On his eleventh birthday Thomas Farrell is informed that the deceased father he never knew has provided for his education at Darkledun Manor, a school for gifted children. Thomas, however, feels he's just an ordinary boy, but Darkledun Manor proves to be anything but an ordinary school…In this work of fiction the reader is transported into a world of myth as the young protagonist, Thomas Farrell, seeks to understand who his mysterious father was, and why he left him a strange glass orb containing a serpent. As the story progresses, Thomas and his friends become increasing caught up in a world they never knew existed – a world beyond the standing stones.You can review a short audio sample from the book, read by the author, at www.writers-and-publishers.com. A video trailer can also be accessed by viewing D.M. Andrews’ Amazon author page. Cover design by Alex Hausch. Word count: Approx. 74,000Brief: “Narnia meets Hogwarts” (AmeliaAT "Apostrophistica", Amazon reviewer)Audience: Although middle-grade fantasy, adults might also enjoy this."Spellbinding: An excellent and well written book. I was captivated from start to finish. I don't normally read fantasy novels as I find them a bit too 'fantastical,' but I enjoyed the escapism and adventure in this book." (Steven Ray Montgomery, 5 stars)"A fabulous book, extremely well written and engaging from start to finish. If you like the Harry Potter tales you'll be sure to enjoy this. Just as much fun for adults as children. Thoroughly recommended!" (S Devon, 5 stars)