The Bella Chronicles

The Adventure Begins...

Children - Preteen
268 Pages
Reviewed on 01/04/2015
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Brenda Casto for Readers' Favorite

The Bella Chronicles: The Adventure Begins by Erica Leigh Austin introduces readers to a four-year-old Shih Tzu named Bella who was so unhappy in her old home that she decided to run away, hoping to find someone who would truly love her. She didn't really devise a plan; she just decided to go, but when she hears someone say that there is a dog in trouble she doesn't hesitate to stop and help. Soon though, she realizes that there are two women chasing her - will she be able to get away from them and if she does where will she go?

This is an action packed, easy to read chapter story that is certain to capture the imagination of young and old alike. I found myself drawn into the story of Bella and whether or not she would find a forever home. The Bella Chronicles: The Action Begins is such a wonderful story where Erica Leigh Austin allows readers to see the story unfold through the eyes of Bella and the many animal friends that she meets! I love the way the animals communicate. There always seems to be plenty of animal drama going on and Bella always winds up right in the middle of it. The author allows Bella to deal with plenty of issues that young readers may be facing as well, such as bullying and making new friends. Bella often has a sharp sense of humor which had me laughing out loud as I visualised the scenes that Erica Leigh Austin described, such as Bella getting dressed up, or going to the vet. I could just imagine Bella standing up to those mean bullies and being rescued by a few of her friends.

The descriptive writing paired together with very well done illustrations allow the characters to jump from the pages and right into my imagination. I could easily visualise Charlie the squirrel or Barney the cat. Each animal character had a very unique personality and voice, and I found myself anxious to see who the author might introduce next. I became so absorbed in the story that I really felt like I was seeing the adventures unfold through the eyes of the animals. I loved this story and the splash of mystery and suspense the author provided made for a page turning read. The bombshell ending that Ms. Austin provides certainly piques my interest in the next book in The Bella Chronicles.