Westborough, Massachusetts Dec 5, 2025 (Issuewire.com) - Escala’s Wish, the debut romantasy novel by Massachusetts attorney and author David James, is rapidly gaining momentum ahead of its December 13 release. With over 1,386 Goodreads adds, more than 12,800 views on its Amazon-produced trailer, and an enthusiastic ARC team of 28 early readers, the book is emerging as a breakout contender in the fantasy and romantasy space.
ARC feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with readers praising the novel's emotional depth, vivid worldbuilding, and cinematic storytelling:
“Escala’s Wish is amazing – it’s a story that lingers with you long after you turn the last page. DJ truly poured his heart into this one, and it shows.”
— Emmi Glosser
“This book made me laugh, cry, smile, and wish I could curse the author. Escala’s Wish is a rollercoaster of emotions and surprises. Buckle up!”
— Natalie Marner
“It’s not every day an author’s first book leaves me wanting more. Fingers crossed for more Escala soon.”
— Bart Kraning
“I finished the book on my London trip and loved it! The characters are complex but relatable… I see it all vividly.”
— Ginny, Booksprout Advance Copy Reader
“Absolutely enchanting! The magical realm, the characters, the narration—all brilliant.”
— Ginny, Booksprout Advance Copy Reader
“Your book reads like an adult Disney movie, in all the best ways.”
— Christina Marks, Booksprout Advance Copy Reader
In addition to strong reader praise, Escala’s Wish is performing exceptionally well in Amazon rankings, currently placing within:
- Top 6% of Romantic Fantasy (Kindle Store)
- Top 5% of Sword & Sorcery Fantasy (Books)
- Top 4% of Epic Fantasy (Kindle Store)
- Top 4–5% of all Kindle books (over 3.8 million titles)
The book’s momentum is fueled by a fast-growing online presence, highlighted by a Goodreads giveaway that has already drawn over 750 “Want to Read” adds and an Amazon-produced trailer that surged to nearly 13,000 views in just a matter of days.
About the Book
Escala’s Wish follows Escala Winter, a rebellious faerie scarcely two apples and a green grape tall, whose single forbidden kiss sets off a catastrophic chain of events. Cast out of the Court of Dreams, Escala embarks on a dangerous journey where love, destiny, and ancient magic collide. It is the first installment in the Tales from Valla series.
Author Statement
“Every laugh and every tear in this book comes from somewhere real in my own life. Writing Escala’s Wish was cathartic, joyful, and often painful—and sharing that emotional honesty with readers has been the most rewarding part of this journey.”
— David James
Availability
Beginning December 13, 2025, Escala’s Wish launches across major retailers—including Amazon, Barnes & Noble.com, Walmart.com, TrashPandaPublishing.com/store, and dozens of other online booksellers worldwide.
- Hardback
- Paperback
- Kindle
- Kindle Unlimited
The audiobook, narrated by London comedian Tom Garland, arrives late January 2026.
About the Author
David James is an attorney who lives in Massachusetts and is the creator of the VallaTM fantasy world at www.vallaworld.com, a world he has been developing for the past 10 years. He runs Trash Panda Publishing, an independent creative imprint producing fiction and tabletop storytelling experiences.
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