Debut YA Fantasy The Sword They Should Have Left Alone Opens a Bold New Adventure Across Three Colliding Worlds
A thrilling coming of age tale blends humor, heart, and high stakes fantasy in the first installment of the Rifts Between Three Worlds series.
- (1888PressRelease) February 17, 2026 - Author Michael Ban makes a powerful entrance into the Young Adult fantasy genre with his debut novel, The Sword They Should Have Left Alone (Rifts Between Three Worlds Book 1), published by Michael Ban Books. The novel introduces readers to an unforgettable adventure that fuses interdimensional conflict, sharp wit, and a deeply personal journey of courage and resilience.
What begins as an ordinary Monday quickly descends into chaos when a sixteen year old city teen witnesses the unthinkable. Assassins from another world murder his father and abduct his mother through a mystical gateway. Armed with nothing more than a schoolbag, quick thinking, and an unexpectedly opinionated talking toothbrush, he steps into a war torn realm filled with monstrous creatures, political tension, and a destiny far greater than he ever imagined.
Blending fast paced action with humor and emotional depth, Ban crafts a story that explores what it truly means to grow up when life changes without warning. Beneath the fantasy lies a powerful message. Courage is not the absence of fear. It is the decision to move forward despite it. Through intelligence, heart, and determination, the young protagonist confronts forces far larger than himself and discovers that heroism often begins in the most unlikely moments.
Unlike traditional epic fantasies centered on trained warriors, The Sword They Should Have Left Alone presents a refreshingly modern hero. He is a tech savvy urban teenager navigating ancient magic and brutal conflict using resourcefulness rather than brute strength. The result is a story that speaks directly to today’s young readers and reminds them that bravery can exist in ordinary people.
Michael Ban, a lawyer by training who works in commercial dispute resolution, brings a distinctive perspective to his storytelling. His diverse background includes developing board and card games, establishing an arts centre for underprivileged youths, and leading youth outreach and education programmes. These experiences inform the layered world building and emotional authenticity of his work. He lives with his wife and daughter and draws inspiration from both structured professional life and imaginative play. With its compelling mix of adventure, heart, and humor, The Sword They Should Have Left Alone sets the foundation for the Rifts Between Three Worlds series and positions Ban as a promising new voice in Young Adult fantasy fiction.
Book Details
Title: The Sword They Should Have Left Alone (Rifts Between Three Worlds Book 1)
Author: Michael Ban
Publisher: Michael Ban Books
Publication Date: January 25, 2026
Edition: First Edition
Language: English
Reading Age: 7 to 18
Format: Digital, Paperback
For readers who enjoy imaginative world building, witty narration, and emotionally grounded adventure, this debut novel delivers an exciting journey across worlds and into the heart of courage.
For media inquiries, review copies, or more information, please contact:
Email: jy ( @ ) michaelban dot com
Website: michaelban.com
###
space
space
Satisfied Users & 
Approved Press Releases
Print
Email
Report Spam