? Write down your predictions.
- Creative Art Prompt: Create your own cover design for "Everbright" based on your predictions. Use colors and images that represent the themes you think will be present in the story.

Character Exploration: Research what a halfling is in fantasy literature. How might being a half-halfling influence Tiernan's character and experiences?
- Creative Craft Prompt: Make a character sketch of Tiernan as a half-halfling. Include details about his appearance, clothing, and any unique features that reflect his background.
Theme Brainstorming: Discuss the themes of adventure, bravery, and self-discovery. What do these themes mean to you? Can you think of other books or movies that explore similar themes?
- Creative Art Prompt: Create a visual mind map that connects the themes of "Everbright" to other stories or personal experiences. Use drawings, symbols, and colors to represent each theme.

During Reading

Character Journals: Keep a journal for Tiernan. After each chapter, write down his feelings, challenges, and growth. How does he change throughout the story?
- Creative Art Prompt: Design a scrapbook page for Tiernan that includes images, quotes, and symbols that represent his journey and character development throughout the book.

Setting Descriptions: While reading, create a map of the various locations in the story. Label these places and note the significant events that occur in each one.
- Creative Craft Prompt: Construct a model of a key location from "Everbright" using materials such as cardboard, clay, or recycled items. Add details that emphasize important events or characters linked to that place, or draw one of the locations.

Quote Reflection: Identify quotes that resonate with you. Discuss why they are significant and how they relate to the characters' journeys.
- Creative Art Prompt: Create a poster featuring your favorite quote from the book. Illustrate it with images or designs that capture the essence of the quote and its impact on the story.

After Reading

Character Comparison: Compare Tiernan with the Vorlox. How do their motivations and backgrounds differ? What makes each character compelling?
- Creative Craft Prompt: Create a character profile for both Tiernan and the Vorlox. Include their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations, and illustrate these profiles with images or symbols that represent each character.
Creative Writing: Write an alternate ending for "Everbright." How would you change the conclusion? What new challenges would Tiernan face?
Creative Art Prompt: Illustrate a scene from your alternate ending. Use a comic strip format to depict the key moments and decisions that Tiernan encounters.

Theme Discussion: Discuss the lessons learned from the book about friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery. How can these lessons apply to your own life?
- Creative Craft Prompt: Create a "Lessons Learned" collage that visually represents the themes from the book and how they relate to your own experiences. Use magazine cutouts, drawings, and personal photos.

Book Review: Write a review of "Everbright" that includes your thoughts on the characters, plot, and overall message. Would you recommend it to others? Why or why not?
- Creative Art Prompt: Design a book cover for your review that captures your opinion of the story. Include elements that reflect your thoughts on the characters and themes.

About the Author

Craig Phillips has been teaching for over 20 years. His love for fantasy began in 3rd grade when his class read Norton Juster's The Phantom Tollbooth. EverBright is his first novel. It took him eight years to finish, and he hopes the sequel will take much less time.

Author Interview: Craig Phillips

In a candid interview, Craig Phillips offered insights into his writing process and the inspiration behind his novel "Everbright."

Q: When did you first get into reading/writing?

A: "I have loved reading since my mother read Dr. Seuss to me as a child. The magic of other worlds in the pages of stories has always captivated me."

Q: What inspired you to write this book?

A: "I was playing a tabletop RPG called Basic Fantasy, and in the midst of character creation, I became focused enough on the backstory of my character that I realized it was a story I wanted to tell in novel form."

Q: What are some things you hope readers take away from the book or connect with?

A: "I hope they find likable characters living in a world with a good mix of dilemma and heart. Above all, I want readers to feel like this story was worth their time and that this was a world worth stepping into for a little while."

Q: What was your writing, editing, and publishing process like?

A: "This book took me 8 years to write. Over that time, I read other novels as much as possible. At this point, I read about 120 novels a year, and I am always absorbing second-hand knowledge of the craft in that way. The beta reading process was a challenge for me, but I got it done. I self-published, and I found that process to be fairly painless. Advertising has been a bigger challenge."

Q: Do you have any advice or tips for aspiring creatives in the book field: writers, editors, reviewers?

A: "Writing doesn't have to be a solitary endeavor. I met a group of writers who were serious about encouraging each other to be excellent, and we started meeting every other week. That's the only reason this book got finished at all. Book 2 in the series is nearly 50% complete after working on it for less than a year because of that group."

In this insightful interview, Craig Phillips shared not only the journey that led him to write "Everbright," but also the importance of community in the creative process. His reflections on the challenges and joys of writing highlight the dedication required to bring a story to life over many years. Phillips’ hope that readers will connect with his characters and the world he has created speaks to the heart of storytelling. As he continues to develop his craft and work on the next installment of his series, aspiring writers can take inspiration from his commitment to collaboration and growth. Ultimately, Phillips reminds us that the journey of writing is as significant as the stories we choose to tell.

Where to Purchase "Everbright"

You can find "Everbright" at various retailers, including:

Consider supporting local bookstores and libraries to foster community engagement and a love for reading.

Conclusion

"Everbright" by Craig Phillips is a remarkable debut that invites readers into a richly crafted fantasy world filled with adventure, magic, and profound themes of self-discovery. Through the journey of Tiernan, a relatable and well-developed protagonist, we are reminded of the importance of bravery, friendship, and the pursuit of one's true identity. The intricate plot, vivid settings, and compelling characters create an immersive reading experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.

As we reflect on the lessons woven throughout the narrative, it becomes clear that "Everbright" is not just a tale of adventure but also a celebration of the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. With its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to captivate readers and spark meaningful discussions.

We encourage you to embark on this enchanting journey and explore the world of "Everbright." Whether you are a young reader or simply young at heart, there is something in this story for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the magic within its pages and join Tiernan as he navigates the challenges of his destiny. Happy reading!