Buckeye Union High School student Matthew Bladel is turning imagination into accomplishment as a newly published author whose book is now available through Barnes & Noble.
Inspired by popular fantasy series such as Percy Jackson and Harry Potter, Matthew began writing his own story nearly three years ago. What started as a creative idea eventually became a published novel after years of dedication, revisions, and perseverance.
Matthew recently published Lux Spei: Crown of Growth, the first book in his planned five-part fantasy series, Lux Spei. After beginning the project several years ago, he took a year-long break before returning to the manuscript and completing the book in January.
“One of the hardest parts was figuring out the main plot,” Matthew shared. “I had multiple drafts and changed the story several times before I found the direction I wanted.”
The novel follows Lux, a young character whose journey begins after his sister is kidnapped, leading him through mysterious realms, dangerous battles, and a larger conflict between light and darkness. Alongside his companion Victor, Lux embarks on an adventure filled with challenges, discovery, and growth.
Matthew independently published the book through Barnes & Noble’s online platform and hopes to eventually expand distribution to additional outlets, including Amazon and physical bookstore locations.
Beyond becoming a published author while still in high school, Matthew hopes readers, especially teenagers, connect with the deeper message behind the story.
“I want teenagers to see themselves in difficult situations and learn that they can survive them,” he said.
Matthew also shared that the project was personally meaningful and inspired in part by his late father, whose memory motivated him throughout the writing process.
As he continues working on Book Two in the Lux Spei series, Matthew encourages other aspiring writers to stay patient and persistent.
“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.”
Matthew’s achievement reflects the creativity, determination, and talent of Buckeye Union High School District students both inside and outside the classroom.