Hear what readers and critics are saying about Sandra Tisiot’s work.
Thought Runners by Sandra Tisiot follows River, who, identified by Ayla as the final member of the Twelve, must learn to become a Thought Runner—someone who can access higher planes of consciousness to perceive truth, influence outcomes, and maintain balance between light and dark forces. Under Ayla’s guidance, River trains in awareness, observation, and mental discipline while coming to terms with a series of revelations, including who his biological father really is. The Dark One monitors River, seeking to manipulate him and exploit his emerging abilities. After a shocking death, River and the Twelve face attacks from dark operatives attempting to seize critical evidence and eliminate members. As direct threats mount, the Twelve, who are seriously wounded and forced to regroup, fight to protect themselves and counter the Dark One’s schemes.
Sandra Tisiot’s Thought Runners bursts with inventive energy, bringing Ayla’s Thought Runner abilities and River’s awakening to the forefront of an extraordinary world. The book immerses readers in the formation of the Twelve, showcasing the group’s strategic coordination, shared visions, and efforts to prevent destructive futures. River’s experiences, from rescuing Ayla during a suspended car incident to processing loss, all lean into an arc of courage and quick thinking. All the characters are fully developed, and many of the setting depictions are almost cinematic in how vibrant they are. One in particular, where River sees a dove carrying a lavender sprig and experiences a lavender field, is lovely, while interactions with characters like Clea, Curly, and Evan create a strong sense of camaraderie. Tisiot deftly balances the mystical elements of thought manipulation and ley lines with urgent real-world parallels, making the story an imaginative read.
Asher Syed, Readers’ Favorite
In Thought Runners by Sandra Tisiot, River is born into a wealthy family, but his life is not easy, as his father doesn’t love him. This affects River greatly as he grows up. His mother, however, loves him dearly and never fails to remind him that he is special and should not look down on himself. After many years of uncertainty about his life after high school, he decides to attend a college in DC. His roommates are Evan and Curly, and they soon introduce him to their friends. As things unfold, River discovers his supernatural abilities and is introduced to the Twelve, a group of Thought Runners that can access higher planes of consciousness and bend the energy around them to their will. These Thought Runners are good people hoping to fight for a future where everyone benefits. On the opposing side, we have some with similar powers but who use them for dark purposes. How will things unfold?
Thought Runners by Sandra Tisiot is wonderfully written and takes the reader on a gripping journey filled with unexpected directions and moral dilemmas. I loved the themes covered, such as empathy, honesty, and taking care of the environment. This thought-provoking work also captures the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive in our political system, as many leaders might not have good intentions with the power entrusted to them. Sandra also utilized suspense effectively, ensuring I kept looking forward to the events of subsequent chapters. The characters are well-developed, and the reader will also appreciate the excellent narrative, which adds to the overall appeal of this amazing work. This was a good read, and I look forward to more by Sandra Tisiot.
Frank Mutuma., Goodreads
Thought Runners by Sandra Tisiot follows River, a young man who has escaped a troubling past in California and is now embracing new beginnings in Washington, D.C, while attending college. River meets his housemates, Evan and Curly, and gradually forms a close bond with them. His new life gives him the strength he needs to confront his buried family trauma. Through his interactions with his friends—including Ayla, a gifted girl—River learns about the existence of Thought Runners: people who can persuade others through their feelings and thoughts. River is shocked to discover he is a Thought Runner, and it is up to him and his friends to bring truth and justice to a world endangered by lies. Despite personal loss, feelings of guilt, and self-doubt, River and his friends are determined to stand up against prominent and familiar figures to do what is right.
Sandra Tisiot’s Thought Runners is a gripping coming-of-age story that highlights crucial themes, like personal growth, friendships, overcoming trauma, family issues, political tension, and the pursuit of truth in a world guided by mass deception. The teen characters are profound and relatable. Although they are influenced by past trauma and invisible struggles, Tisiot uses these incredible characters—despite their flaws—to bring out a human element that will linger with readers even after the book has ended. The writing is emotional, and the conversations between the key characters overflow with intensity. The narrative moves smoothly, expertly intertwining action-packed moments with reflective and quieter ones. This novel reminds me of books like The Darkest Minds, Shadowshaper, and The Diviners. If those novels stood out to you in any way, so will Thought Runners.
David Jaggart, Avid Reader
