A book about a self-proclaimed book nerd and narrated by a magical book? Count me in. Books about books are either great or pretty meh. I am happy to report that this one is on the pretty great side of the spectrum. While it was a tad to comprehend where this book was going at the very beginning, it quickly came together and hooked me. Each of the characters also had something important to add to the story, so it was almost like peeling an onion.

When their mother dies in a car crash, the two are shipped off to an Aunt Beryl's house where they feel like unwelcome intruders. The butler and housekeeper are kind, but their aunt ignores them and tells them areas that they have to stay away from. One of those areas is the library, which of course the kids can't stay out of, especially when one of the books calls to them. Piper is especially upset when she overhears her aunt planning to get rid of all of the books and put up fakes.

The book that glows and calls to them is in fact our narrator. The Novus Fabula is a special book that helps the children get through this trying period of their lives. Piper and Mr. Greene, the butler, also talk a great deal about how books in general can help you get through difficult situations and the power that books have.

The Edge of Everywhen is a magical book about finding your story. Sometimes you need a little push to get through the hard parts of life, but faith, friendship, and family can help you get through. This is a very special middle grade novel.

I received an advance reader copy of this book to book in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

This book is an amazing read for children. I had tears in my eyes at the last few chapters!
Such an imaginative and endearing story that children will absolutely adore! This book has some amazing quotes in it at the start of each chapter and has a fantastic cast of characters. The story grips you from the beginning and I couldn't stop turning the pages.

When I first spotted this book on NetGalley I was intrigued by the title and the cover looked appealing. The synopsis seemed like something I might enjoy too, so I requested a copy not realising that it had a religious aspect, which is not something I usually look for in a book.
Once I discovered that, I was a little more reluctant to read it but I decided to give it a chance. The premise of using a book as the narrator, and not just any book, but a magical one that changed according to the reader was a really fun and interesting idea, and it played out well over the course of the book. I really liked the two siblings, Piper and Phoenix, and loved the bond between them, and how well that dynamic was explored in the book. The plot had a good set up, but unfortunately it was a little less dynamic than I would expect in a book aimed at middle grade children, and I fear some might lose interest. While there is clearly a religious aspect, it was not overpowering , however I think it is still something that should be made more obvious in the publisher's description and synopsis.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.

The Edge of Everywhen is a heartfelt story about Piper, a voracious book lover, and her younger brother Phoenix. The book is laced with a message of hope as each character struggles through something unique to them. A love of literature is threaded through the pages and each character is a memorable one.

*This book is a Christian faith based book, so be sure to go into it expecting scripture and talks about God, prayer, and the Bible.*

Thank you to B&H Publishing and A.S. Mackey for a copy of this lovely book in exchange for an honest review!

Piper and Phoenix have just lost their mother she died in a car accident. As for their father he has been missing for two years. Now they have to go live with their Aunt Beryl. They only met her once before this. When they arrive their Aunt Beryl tells them they can't touch this. They also aren't allowed to go into certain rooms, they aren't allowed to run around. If this isn't already enough for Piper to deal with. She is also taking care of her brother Phoenix he has autism. Piper helps him out a lot with what he needs. She is also protective of him as well.

This is the first book like this that I have read. I must say I really enjoyed it. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author.

The Edge of Everywhen follows the lives of Piper and Phoenix Guthrie, who have just lost their mother, Naomi, in a freak car accident and their father, Gordon, has been missing for the past two years. Piper and Phoenix have to go live with their Aunt Beryl in Maine, after only meeting her once many, many years ago. This isn't an ideal situation for either of them, as Piper feels like she has to step up to the mother role for Phoenix, as he has ASD, and doesn't cope well with changes and new people. Sofia and Mr Greene, the cook and the butler respectively, play such an important roles within the book, providing maternal and paternal like figures in their lives as they cope with a major change in their lives. 

Aunt Beryl's house is made to feel like a prison for the children - they can't run inside, they have to eat their meals at a very set structured time, Beryl is very cold towards the children, they aren't allowed in certain rooms in the house, which to Piper's dismay, the library room is off limits. That is until a book speaks to Phoenix and Piper, and then Phoenix sneakily takes it from the library, filling the spot with one of Piper's books shes received from home. This book changes the lives of everyone in the house, for the better of course. Then everything in Maine starts to look up for Piper and Phoenix because of this little, blue glowing book. 

This book is nothing like I've ever read before, especially a middle grade book. I did initially struggle with this book, as the first chapter is wordy, but I couldn't help but be sucked in by a book written from the perspective of another book, Novus Fabula. I was so curious to continue reading to see where the story went. I initially requested it because of the cover, I kind of expected a Chronicles of Narnia hope, which it didn't hit that mark, but it was completely different in it's own right. 

I truly loved the slow progression of Phoenix - it really hit me in the heart feels. It was the most beautiful part of the book, which I think would have been missed for the middle grade audience, but would hit the heart strings of any reader that is older than middle grade.

I'm not someone who would normally pick up a Christian fiction novel, but the religious aspects within the novel were done really intelligently and well, and in a way that was subtle but I also found them important in the novel. 

This novel was just a beautiful book all about healing, family ties and learning to grow. The writing was perfect for a middle grade audience, but easily as good for any other reader too!

Thank you very much to B & H Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

We all know what it is like to have a book’s words resonate deeply without our hearts long after we have completed it.

For me, this is one of those books. From the moment I was introduced to it’s characters and up until I read the last word, I felt a deep connection with the message and story.

Following the tragic death of their mother and disappearance of their father, Piper and her younger brother Phoenix are sent to live with their very wealthy Aunt Beryl Bouchard. Sadly, Aunt Beryl seems less than thrilled to be stuck with the two kids and would much prefer to have them stay out of her way. Luckily, both children are fairly well behaved and have the company of two lovely others who stay on the property, a butler named Original Greene and a housekeeper named Sofia.

We soon realize that Piper loves reading and is very protective of her younger brother, Phoenix. Piper’s younger brother is autistic and has not spoken in years.

Soon, the two children literally hear a special and magical book, named Novus Fabula, speaking to them, and it wants to tell them a story…..their story. But will they listen to it? And do/can the others in the house hear the book, too?

It was EASY for me to immediately fall in love with this story. The children swept me off my feet as I know what it is like to lose a parent. My own father passed away when I was twelve.

If you love literature and reading books (and if you have read a lot of books, whether as a child or adult), you will adore the many references throughout this book. They abound. I was smiling so much as memories came flooding back from all the actual books, and even movies made from books, referenced in this novel. It’s wonderful.

The healing religious elements in this novel are so subtle and I liked that a lot. I usually do not like a lot of heavy religious themes but I do appreciate intelligent placement of them and this is one of those times.

We all have things that happen in our lives, whether it is losing a loved one, having some sort of ailment or illness, or knowing someone who is going through or has been through the same. It can ultimately be anything. And it is at these times that we might feel utterly alone or abandoned by everyone around us…our friends, our family even. And sometimes, even God. But, it is at these times when you need God the most, that you will realize that He is there.

This is a lovely, powerful, and invigorating work of middle grade fiction. It made me smile. It made me cry. But mostly, it helped me heal and I love it for that.

Thank you so very much Netgalley and B&H Publishing Group for the advanced reader’s copy

Narrated by a magical book The Edge of Everywhen weaves a beautiful story of dealing with grief, change and what it means to believe. Piper and Phoenix have had their worlds turned upside down with the death of their mother and with their father still missing they are forced to go live with their very strict aunt who couldn't be less happy to have them. Along the way they find a book that helps them to deal with the hard things in their life and learn that some times you have to have a little faith in the things unknown.
A story woven with beautiful vocabulary this isn't a book you should sleep on. Discover the magic for yourself and learn to believe just like Piper and Phoenix.

**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an early copy in exchange for an honest review.**

Piper and her autistic brother Pheonix go to live with an estranged aunt after their mom dies and their dad is missing. They read a magic book and life is okay.

I want to love this book so much, yet I don't. On top of being confusing and disjointed in the beginning, it continues to be disjointed throughout the book. The perspective changes from the book to piper to the dad don't make sense. I'm assuming the book is allegorical to the Bible which is fine, if done poorly.

My biggest issue is the autism rep. Where we definitely need to have it in literature, what isn't needed is the idea that a bit of faith from a book will make it better. It doesn't , and that's exactly how this book portrays it. As the parent to an autistic child this frustrated me to no end and seriously lowered the rating for this book.

Great story idea, bad execution.

"Everyone's story matters."

What an impact this story had on me! The narrator is unique and unexpected yet adds such an endearing touch to the story. There are many wonderful novels spanning over the years that are eluded to throughout the book. It made me want to enter and experience them for the first time all over again. Mackey's writing style kept me reading way past my bedtime. Both readers young and old will enjoy the story within these pages.

What would you do if you lost your mother and your father and you had no choice but to go live with an old aunt that you didn't even know? You would be super sad, right? This is what has happened to 13-year-old Piper and her brother, Phoenix. Their father worked in construction and was sent overseas by the American government to rebuild ruined hospitals and schools in a country torn apart by war. One day he went missing and has not been heard from in two years. Then one night their mom was coming home from work on a rainy night when her car was in a wreck and she passed away. With no other family but an old aunt that lives thousands of miles away from their home, they are forced to go and live with her in Maine. When they arrive at the house they are given very strict rules for the huge mansion of a house that seems more like a museum than a house. They are not allowed to run in the house, they are forbidden to eat anywhere except the kitchen, and they are absolutely prohibited from ever going into the library. This might be okay for some but for Piper and Phoenix, this is bad for two reasons - 1) they are avid readers and love all books, and 2) there is a book that seems to be calling their names. That may sound crazy because a book can't talk... or can they? When Phoenix takes the book, Novus Fabula, from the library their lives are forever changed. With the help of Mr. Greene, the butler, and Sofia, the cook, and their aunt's three dogs, Piper and Phoenix begin to slowly heal. But when they find out a secret that their aunt has been keeping, will things ever be the same again? Is their dad alive and if so, why hasn't he come home to them? Will Piper and Phoenix discover that magic truly does exist and if so, will they discover the source? Will Aunt Beryl ever warm up to Piper and Phoenix and make her house a home or will they always feel like an outsider? Read this incredibly amazing story to find out!

This Is one of the most refreshing books I have ever read! Piper is a girl after my own heart! Her love of books and reading makes my heart smile! She is also extremely loyal to her friends and family. Even when things are not going her way (like when all of her books were taken away from her) she still showed respect to those in charge. She was also dealt some tragic cards and even though her faith in God wavered she never truly gave up in Him. This is one of the most heart-warming stories I have read in a very long time! This has quickly become a #1 story in my book! Please do not miss this book about tragedy, rebounding from that tragedy, family, friendship, love, mystery, magic, and most of all that God is in control and when we are ready to accept Him He will be there for us!

Thirteen-year-old Piper and ten-year-old autistic Phoenix Guthrie have been sent to live with their aunt Beryl after the tragic passing of their mother. The children’s father went missing two years prior while he was on a special construction project in a different country.

The narrator of this story is a book named Novus Fabula whose name in Latin means “new story”. This book happens to find a new reader at the time when the reader needs it most.

I thought the depiction of autism in this novel was spot on and presented an accurate portrayal of life on the autism spectrum. I also thought this novel dealt with grief in a delicate and beautiful way. The definition of “Everywhen” was also extremely heartwarming and I found myself reading these pages over quite several times. I may even have them highlighted to read later.

A big thank you to NetGalley and B&H Publishing for allowing me to read an early copy of this book!

I have posted my review already over on my Goodreads account.

Piper and her younger brother, Phoenix, find themselves in a car ride to Aunt Beryl’s house (or mansion) – their new home. Their father had been missing for two years. Their mother just died in an accident. Phoenix is non-verbal, which makes their transition even more difficult.
But shortly after their arrival, the children find a book in the library. Or rather, the book finds them. This book can speak to its reader. And the Story is different for each.
The book is called Novus Fabula, or “New Story” in Latin. It is our narrator for this tale. In the novel, the Story within its pages shows readers who they are, deep down inside. What happens next is quite the Story...

This is an incredibly moving novel. It’s engaging. Humorous and witty. Light-hearted at times. Heavy at others. Mackey creates a strong sense of empathy for Piper. The book's examination of faith is one of the most powerful and genuine discussions I’ve heard in a while. Mr. Greene, the butler, is a wonderful role model for children. His Christian perspective comes off intriguing and engaging, rather than forced. He prefers to spend time in those thin places, where you can feel the sense of heaven all around you. Piper discovers her own thin place while reader Novus Fabula in a tree in the garden.
Three things stood out to me:
1) Piper’s powerful love for her brother.
2) The build-up and satisfying conclusion to their father’s rescue.
3) A fresh appreciation for the power of literature and its ability to speak directly to the soul.
Christian or not, child or not, this book is a must-read.

A wonder-filled adventure, with real world truths that stand strong after the last page is turned.



Piper and Phoenix are a brother and sister, who share a special bond. After the death of their mother and disappearance of their father they are sent to live with their father's older sister Aunt Beryl, where the discover a mysterious and wonderful book.



I loved how this book is told from the perspective of the book, and I couldn't help but think multiple times that this would make a fantastic audiobook read by a grandfatherly man with a cultured accent.



For me this book struck all the right notes, and is a story that could easily be enjoyed by the whole family, though the target reading level is middle grade/tween. This book will be especially appreciated by booklovers, as many well-beloved books are mentioned throughout, and Piper is a girl after my book-loving heart.



There are many wonderful characters, I especially liked Mr. Greene, and his kind, thoughtful countenance. Phoenix is a very intelligent boy, and I loved the relationship between him and his sister. There are fun quotes woven throughout the book at the beginning of each new chapter, some real and some made up, and I loved how they enhanced the story. Also this book does an excellent job of capturing the fantastic whimsy of this story, while revealing solid truths in a natural way that flowed within the fibers of the story without feeling forced.



I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and came away completely blown away and impressed with how well written this book was, and how well it presented spiritual truths. It is a book that stays with you after the last page is turned down, and the more I thought about the things that I liked in preparation for this review, the more things I found to appreciate. This book has a classic and inviting feel to it, and even though the main characters are children I never thought that this story over simplified or talked down to the reader, which brought to mind warm thoughts of Narnia and Mister Rogers Neighborhood. This is a wonderful adventure that I highly recommend for the whole family!



I received a complimentary ecopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A magical book provides narration and transforms a family in this new middle grade novel. How would you like to read a book that tells your story, but makes you feel like a new and improved version of yourself? The Novus Fabula is meant to be enjoyed and shared, not left on a dusty bookshelf. A final message reminds us that "Everyone's story matters." Piper and Phoenix will capture the hearts of readers and make everyone wish for such a book. And perhaps we already have one. Could Mackey be using the special book as a metaphor for the Bible? It most certainly contains good news.

Thank you to B&H Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.

Sometimes a reader can find a perfect book at just the right time. When tragedy strikes, Piper and her younger brother, who has autism, move in with their Aunt Beryl. Aunt Beryl is not used to being around kids. Stuck in a mansion with little to do the children find themselves by reading.
I love how this book consistently refers to great works of literature. Some younger readers may get confused when the story changes points of view throughout. Overall, this is a great book for people who love literature and love to read.

The Edge of Everywhen by A. S. Mackey, comes out on May 12th. It follows 13 year old Piper, a young book lover, and her Autistic brother Phoenix as they move across country after the death of their mother. In their aunts house, a strange new book seems to call to them..
I loved this book. It took me a while to get into it but once I did I couldn't put it down. The characters are loveable and I really enjoyed seeing them develop through the story.
I really enjoyed the religious undertones, that added depth and hope to the story but without being overwhelming.
This book brought me to tears and made me smile almost at the same time.
This story is simply magical. 4 stars, would recommend

I am one of the lucky ones that had the pleasure of reading The Edge of Everywhen before publication.

First, I'm going to say, stick with it. When I first started to read, I do admit that I nearly put it down and not pick it up again. Immediately I thought it was very clever being told from the perspective of an actual book, but the first chapter or so was very wordy (for a lack of a better description). I had started to read this to my almost teenager, she didn't want me to read anymore because of the clever big words used and not knowing what some of them were and the over descriptions.

I found myself bored and so picked this up again and again nearly put it down for its references to God. From the way it was mentioned I thought it was going to turn out to be a book pushing religion at me, which is something I tend to avoid as I like to keep my beliefs to myself and don't like it when it feels like people are trying to force their views onto me. I am glad I did not put it down again. Once the first couple of chapters were finished it moved into a lovely flow and was easy to read in the end and I did not want to put it down.

I enjoyed reading about spirited Piper whose love of the written word was endearing. Phoenix, an autistic boy who sends secret messages to his sister, loves books as much as her and has a way with animals as well as his own special gifts.

Mr Greene and Sophia were also great characters and easy to relate to.

I found it difficult to relate to the aunt because we seldom see her in this book until the end when it is too late for me to feel anything about her.

The father as well, I thought he was a bit short changed. I was very interested to see what would happen and how he would make it back, but felt it was skipped through. It didn't change my like for this title, but it made me wish there was just a bit more.

All and all, I am glad I read this. I will recommend to those I feel will enjoy and I will most likely pick this up again and read it for the second time.

This was a very unique and interesting book. I did have trouble at first getting into the book but once I got going, I really didn't want to put it down. I love coming across something unique. It's refreshing. This book felt magical. A bit like reading the Narnia series. I loved the christian fantasy feel to it. I have certain students in mind to suggest this to and I can't wait to share it with them. I look forward to more from this author.

I loved this book! This was the first book I have ever read with a point of view of a book. This book began as many books do with two children left at a home with a relative that never wanted them. But that is where the similarities end. It was a book of intrigue and mystery in a beautiful way. The character development and world building was wonderfully done. The way this author portrayed a person with a disability was expertly done. I will wait impatiently for another book from this author.