William Wenton and the Luridium Thief

The universe feels so vivid and imaginative — I wonder if the author mapped out the magic system in detail or let it evolve naturally during writing.

There were moments that made me laugh and others that kept me on the edge of my seat. How do authors manage to keep that balance in middle-grade fantasy?

William's journey from curiosity to bravery felt very authentic, but I’m curious whether this was planned from the start or developed as the story progressed.