Welcome to The Hidden Kingdom...
In The Hidden Kingdom, three strangers from different corners of the world—Keaira, Alethea, and Jacob—are torn from their ordinary lives and thrust into Synterra, a realm on the brink of war. As heirs to warring factions, they must grapple with their new roles, the unraveling mystery of their pasts, and a kingdom fraught with secrets. Keaira yearns to return home to her carefree life, Alethea embraces the change with excitement, and Jacob, haunted by a fractured family, struggles to fit in. As the battle between the Fae and the Sanguine escalates, they must decide where their loyalties truly lie.
​
For lovers of Artemis Fowl, A Wrinkle in Time and Narnia.
​
-
Reluctant heroes.
-
The chosen ones.
-
Friends to enemies to lovers.
-
Forbidden magic.
-
The fall from grace.
In Detail...
Keaira, Alethea, and Jacob—three young adults from Scotland, Greece, and France—lead ordinary lives, until strange visions and inexplicable events begin to unravel everything they know. Each is mysteriously transported to Synterra, a fantastical world divided by ancient power struggles. There, they learn they are heirs to two powerful factions: the Fae and the Terran. Keaira, a carefree party girl, just wants to return to her old life, while Alethea, introverted and studious, sees this new world as a chance for adventure. Jacob, troubled by inner conflict and a recent breakup, finds himself struggling to accept his role in this unfamiliar realm.
​
Taken to the Crystal City, the heart of the Fae kingdom, the trio is trained in battle and history, each coming to terms with the weight of their newfound responsibilities. As they uncover more about the hidden tensions within Synterra, they begin to question the motives of the Fae rulers, the Siras. While some mysteries seem unsolvable, Alethea’s curiosity leads her to unsettling discoveries that cast doubt on everything they’ve been told.
​
As they navigate power struggles, secrets, and shifting alliances, the trio must learn to trust each other and decide where their loyalties lie. But as the stakes grow higher and the land of Synterra faces an uncertain future, they realize that no one is truly safe—and no one is as they seem.
​
The Hidden Kingdom is the first book in the Synterra Saga, an epic fantasy exploring loyalty, identity, and the sacrifices made for destiny.
Shape this Story. Join the Beta team!
About The Author
Holly Rhiannon is an author whose work explores themes of darkness, grief, and transformation. Her debut novel, A Time When Demons (2022), follows rebellious witch Aeres Cadogan as she navigates Wicca society, betrayal, and a dangerous serial killer. Holly revisited this world in The Stygian Zine (Issue 2) with a story about Aeres’ best friend, Kami, as she struggles with grief and ghostly encounters.
​
Her range extends from the reflective “Oil Painting” in The Stygian Zine (Issue 1), which examines vulnerability and reinvention, to Between Signals and Shadows, co-written with Jenna Streety for 13 Haunted Nights, where two podcasters investigate a haunted island.
In 2024, Holly resigned as Montreal Municipal Liaison for NaNoWriMo in protest of their stance on generative AI. She now focuses on writing and supporting other authors through her work with The Stygian Society and her online communities.
Your Backer Box
Be part of the journey to bring The Hidden Kingdom, the first book in the Synterra Saga, to life! As one of the first 25 backers, you’ll receive an exclusive Backer Box filled with treasures worthy of a fantasy epic.
For $60 CAD, your Backer Box will include:​
-
A first-edition special copy of The Hidden Kingdom.
-
Gorgeous art prints by the book’s illustrator.
-
Themed add-ons from indie creators—think crystals, unique accessories, artisanal candy, incense, and more, all inspired by the world of Synterra.
-
Shipping!
Once we reach our funding goal of $1500 (just 25 backers), the project moves into production! This is your chance to secure a piece of fantasy magic and support independent creators in the process.
Your adventure begins here—help us open the gates to Synterra!
​
*Image of gift box does not depict the final product, it is for concept reference only.
