Middle Grade Novel: A Dark and Desperate Race

Lorelei Savaryn reviews a new Catholic middle grade novel from Pauline Books & Media. 

A Dark and Desperate Race

By Stephanie Weiler Hanson

Published by Pauline Books & Media

Content Considerations: Sudden loss of a beloved pet, some violence related to battles, brief depictions of death. 

Many Catholic parents are on the lookout for books we can confidently give our children. We search for books that uplift virtue, present faith in a positive light, and engage the young readers in our home.   

Pauline Books & Media is investing in a Faith through Fiction initiative, in order to bring beautiful, faithful stories, like A Dark and Desperate Race, into the world.  

Synopsis  

A Dark and Desperate Race by Stephanie Weiler Hanson follows the story of Will Pennington, who is good with animals but bad with numbers, and who feel alienated by his harsh father. When Will discovers a secret plot set to bring destruction to the land, he must race against time and best a man intent on causing many people harm in order to prevent the worst from happening. Along the way he befriends a holy man and a young lady from the royal court, but danger lies ahead and time is running out to save the kingdom and his home. 

Book Review  

The book has a great cover the fits right in with other books in a similar genre. I think the story will absolutely engage especially early middle grade readers who enjoy tales featuring adventure, battles, and a medieval-type setting. They may be able to relate to Will’s struggle to be too young to be taken seriously by many adults in his life, and may rejoice with him as he plays a key role in saving the kingdom.   

Few middle grade books include portrayals of the Catholic faith, and when they do there are often negative or inaccurate components. One of my favorite parts of this story is how faith is portrayed in an authentic and positive way. Will wrestles with his faith, particularly in his search for God amidst suffering. His spiritual journey is meaningful and it ends up in a satisfying place.  

As a parent, I certainly feel good about recommending this book to my children and other young readers in my life.  

I hope to see more Catholic publishers investing in fiction for middle grade and young adult readers and am grateful for Pauline’s investment in bringing stories like this one into the world!  

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2025 Lorelei Savaryn
Images: (top) detail from cover