New on Amazon: Unwell
Kindle Unlimited
Unlimited reading. Over 4 million titles. Learn more
Read for Free
OR
$0.99 with 86 percent savings
Print List Price: $6.99

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Sold by Amazon.com Services LLC.
Read with our free app
You've subscribed to ! We will preorder your items within 24 hours of when they become available. When new books are released, we'll charge your default payment method for the lowest price available during the pre-order period.
Update your device or payment method, cancel individual pre-orders or your subscription at
Your Memberships & Subscriptions
Kindle app logo image

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

QR code to download the Kindle App

Follow the author

Michael K. Bialys
Follow
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.

The Chronicles of the Virago: Book 1 The Novus Kindle Edition

by Michael Bialys (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.8 out of 5 stars 15 ratings
Makenna Grace Gold is just your average 12-year-old girl. That is, until she is told that she must protect her newborn brother and sister to safeguard the future of the world. Armed with a mysterious weapon, three Fairy mentors, and a wisecracking earthworm named Fluffy, Makenna must battle the forces of evil and became a defender for hope. Can Makenna truly be ‘The Virago’?
Read more
Previous slide of product details
  1. Reading age
    9 - 18 years
  2. Book 1 of 3
    The Chronicles of The Virago
  3. Print length
    95 pages
  4. Language
    English
  5. Publication date
    July 19, 2018
  6. Page Flip
    Enabled
  7. Word Wise
    Enabled
  8. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
  9. ISBN-13
    978-0692060988
Next slide of product details
Unwell Hydration from Alex Cooper
Hydrate & focus with every sip Shop now

Shop this series

 See full series
There are 3 books in this series.
This option includes 3 books.

Editorial Reviews

Review

KIRKUS REVIEWIn this debut middle-grade fantasy, a girl must protect her newborn twin siblings from evil forces.

Twelve-year-old Makenna Grace Gold of the Los Angeles area can't wait for school tomorrow. She's trying to fall asleep, but is excited about the Science Fair, where she'll present homemade sugar crystals. Just as Makenna drifts off, a trio of fairies appears in her bedroom: cousins Bree and Dee Delphine and "Marigold Frith, Fairy Prelate." They've come to initiate Makenna as The Virago, Warrior of Warriors. From braids of light and hope, they summon the Ancient Weapon, which looks like a sword as it bonds with Makenna. The girl wakes, assuming that she's dreaming, and the fairies explain that her new brother and sister will be born tomorrow. They are hope incarnate, and Makenna must protect them against villainous forces, namely Sir Seaton, war profiteer and head of Natasi Industries. He sends his beautiful but deadly associates, Ms. Chevious and Ms. Creante, from their London headquarters to collect the twins. Luckily, Makenna can focus the power of the Ancient Weapon as she chooses, and she does so through her new lowrider skateboard. In his novel, Bialys introduces a spunky protagonist who's fun to root for as she deals with rival classmate (and skating champ) Heather Stern; the twins' creepy nanny, Ms. Revel; and later, reptilian demons. Aside from the fairies, Makenna gets help from Fluffy, a talking worm, and Stephen Levine, a dreamy Canadian transfer student. The author reveals that some characters aren't who they initially appear to be, which should keep middle-grade audiences alert. He also educates as he connects the Virago legacy to King Arthur, the monarch's sword Excalibur, and the story of David, who felled Goliath with a slingshot. The notion that children can change the world by channeling their passion through an object has broad appeal in reality, and further potential as a narrative device. The finale featuring an actual Highway to Hell should amuse anyone who's driven in Los Angeles. The overall likability of this series opener should secure readership for the sequel.
This zany adventure flaunts a heart of gold and a plucky heroine.

Pub Date: March 21st, 2018ISBN: 978-0-692-06098-8Page count: 124ppPublisher: SelfProgram: Kirkus Indie

  • OnlineBookClub.orgForumsBooks and ReadingReviews and Discussions about Specific Books and SeriesYoung Adult Fiction Books
Official Review: The Chronicles of the ViragoThe Chronicles of the Virago by Michael K Bialys is a sweet and earnest story for children at heart. When twelve-year-old Makenna Gold finds out she's the Virago--the hero of heroes, protector of the light--she can't believe it. How is she, a kid who's not even good at sports, supposed to fight darkness and save the world? But when Makenna finds out her newborn siblings are the light in need of protecting, Makenna's Virago instincts kick in. Nothing will harm her younger brother and sister, and Makenna will risk everything to defeat the darkness.

Bialys perfectly captures the thoughts of a twelve-year-old girl. Makenna's greatest concern before learning she's the Virago is winning the science fair. She's so proud of her project and wants to wipe the smug smirk off popular-girl Heather's face. When Makenna is bonded to the Virago weapon, she has a burst of energy Bialys describes as Makenna being able to answer questions while beating all the boys at basketball. These are such preteen concerns, and they are felt so genuinely. Makenna is told she will choose the form of her weapon, and she winds up with a skateboard. Skateboarding is often portrayed as a "boy sport," and it was great to see a female character rockin' some moves.

Makenna's three fairy companions are also well-voiced. Bree, Dee, and Marigold are a team but have their own unique personalities. I found myself fondly reminded of the ladies from A Wrinkle in Time or the three fairies from Disney's Sleeping Beauty without feeling like Bree, Dee, and Marigold were copied. I especially like Dee's humor. When the hounds find Makenna too soon, Dee blames social media, and it's adorable.

The story itself feels a bit transparent. When the fairies tell Makenna she's the Virago, Makenna doesn't even blink. She accepts it as truth, no questions or doubts. Based on the description of the book, I expected more about Makenna dealing with being the Virago and protecting her little siblings. Instead, much of the action focuses on Makenna's trials with Heather. After Makenna defeats an initial evil hound, something called the Alghanii is mentioned as a terrible threat. A lot happens involving Makenna's every-day life before the Alghanii threat materializes, which left me feeling like the stakes just weren't high enough. There are interspersed chapters that take place in Hell (or something similar to it) that work to forward the Virago plotline, but without the same focus from the chapters with Makenna, I got a little lost.

My favorite part of this book is the important messages it delivers. Makenna is told over and over from many sources that fear is a tool she can use to aid her as the Virago. Toward the end, one of the fairies quotes Henry Ford's famous line about how we can or cannot do something if we believe. Well into adulthood, these are things I struggle with on a daily basis. Watching Makenna put these concepts into practice gave me a tangible example of how they can really work. This alone brings The Chronicles of the Virago into the league of books able to have a meaningful impact on young readers.

I rate The Chronicles of the Virago3 out of 4 stars. The characters are great, and the lessons can't be beat. The places where the story feels thin aren't enough to lower my rating. This book is an excellent read for kids between 8 and 11 years. I would also recommend it for a slightly younger crowd to read with a parent, as this truly is a family story.

Miranda Reads's Reviews > The Chronicles of the Virago--The Novus: Book I3.5 stars

Makenna Grace Gold is about to leave her boring old life behind for the craziness of big sisterhood.

This entails many, many new responsibilities - baby sitting, extra chores around the house, oh, and saving the world from death, destruction and annihilation.She was the Protector. The Defender of Defenders.

She was the Virago.Pretty typical stuff, right?"The Dark One is the embodiment of evil. He desires nothing more than to see this world forever plunged into darkness and despair."Her twin siblings are the key to the Dark One's power and it's up to her to protect them from any and all harm.

The problem?

Makenna is only twelve years old."You? You're the protector, the Warrier of Warrors, the Defender, the Virago? Wonderful....Does he possibly think some common skater-girl could defeat us?"Au contraire mon ami, what the Big Bads don't realize is that this common skater-girl is not on her own - with the help of three fairies, her new best friend and her sword/skateboard she will become a force to reckon with. The only thing that kinda sucks is her sidekick.Harry Potter gets an owl, and I get a worm...Overall, this was a quick fun read. The storyline was engaging and honestly, the wise-cracking worm was my favorite character (he was named Fluffy. FLUFFY!).

This book did feel a bit predictable - and this is partly due to how often I've read this genre - but it bugs me a bit when the "Chosen One" is incredibly beautiful/beloved/fast/smart/strong right away.

I like to watch my characters struggle and grow - rather than being given a weapon and being able to wield it perfectly. Or have everyone fawn over them.

Also, some of the text did fall into the cliche area (one of my pet peeves). For example:"Why should I trust you?" she called out.

"I don't have time to explain. Just trust me, please?"Honestly. In the time it takes for characters to say 'no time to explain' they literally could've given a halfway decent explanation.

That being said, I think most middle-schoolers would enjoy this novel - it is fast-paced and action-packed. Makenna is a brave kid and I love Stephen - her completely human tag-a-long companion.

AND, of course, this book has Fluffy and I adore him. He deserves his own series."Thanks, Fluffy," she said, blowing him a kiss.

If a worm could blush, he would have.

With thanks to the author for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review18 likes · Like ∙ flag

Chronicles of Virago Book 1: The NovusFirst in a series
by Michael K. Bialys


Michael K. Bialys brings a new fantasy series dealing with the age old conflict of good versus evil. MacKenna Gold, a middle school student skateboarder, is the young heroine who is chosen as the Virago, the protector of the "gift." That gift is destined to lead the world into a new age of peace and enlightenment, and it happens to be her newborn brother and sister.In Book 1: The Novus of The Chronicles of Virago series, readers are introduced to MacKenna and how she is called the Virago. She battles a demon hound and some very nasty-looking reptilian beings. She also is aided by a trio of protector fairies that can shape change into human beings.
The Chronicles of Virago is an engaging story with an intrepid heroine. Young readers will enjoy following Makenna's adventures and near escapes. The villains are chilling and their schemes relentless. I can't wait to find out how Bialys handles Makenna's mission, whether he will jump far ahead in time or in smaller increments. After all, Makenna will be protecting her young siblings for the rest of their lives. This is sure to be a popular series.

Janie Franz
MyShelf.Com

From the Author

This Book was an absolute labor of love.  Inspired by my family, it echoes my own personal values of love, family loyalty and laughter. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as enjoyed writing it. Most importantly, their is more to come.Stay Tuned--Our Virago will return in the Chronicles of the Virago :The Apprentus  Book II Surprises Galore!!!!!

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07FM83YYT
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Granny Cake Publishing
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 19, 2018
  • Edition ‏ : ‎ 2nd
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 447 KB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 95 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0692060988
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Book 1 of 3 ‏ : ‎ The Chronicles of The Virago
  • Reading age ‏ : ‎ 9 - 18 years
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.8 out of 5 stars 15 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Michael K. Bialys

Michael K. Bialys

Brief content visible, double tap to read full content.
Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

Michael Bialys is originally Toronto, Canada, where he began his career as a self-taught pianist, composer and lyricist.

While pursuing a music career in Los Angeles, Mr. Bialys studied law and became a licensed Attorney in 2004.

While attending law school, Mr. Bialys met and married his wife. It is his wife and three children who inspired him to write the "The Chronicles of the Virago," series The series was originally inspired his eldest daughter, Makenna.

Mr. Bialys was Honored By the CIBA as he was named as a Finalist for Dante Rossetti Book Awards recognizing emerging new talent and outstanding works in Young Adult Fiction.

Mr. Bialys' Third book, The Chronicles of the Virago Book 3 The Apprentus was honored with a Kirkus with a Blue Star review marking it as exceptional work

Customer reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
15 global ratings

Review this product

Share your thoughts with other customers
Write a customer review

Top reviews from the United States

  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Very good! I really liked this book.
    Reviewed in the United States on April 5, 2007
    Verified Purchase
    I just finished reading "The Chronicals of the Virago: The Novus" and I must say, I was impressed. The plot is really good and it's interesting to see the interactions between the characters. I am really looking forward to seeing how the final battle between the bad guy and Mak plays out, since he seems too powerful for her right now. I am excited to read the direction that Michael Bialys takes his next book. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy.
    6 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Michael Bialys
    5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
    Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    Loved it
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Shrykespeare
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great read for preteen girls!
    Reviewed in the United States on April 13, 2018
    It's been awhile since I read an MG book, so when I read the premise for this story, I very eagerly snatched it up and read it in only two sittings.

    Makenna is a typical 12-year-old girl, just trying to survive middle school while anxiously awaiting the arrival of twin siblings. As dark forces swirl around her, Makenna soon realizes - thanks to three very persistent fairies - that she is a Virago, the latest of many heroic champions destined to protect the future from those who would destroy it... a future that lies in the delicate hands of her newborn siblings.

    This was a delightful romp, and it has much that preteen girls would enjoy - action, a heroic girl, a cute boy (of course), and clearly defined bad guys. I look forward to reading what Michael Bialys has in store for our intrepid heroine!
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Miranda Reads
    4.0 out of 5 stars Whirlwind Adventure!
    Reviewed in the United States on May 21, 2018
    Makenna Grace Gold is about to leave her boring old life behind for the craziness of big sisterhood.

    This entails many, many new responsibilities - baby sitting, extra chores around the house, oh, and saving the world from death, destruction and annihilation.

    Pretty typical stuff, right?

    Her twin siblings are the key to the Dark One's power and it's up to her to protect them from any and all harm.

    The problem?

    Makenna is only twelve years old.

    Au contraire mon ami, what the Big Bads don't realize is that this common skater-girl is not on her own - with the help of three fairies, her new best friend and her sword/skateboard she will become a force to reckon with. The only thing that kinda sucks is her sidekick. ("Harry Potter gets an owl, and I get a worm...")

    Overall, this was a quick fun read. The storyline was engaging and honestly, the wise-cracking worm was my favorite character (he was named Fluffy. FLUFFY! ).

    I think most middle-schoolers would enjoy this novel - it is fast-paced and action-packed. Makenna is a brave kid and I love Stephen - her completely human tag-a-long companion. AND, of course, this book has Fluffy and I adore him. He deserves his own series.

    With thanks to the author for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Love it! Ready for next installment!
    Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2018
    This was a great read! In this book, Bialys has shown his ability to captivate the reader with well-paced action, strong character development, and original fantasy action. There were many fun twists and turns and the reader is taken on a fantastic journey replete with fairies, high-school rivalry, nervousness of that first crush, and the war between good and evil. I am looking forward to what Bialys will bring next. This book is great fun for the whole family and you will love all the surprises within it!
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • SANTIAGO SHATAN
    5.0 out of 5 stars VERY EXCITING, KEPT ME ON EDGE WITH ANTICIPATION! ...
    Reviewed in the United States on May 22, 2018
    VERY EXCITING , KEPT ME ON EDGE WITH ANTICIPATION!!!!! EXCITED FOR THE SECOND BOOKI... THIS COULD COMPETE WITH ANY THRILLER ON THE BIG SCREEN.. WELL DONE!!!
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
    Reviewed in the United States on March 24, 2018
    Amazing ❤️
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Terry South
    5.0 out of 5 stars Contemporary Fantasy at its finest.
    Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2007
    The Chronicles of the Virago

    By Michael K. Bialys

    The stories main character is Makenna, who is your typical 12 year old girl. The setting is

    Pasadena, California.

    It all begins when Makenna is approached one evening by three fairies who tell her she is to protect her twin siblings from evil forces. The fairies arm her with an Armasword which is a powerful mystical weapon. Upon their visit they also tell her that she is the chosen one, the protector which they call the Virago. Her twin brother and sister are born with a gift of goodness and Makenna must protect them from evil, this is her quest and so the journey begins.

    In this fantasy an earthworm reveals the evil force by name and that name is Sir Seaton. It is he who will be on his own quest to locate and destroy the twins preventing them from defeating pure evil in the future. Will Makenna discover Sir Seaton among the many disguises? Will she fail or prevail?

    This is contemporary fantasy at its finest. A rich captivating story between good and evil with a picturesque ending where good prevails. It is both enchanting and a stimulating read for young readers, and offers vivid accounts and memorable characters. The story will excite your children and spark their imaginations, all while teaching family values. Your daughters will be cheering for Makenna, and your sons will be captivated and thrilled with the story filled within the pages.

    This is a must for children, and highly recommended. It was a delightful pleasure reviewing this title and look forward to the next in the series.
    11 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report

Report an issue


Does this item contain inappropriate content?
Report
Do you believe that this item violates a copyright?
Report
Does this item contain quality or formatting issues?
Report