Here’s the set-up for J.A. Paul’s Gladius and Bartlett Trial, 12 straight Rave Reviews and just 99 Cents on Kindle:

When fifteen year-old Gladius Oldmont is thrust from his peaceful home into the dangerous Longwood Forest he finds himself pitted against a tyrant who has been terrorizing the lands in search of answers to an ancient secret that could unlock absolute power.

From the shadows of Longwood Forest to the Hills of the Moon, Gladius must survive encounters with a near extinct scimitar cat, an ornery dragon, a horde of death bats and a tumultuous underground river which leads to a subterranean labyrinth of tunnels. Along the way, he makes new acquaintances and discovers the true meaning of friendship, including Elle – a girl who captivates his heart.

Can Gladius and friends solve the riddle of the ancient secret before the evil Mulhurt does? If they can, will they be able to do anything about it?

From the reviewers:

“His story reminds me of something in between  – PauljaSHx a Lancashire, UK book reviewer

“I would recommend this book to just about everyone looking for a thrilling action-adventure book.” – Flamingnet.com book reviewer

This book is perfect for all age readers — adventure, mystery, intrigue, suspense — yet no sex or inappropriate language! If you are having a difficult time getting your middle school son or grandson to read a book, introduce him to Gladius! — Bonnie

… a well written, fun and exciting young adult fantasy novel filled with some great characters, an exciting adventure, and a land populated by all sorts of creatures like dragons, mysterious creatures that walk the forests, and a unique villain that controls talking bats. … a fantasy novel that will be enjoyed by teenagers and adults alike. Well done! — Dean Lappi

I spent many years learning the craft of writing through the constant study of books and articles on writing. I also enrolled in and completed a two-year writing correspondence class along with various other online writing workshops. It has been a long but rewarding journey.

The twelve months prior to Gladius and the Bartlett Trial being published I sat down and rewrote it to the version of today. When I started writing I wanted to create a fantasy adventure novel for my three sons. I also wanted to show them that if you set your mind to something that it can be done. My boys are proud of my first novel I hope to continue writing for a long time to come.

Book II of the Gladius series is already under way! For more information visit http://www.authorjapaul.com/

And here, in the comfort of your own browser, is your free sample: