Wombat Books acquires Ahola’s debut middle-grade novel

Wombat Books has acquired world rights to Miles Thorne and the Forbidden Magic by Rebecca Ahola.

After being kicked out of Nox Wizarding Academy, Miles Thorne is terrified of his first day at Ravenfell school, said the publisher. Miles meets monster Eric, fairy Freya and werewolf Colter and they decide to enter the Battle Games to try to find the key to Miles’s absent powers.

Ahola is an author, teacher and guidance officer. Raised in Tasmania and now living in Far North Queensland, she uses both places to inspire her writing.

“Rebecca loves all things fantasy, and when she isn’t spending time in the beautiful tropical environment, she’s reading and secretly loves online gaming too,” said the publisher. “Rebecca has always been passionate about the important place stories have in helping young people make sense of the world around them.”

Ahola said, “Miles Thorne and the Forbidden Magic is a book with exciting, magical battles and loveable characters that is ultimately about learning to accept yourself no matter what anyone else thinks.”

Wombat Books plans to release Miles Thorne and the Forbidden Magic in July 2026.

Category: Local news Rights and acquisitions