Have you ever read a book that made you pause and think, Wow, how did someone so young write this? That’s exactly how I felt after diving into The Curse of Ondskap. Written by 11-year-old Diya Goel, this third installment in The Adventures on Doryu series isn’t just a story—it’s a burst of imagination, creativity, and passion wrapped in one enchanting package.
So, what’s the story about? Imagine a world where dragons fly, shapeshifters guard ancient secrets, and mermaids… well, they don’t swim—they fly! Diya takes us on an exhilarating ride through the planet Doryu, where a sinister curse threatens everything. The heroes must unite, face terrifying enemies, and uncover hidden truths to save their world. It’s a story packed with adventure, loyalty, and enough twists to keep you guessing till the end.
For an 11-year-old, Diya’s storytelling is nothing short of impressive. Her descriptions are vivid—you can almost feel the heat of a dragon’s breath or the magic pulsing through Doryu’s lands. The pacing? Spot on. Every chapter flows seamlessly into the next, making it hard to put the book down. And while there’s room for her writing to mature, the sheer heart she pours into every word is undeniable.
The characters feel like friends you’d want on your side in any battle—brave, flawed, and fiercely loyal. What I loved most was how each character brought something unique to the table, making their dynamic teamwork a joy to follow. The story also introduces some big ideas, like the balance of power and the dangers of greed, but it does so in a way that feels natural and not preachy.
One word: captivating. The plot has everything a fantasy lover could hope for—epic battles, surprising twists, and moments that tug at your heart. The structure, rooted in the shared framework of the series, is brilliantly executed. Diya manages to stay true to the overarching theme while giving her story a personality of its own.
Beneath the dragons and mermaids lie themes of friendship, resilience, and courage. The book also subtly nudges us to think about how our actions affect the world around us—a timely reminder in today’s fast-paced, often disconnected world.
This book made me laugh, cheer, and even feel a little emotional at times. There’s a warmth to the story that lingers long after you’ve closed the book, like the comforting glow of a campfire after an adventure-filled day.
The world-building! Doryu is a place I’d visit in a heartbeat (dragons and all). The characters are relatable, and the plot keeps you hooked from start to finish.
If I’m nitpicking, there are moments where the descriptions could be pared down. But honestly, this is a tiny flaw in an otherwise stellar debut.
As someone who loves fantasy, The Curse of Ondskap hit all the right notes for me. Diya’s passion for storytelling shines through, making this not just a book, but an experience.
Diya Goel has set a high bar. If you’re a fan of fantasy (or just love seeing young talent thrive), this book is a must-read. I can’t wait to see where Doryu’s adventures take us next.
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