It started as a simple ride through the woods for Rachel and Lisa Vanderstorm – the Princess Sisters of Castle Rose. But things got interesting when they were suddenly transported to the mysterious Hidden Lands! There, armed only with their courage and good sense, the girls must help their new friend Elzabeth recover the stolen (and magical) burning-blossom seeds from the camp of the dangerous Archer - and still make it home in time for dinner!
Book One of the Castle Rose series tells of the Princess Sisters' discovery of the Shimmering Gate, and explores the amazing world to which it leads. Blending the realism of medieval castle life with the fantasy of magic and myth, the lavishly illustrated Castle Rose series will delight readers with intriguing characters and involved storylines.
Includes the Bonus Tale: The Princess Sisters and the Copper Dragon
About The Author
Kevin Franz is the author of the successful children’s fantasy series, the Castle Rose Adventures, published by Starbell Books in Plainfield, Illinois. The first book of the series, Into the Hidden Lands, was released in February of 2004, and serves as an introduction into the mythical world of two young princesses who discover and amazing new land of excitement and mystery.
Praised for its lavish illustrations, interesting footnotes and detailed maps, Into the Hidden Lands cleverly combines the realism of medieval castle life with the myth and magic of classic fantasy. Now in its second printing, the book won a loyal following of young adventure readers. The much anticipated sequel, The Underwater City, was released in June of 2004 to an eager audience, and the third installment in the series, The Affaire at the Faire, is scheduled for a November 2004 debut.
Born and raised in West Allis, Wisconsin, Kevin received a Data Processing degree in 1984 and moved to Naperville, Illinois to design telecommunication software for AT&T Bell Laboratories. His love and talent for writing eventually led him away from software design and into technical documentation, where he still spends many of his non-fiction hours. The birth of his daughters in 1993 and 1996 rekindled a love of storytelling, and eventually produced the original bedtime stories that would evolve into the Castle Rose Adventures.
In 2003, Kevin created his own publishing company, Starbell Books, and self-published his first work of fiction. Kevin is also an accomplished speaker, and regularly presents his Creative Writing Workshops to young audiences throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.
Kevin currently lives in Plainfield, Illinois with his wife Denise, daughters Rachel and Lisa, and son Michael.
Reviews
"What a wonderful read! I was hooked at once and felt a special rapport with Princess Rachel and Princess Lisa as they ingeniously worked through totally enchanting adventures in a wholesome and intellectually clever manner. I ended each book anxiously anticipating the sister's next adventure . . . A wonderful series beginning!"
Barbara C. Johnson, M.Ed., NBCT
First Grade Teacher and Alverno College Faculty Member 2004 Wisconsin State Teacher of the Year
"The Castle Rose Adventures are stories with the right blend of danger, fantasy, adventure and coziness that should delight girls ages 6-10 . . . A delightful blend of fantasy and adventure as two princess sisters use their wits to complete quests given them by an enchantress."
Pat Campbell
Head Children's Department, West Allis Public Library
"A story where the girls are heros and true companions"
Jerry O'Shea
Principal, Meadow View Elementary School
"The illustrations are fantastic. The detail in each picture encourages the reader to examine it and look for hidden items . . .The addition of maps in the book enhance the text and enable the reader to be a part of the magic."
Jan Brulz
Second Grade Teacher
"This book would be a great bedtime story. Such a loving family! . . . Hurray for a book with courageous girls!"
Debra Woodbury
Reading Teacher
"A real page turner for children of all ages. The maps add a nice touch."
Laura Drexler
Special Education Teacher
"What child wouldn't fall in love with magical horses, dragons and villians?"
Christine Klussendorf
Owner, Director, Early Childhood Educator, Sunshine Garden Children's Center, Inc.
"I find the stories very entertaining. I didn't know what would happen next . . . The adventures and reactions are believable for children."
Kirsten Bass
Fifth Grade Teacher
"A new fairytale series that follows the adventures of two clever princesses."
Sharon Mix
Learning Center Director
