{"product_id":"the-road-once-taken-9781942015048","title":"The Road Once Taken","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePortal Fantasy Adventure Novel\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eJacinda Harper just wants a vacation -- a little time to spend with an old friend and her new baby. But a speeding car on a rain-slicked road crashes just ahead of her, and alters her life forever.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe last wish from the dying woman in the wrecked car sends Jaci to a lonely mansion, where she finds a mysterious grandfather clock, a cryptic diary, and a strange key... and magic...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUnwittingly transported into a fantastical world of ominous castles, wild forests, and rebel swordsmen -- a world ruled by a ruthless sorcerer whose quest for world domination has long been thwarted by the loss of a magical key stolen from this world long ago -- the key that Jaci has just brought back into his reach...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eJaci must find a way back home before the sorcerer finds her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eContemporary Fantasy Fiction with Time-Travel Elements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis standalone novel blends contemporary and fantasy worlds through an unexpected portal journey. The story begins in familiar modern settings before transporting readers into a richly imagined realm of magic and danger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe narrative follows a female protagonist thrust into extraordinary circumstances, combining elements of mystery, adventure, and romance. From the discovery of cryptic clues in an old mansion to confrontations with a power-hungry sorcerer, the story maintains tension throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Story Elements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe plot centers on magical artifacts including a mysterious grandfather clock, an ancient key, and a cryptic diary that serve as gateways between worlds. These objects drive the narrative forward as Jaci races against time to return home while evading capture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe fantasy world features ominous castles, untamed forests, and rebel swordsmen fighting against tyrannical rule. The antagonist's long-standing quest for domination adds depth to the conflict, with Jaci's accidental return of the stolen key raising the stakes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout This Edition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePublished by Book and Sword Publishing in April 2018, this paperback edition offers a complete standalone story. Readers can enjoy the full narrative arc without committing to a series, making it perfect for those seeking a self-contained fantasy adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAuthor Lori L. Maclaughlin crafts a tale that appeals to fans of portal fantasy, magical realism, and contemporary fantasy genres. The combination of modern-day beginnings with epic fantasy elements creates an accessible entry point for readers new to the genre while satisfying experienced fantasy enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book and Sword Publishing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50493264494866,"sku":"9781942015048","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0831\/4771\/8930\/files\/img_9d09a1b4-b16d-41e5-95fd-17518be6c549.jpg?v=1730640821","url":"https:\/\/surprise-castle.myshopify.com\/products\/the-road-once-taken-9781942015048","provider":"Surprise Castle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}