Step into the thrilling world of The Unaltered, where a teenage girl discovers cosmic powers and a destiny that could change the world! Penned by Lorena Angell, this young adult urban fantasy series follows Calli Courtnae, a high schooler whose record-breaking sprint unveils her superhuman speed and plunges her into a secret society of powered individuals. With its blend of superhero action, coming-of-age drama, and a touch of romance, The Unaltered has captivated readers globally and even caught Hollywood’s eye for a film adaptation.
From its dream-inspired origins to its gripping narrative, The Unaltered series offers a fresh take on the urban fantasy genre. Let’s dive into the story behind this spellbinding saga and why it’s a must-read for fans of adventure and self-discovery.
How The Unaltered Began
Lorena Angell’s journey to creating The Unaltered started with a vivid dream in 2009, an unusual fantasy tale that unfolded with a clear beginning, middle, and end—rare for her, as she typically didn’t dream in fantastical settings. Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s perseverance, Angell spent four days typing 50,000 words, birthing the first book, A Diamond in My Pocket. Despite rejections from literary agents, she self-published in 2011, leveraging platforms like Smashwords and Amazon. Her indie spirit paid off, with the series gaining traction and earning over 5,200 reviews averaging 4.5 stars.
The Heart of The Unaltered
The Unaltered series spans seven books, with the core storyline anchored by four key titles. A Diamond in My Pocket introduces Calli, a 16-year-old who breaks the 100-meter world record and is whisked to a Montana facility. There, she learns she’s a superhuman Runner tasked with delivering a mystical diamond that grants powers like mind-reading and healing—but it’s coveted by evil forces. A Diamond in My Heart follows Calli as she masters her abilities and faces a time-rewinding teen with romantic delusions. The Diamond of Freedom and The Diamond Bearers’ Destiny deepen the stakes, pitting Calli against General Harding, a villain bent on harnessing the diamond’s power.
The series shines with its urban fantasy setting, where cosmic energy fuels superhuman clans operating in a shadowy world of espionage and betrayal. Themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and moral dilemmas resonate, as Calli navigates her powers and relationships. Angell’s fast-paced storytelling and relatable characters, sprinkled with romantic tension, make the series a page-turner for young adult readers and beyond.
Why The Unaltered Resonates
The Unaltered series has left a mark on the young adult urban fantasy scene, amassing over 325,000 downloads across 51 countries and hitting #1 bestseller lists in 11 nations. Its appeal lies in its blend of accessible superhero tropes with deeper questions about identity and trust, making it relatable for teens and adults alike. The series’ film option signals its growing cultural footprint, promising to bring Calli’s adventures to a wider audience. Angell’s indie success also inspires aspiring authors, proving dreams can spark stories that resonate globally.
- Publication Years: 2011–2022
- Number of Books: 7
- Notable Recognition: A Diamond in My Pocket named a Breakout Book by Apple’s iBookstore in 2013
- Bestseller Status: #1 in 11 countries for multiple titles
Grab A Diamond in My Pocket and dive into The Unaltered’s thrilling world of superpowers and secrets—you won’t want to put it down!