Buckeye Union High School student Matthew Bladel published his debut novel, Lux Spei: Crown of Growth, according to a May 12 announcement. The book is now available through Barnes & Noble’s online platform.
Bladel began writing the fantasy novel nearly three years ago, drawing inspiration from series such as Percy Jackson and Harry Potter. He took a year-long break during the process before returning to complete the manuscript in January.
“One of the hardest parts was figuring out the main plot,” Bladel said. “I had multiple drafts and changed the story several times before I found the direction I wanted.” The story follows Lux, a young protagonist whose journey begins after his sister is kidnapped. Along with his companion Victor, Lux faces challenges across mysterious realms amid a conflict between light and darkness.
Bladel independently published his book using Barnes & Noble’s self-publishing platform and plans to expand distribution to other outlets in the future. He said he hopes readers—especially teenagers—will connect with its message. “I want teenagers to see themselves in difficult situations and learn that they can survive them,” he said.
The project also held personal significance for Bladel, who cited inspiration from his late father as motivation throughout his writing process. As he works on Book Two of the planned five-part Lux Spei series, Bladel offered advice for aspiring writers: “Don’t rush the process, and don’t give up if the first draft isn’t perfect,” he said. “You just have to keep working on it until it becomes something you’re proud of.”
