“The Wells of Callystra” by Elizabeth Klein

The Wells of Callystra

Elizabeth Klein                      
Independently Published (2025)
ISBN:  979-8272366801
Reviewed by Rachel Dehning for Reader Views (07/2026)

The Wells of Callystra by Elizabeth Klein is the eighth book in the Bethloria series, an adult and YA fantasy containing elves, dwarves, dragons, magic, mystery, and adventure! This story serves as a “bend” in the series; the previous seven novels followed an overarching storyline and characters, and now this one continues with the same overarching problem and nemesis while expanding on the characters and settings. Readers can easily pick up this book and experience no discomfort related to understanding the storyline or characters, because it’s basically book one in its own series, or more like a branch-off series.

In The Wells of Callystra, a host of elves led by the elvish Prince Aeron enters the gates of Silver Heim, a dwarven kingdom ruled by King Ironheart, to inform him of the presence and very near threat of Morgran, a tyrannical ruler, bent on invading and conquering the world by spreading “the rot” throughout the lands, making it easier to take over as the citizens are struggling to survive, as well as seek an alliance between the dwarves and elves. On the way to Silver Heim, Aeron used magic during a battle with magical creatures that backfired on him, and he is now fighting for his life. Prince Aeron and his gang, along with other memorable characters from the region, must journey to Mount Callystra to find the healing well in the Sanctuary of Springs to save his life in more ways than just physical.

I enjoyed every minute of The Wells of Callystra with all its offerings – I am a fan of fantasy, and I loved the magic and magical vibes felt throughout the story. The journey introduced some crazy enemies described in amazing detail, making them feel so real that it’s almost scary. There is always the lingering suspense of whether they’ll succeed in their quest (to the Sanctuary of Springs), but several other events add to the wondering, and sometimes, worrying. There are plenty of “aha!” moments, too, that keep the story progressing at a good pace.

Readers won’t find this to be a spicy story:  just some passionate kissing. This is also an exciting story that contains no harsh language, so I would say this is a safer choice for a wider audience. There are some unanswered questions by the conclusion, but knowing there is another book following The Wells of Callystra, I have to assume I will find my questions and concerns answered there.