SMOKE AND MIRRORS – Genre: Upper Middle-Grade Fantasy
What’s it All About?
There’s only one possible reason that Stewart’s parents have condemned him to the Devon Boarding School: they’ve gotten bored with him. So what better way to impress them than a spectacular Houdini-style escape from his new ‘prison?’
But Devon’s not making it easy. As if a ruthless headmistress, high-security fences, and roving packs of bullies weren’t enough, the only two people in Devon who might be Stewart’s friends pull him into a dangerous new world of dark secrets, ancient mysteries, and…dragons.
Yes, dragons. And not just your normal fire-breathing kind. These are demon dragons, world-conquering dragons, and if someone doesn’t stop them, their fearsome ruler Serapis will become Earth’s new King of the Hill.
Even Houdini never saved the world from a dragon invasion! Just imagine how impressed Stewart’s parents will be when he pulls this rabbit out of his hat.
‘Smoke and Mirrors’ has received the following recognition:
- FINALIST – 2026 Realm Awards Book of the Year
- HONORABLE MENTION (2ND PLACE) – 2026 Realm Awards (in the Middle-Grade Category)
- FINALIST – 2026 Realm Awards (in the Fantasy Category)
- FIRST PLACE – 2026 Selah Awards (Children’s Literature Category)
- BRONZE MEDAL – 2026 Illumination Awards (Juvenile / Young Adult Category)
SMOKE AND MIRRORS’ Cast of Characters
Serapis – Firstborn of dragons; and future Emperor of the Earth? 
Stewart Fox – He studied at the feet of his stage-magician uncle to be a skilled lockpicker, master of magic, and all-around rogue. So why aren’t his parents interested in him anymore? 
Samantha – She’s petite, quiet and studious. So why is everyone at Devon terrified of her? 
Cenric – The mysterious bronze dragon who may either be a kindly, addled wreck or a brilliant master of space and time far more dangerous than Serapis. 
Maya Linnet – Kindhearted, smart, and athletic, Maya has a secret hidden even to her, and disaster awaits if the wrong people learn it. 
Goldenwing – She’s vain, pampered, and totally ruthless, so you’d better not make her late for her Spa Time. 
Headmistress Morphew – Stern and merciless, she’s the power that rules Devon with an iron hand. Or is she? 
Indigo – This dragon may have a silver tongue, but can he be trusted?
In addition to ‘Smoke and Mirrors,’ I’m also wreaking HAVOK with my alien-themed short story ‘Service with a Smile!’ This appeared on the Daily Havok website on Wednesday, November 12th.
Jeff Maxim 