Reading Suitability
The Third Orb is written primarily for readers around ages 11–14. The story contains mystery, danger, and serious themes, but no explicit language, sexual content, or graphic violence.
For parents, guardians, and readers
For Parents & Readers
The Third Orb is written primarily for readers around ages 11–14. Parents, grandparents, and guardians are invited to read alongside a young reader—or simply talk about the story as they go. Reading together can make the experience richer, giving young readers someone to share their questions, reactions, and favorite moments with.
How families can participate
Read, Discuss, Respond
Families can move through the story at their own pace, talking about what happens and sharing thoughts, questions, and reactions along the way.
Reading Together
Parents, grandparents, and guardians are welcome to read alongside a young reader and talk about the story as they go. What felt exciting, surprising, confusing, or memorable? There are no right or wrong reactions.
Information Collected
Readers may submit feedback using a first name, nickname, or code name; a full legal name is not required. For younger readers, a parent or guardian email address may be used.
Consent & Questions
If an email address is provided, it may be used for beta-reading updates and follow-up questions. Any additional communication or acknowledgement is optional. Questions or removal requests can be sent to HiddenLevelBooks@gmail.com.
Beta reader acknowledgement plan
Recognizing Thoughtful Reader Feedback
Readers who share thoughtful feedback across multiple chapters may be invited to have their contribution acknowledged in the published book. A first name, nickname, or code name can be used—a full name is never required.
View Acknowledgement PlanAuthor Q&A
What Inspired The Third Orb?
The roots of The Third Orb go back to Warren Stewart's childhood in Australia. When he and his older brother came home for lunch, their mother would read aloud while they ate. Many afternoons they returned to school late because they begged for "just one more chapter."
The book that captured their imagination was The Adventures of Zorro: mystery, hidden identities, secret passages, daring escapes, courage, and the triumph of good over evil. Those stories did more than entertain; they awakened a lifelong love of reading and imagination.
Why reading matters
A Story Written to Invite Readers In
Years later, when Warren's own son struggled to find enjoyment in reading, he remembered how strongly those childhood stories had captured his imagination. He began writing the kind of adventure he hoped might do the same for his son. That early family story eventually grew into The Third Orb.
In many ways, the novel is written to give today's young readers the same feeling Warren remembers from the kitchen table: finishing one chapter and immediately wanting to begin the next.
Ready to begin? Start the story from Chapter One, or visit the current beta project.