Step into the enchanting world of the Frith Chronicles, where magical creatures and daring adventures weave a spellbinding young adult fantasy saga! Written by Shami Stovall, this series follows Volke Savan, a gravedigger with big dreams, as he bonds with mystical beings to become an arcanist in a world brimming with intrigue and wonder. Perfect for fans of Pokémon and Percy Jackson, the Frith Chronicles blends heart-pounding action with heartfelt themes, making it a must-read for fantasy lovers.
With its unique magic system and vibrant cast, the series captures the thrill of chasing dreams against all odds. Ready to sail with pirates, battle shadowy knightmares, and uncover ancient secrets? Let’s dive into the magic of the Frith Chronicles!
How Frith Chronicles Began
Shami Stovall, a Utah-born author with a passion for fantasy, crafted the Frith Chronicles as a love letter to her childhood. Inspired by games like Pokémon and stories like Dragon Riders of Pern, she imagined a world where humans gain magical powers by bonding with creatures like phoenixes and leviathans. Stovall’s own journey—marked by loss and resilience after her father’s death in a drunk driving accident—infuses the series with emotional depth, grounding its fantastical elements in real human struggles.
Launched in 2019 with Knightmare Arcanist, the series grew from Stovall’s desire to blend adventure with coming-of-age themes. Her background teaching history and law adds a layer of authenticity to the series’ guilds and societal structures, making the world feel alive and immersive.
The Heart of Frith Chronicles
The Frith Chronicles spans nine novels, each building on Volke Savan’s quest to rise above his humble roots. In Knightmare Arcanist, Volke bonds with a shadowy knightmare, uncovering a dark secret about his hero, Gregory Ruma, in a tale of mystery and courage. Dread Pirate Arcanist takes to the high seas, where Volke and his sister Illia confront the ruthless pirate Calisto, blending swashbuckling action with themes of justice. Plague Arcanist sees Volke racing to cure a magical plague, exploring isolation and loyalty, while World Serpent Arcanist introduces epic stakes as Volke seeks a legendary artificer amid desert mazes and godly creatures.
The series shines through its unique magic system, where bonds with creatures like phoenixes (fire and healing) or leviathans (storm powers) define an arcanist’s abilities. Themes of friendship, perseverance, and found family resonate throughout, with Volke’s growth mirroring Stovall’s knack for balancing action with character-driven moments. The flintlock fantasy setting, complete with airships and pirate-infested waters, evokes a vivid, adventurous world that feels both familiar and fresh.
Stovall’s crisp, engaging prose keeps readers hooked, while her ability to weave humor and heart into high-stakes plots makes each book a page-turner. Fans compare it to How to Train Your Dragon for its creature-bonding charm and emotional depth, perfect for young adult readers seeking epic yet relatable stories.
Why Frith Chronicles Resonates
The Frith Chronicles has carved a niche in young adult fantasy, earning praise for its imaginative world and relatable characters. Fans on Goodreads and Reddit laud its fast-paced storytelling and emotional impact, with some devouring books like Master Arcanist in days. Stovall’s active engagement with readers through newsletters and social media fosters a passionate community, with merchandise like bestiary editions and guild pendants adding to the series’ charm.
Its lasting appeal lies in its universal themes—overcoming adversity, forging bonds, and chasing dreams—paired with a magic system that sparks the imagination. As Stovall plans a sequel series, Academy Arcanist, the Frith Chronicles’ legacy continues to grow, captivating new readers with its blend of adventure and heart.
- Publication Years: 2019–2023
- Number of Books: 9 novels, 1 companion (Arcanist Fables)
- Awards: Knightmare Arcanist won a 2019 CYGNUS Award
Ready to embark on an epic adventure? Grab Knightmare Arcanist and dive into the Frith Chronicles’ magical world today!