The Tippling Tales

By: Mike Bellis

Narrated by: Deryn Oliver

Length: 5 hrs and 23 mins

Publisher's summary

One hour that changed the boy’s life forever.

December 1975—North Wales

Daniel Hawthorn knew he was different from the day he was born, as he lay in his mother’s arms and gazed up deeply into her mysterious black eyes. But no one had prepared him for the horrors that he was about to experience, as he ventured deep into the world of witchcraft and wizardry.

Awoken by the horrendous storm, the boy would find the evil sorcerer from his nightmare minutes earlier, suddenly standing beside his bedside.

The two would battle for the survival of the rugged and magical land of Fentwell, were creatures and monsters roamed, ready to devour anything that moved.

Will the Tippling, released from his glass coffin in the depths of the old derelict mansion, help the boy on his journey, or will he be part of the sorcerer’s intentions to defeat ever single wizard alive?

Can Daniel survive the horrors of Huckle, or will he perish and never realise his astonishing hidden powers.

Book 1 of The Tippling Tales Trilogy.

©2021 Mike Bellis (P)2023 Mike Bellis

great tale for children

I absolutely enjoyed this tale! I think it would be perfect to read to young boys and girls as an epic nighttime adventure!

Interesting read

Ideal for grade school readers, this story is full of mystery and enchantment. Author has created an interesting world that with some refining, could become the next “must read” serious for preteens. I received a free audible copy of this book, and this review is based solely on my opinions.

Not a trifling tale at all

Let me take you on an enchanting journey into the mesmerizing realm of "The Tippling Tales" by Mike Bellis, a spellbinding audiobook narrated by the incredibly talented Deryn Oliver. This is a story that weaves magic, wonder, and adventure into an unforgettable tapestry that will capture the hearts of both young and adult listeners. A rollercoaster ride of adventure building to a tense climax, this tale is a literary gem that stands on its own merits and yet, undoubtedly, holds an allure for fans of the wizarding world.

We are introduced to an 11-year-old boy named Daniel Hawthorn, who unwittingly embarks on a perilous adventure on a stormy December morning. It all begins with a nightmare, setting the stage for a narrative that is as thrilling as it is imaginative. Deep within the bowels of an old, derelict mansion nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, North Wales, lies a locked glass coffin. It's a seemingly innocuous artifact, but little does Daniel know that by releasing its occupant, he would unlock a world of magic and wonder beyond his wildest dreams.

The story's central premise revolves around the infusion of incredible powers into young Daniel's veins, powers that could elevate him to become the greatest wizard to ever grace the earth. But as with all great tales of magic and enchantment, there must be a formidable antagonist, and in "The Tippling Tales," that role is brilliantly embodied by the dark master, Huckle. Accompanied by his malevolent Grotchin soldiers, Huckle is determined to thwart Daniel at every turn, before the boy discovers the true extent of his potential in the realm of magic and wizardry.

The narrative paints a vivid and richly detailed world, known as Fentwell, a land teeming with unknown creatures and unimaginable horrors. Mike Bellis has a gift for weaving an intricate and immersive setting that feels like a character in its own right. His descriptions are so compelling that you'll find it hard to put the audiobook down; the lure of Fentwell and its magical wonders are irresistible.

Deryn Oliver's narration of this fantastical tale is nothing short of extraordinary. Her ability to breathe life into the characters and evoke the magic of the narrative is truly impressive. She captivates her audience with a dynamic range of voices and an uncanny ability to convey the emotions and nuances of each character, making them feel real and relatable. The pacing and tone of her narration are spot on, and she keeps you engaged from start to finish.

As I immersed myself in this gripping adventure, I couldn't help but be reminded of the beloved Harry Potter series. The parallels between the two are unmistakable, yet "The Tippling Tales" stands as a unique and engaging story in its own right. If you're a fan of J.K. Rowling's wizarding world, you'll find a new and exciting journey waiting for you in the land of Fentwell.

Mike Bellis masterfully weaves together a tale that is tailor-made for young adults and teens, but don't let that deter you if you're an adult seeking an enthralling escape into a world of magic and wonder. The story's universal themes of courage, friendship, and the eternal battle of good versus evil are bound to resonate with readers of all ages.

The heart of this adventure lies in the trials and tribulations that Daniel, along with his friends and his beloved talking dog, must face. Their quest for survival in the face of an evil master and his loyal Grotchin warriors is a narrative thread that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The twists and turns, the unexpected allies, and the dark challenges they encounter will leave you hanging on every word.

At its core, "The Tippling Tales" explores the timeless theme of good versus evil. The dark master Huckle, with his sinister Grotchin servants, represents the embodiment of malevolence, while Daniel and his companions symbolize the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It's a story of hope and the unshakable belief that even the most powerful of dark forces can be vanquished by the strength of the human heart.

In summary, "The Tippling Tales" is a must-listen for those who crave a gripping and magical adventure. Mike Bellis has crafted a world that is teeming with enchantment, mystery, and danger. Deryn Oliver's narration brings this world to life with a vividness that will immerse you in its wonder. If you're a fan of dark fantasy, if you've ever dreamed of discovering a hidden world of magic, or if you simply seek a captivating story that will transport you to another realm, then this audiobook is for you. Join the great Tippling from the land of Fentwell in his quest for unheard-of magic, as he faces spells, sorcery, and witchcraft, all in a bid to save young Daniel in this thrilling and dark fantasy adventure. Daniel Hawthorn's journey is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, and the wonders of Fentwell await you, beckoning you to venture forth and explore its secrets.

So, don't miss this opportunity to lose yourself in the wondrous pages of "The Tippling Tales" and experience the magic, adventure, and enchantment that Mike Bellis and Deryn Oliver have conjured for your listening pleasure. It's a tale that will linger in your thoughts long after the final word is spoken, leaving you with a sense of awe and a renewed belief in the extraordinary possibilities that exist in the world of fiction.