Title: MINTAKA: The Awakening
Author: J.J. Gozzi
Publisher: iUniverse
ISBN: 978-1663268211
Pages: 290
Genre: Teen & Young Adult Magical Realism
Reviewer: Liz Konkel

Read Book Review

Most aren’t aware that on the highest peak of Sacramento Mountain lies the ancient city of Mintaka, where the Stellankin wait. Fewer still know what happened to these lost people and their unique ability. Having freshly broken through her parents’ overprotective boundaries, no one is more eager to dive into an intriguing mystery than Ariana Vega. Ari is determined to learn more about who she is and what her parents have been keeping from her, even if the answers she seeks draw her into an age-old conflict that has left those who came before trapped in a different dimension.

MINTAKA: The Awakening is the first book in a new series crafted by author J.J. Gozzi, MINTAKA’s fantasy elements are woven into a realistic, familiar world. While rich with history and magic, the world itself is kept relatively light and mysterious, written for young adults to enjoy and become swept away. Gozzi blends adventure, prophecy, and mysticism into a coming-of-age story that is sure to resonate with readers. This is done through a world that feels just out of reach, something that Ari is aspiring to connect with. A world that blends fantasy, mythology, and constellations to create something that feels both unique and familiar. You get references to notable Greek gods, such as Apollo, however, with a connection to the world and a twist that feels original. These elements give a genuine sense of excitement for the intricate details that make up the world and the care that Gozzi took into bringing it to life.

Ari is just fourteen when she discovers the destiny her parents have so carefully protected her from. It is her curiosity and determination that guide her through the trials and dangers, keeping her from the role she is meant to play in this world. MINTAKA is about finding yourself as much as it is about taking control of your own destiny. Growing up is a core component of this journey, with her often offended at being referred to as a ‘child’ and taking on the weight of the world. She leaves everything familiar behind to embark on this adventure, where the rules change and danger inches closer. This makes for an exciting mix of discovery and action, which is perfect for young adults. Part of this includes her friends and allies who help guide and support her. A standout character is Luca, who serves as her personal encyclopedia, with knowledge and a presence that helps her navigate the world.

Ari’s story finds her exploring what she’s capable of, but the familial elements help ground her as a character. Ari may be strong and clever and destined for great things, but she is also still a teenager who needs her family and gets frustrated with her parents over small things as much as for the bigger secret. This helps ground her in reality as she’s still parented. She even deals with a dad sermon or two throughout, which successfully makes her feel like a real teenager despite the fantastical circumstances. Being told from her perspective allows for some lightheartedness and humor that prevents the tone from ever dipping into being too serious or dark. Through a fantasy world, Gozzi perfectly shapes the importance of understanding our origins and ancestors. There are moments, as she discovers more, where you get this strong sense of longing and nostalgia, especially when her father looks back on ‘beautiful times.’ Part of this is a shocking secret that changes everything she knows about her family and potentially herself, while being just what she needs to drive her forward. With the revelation of another dimension and the idea of an heir looming over Ari’s journey, the excitement and danger of the truth of the Stellankin make MINTAKA a page-turner.  Perfect for fans of supernatural adventure and cosmic fantasy, MINTAKA: The Awakening launches an unforgettable journey beyond imagination.