🚀 “Multiverse Mayhem Done Right!” – A Review of "Thrash Force" by Raj Sidhu

What do you get when you mix middle school chaos, a sprinkle of multiversal magic, and a villain with a name like Doomface? You get Thrash Force, written by Raj Sidhu and illustrated by Billy Yong, an action-packed, laugh-out-loud debut that’s perfect for fans of Dungeoneer Adventures and Once Upon a Tim. This book is a wild ride from page one—and trust me, you’ll want to buckle in.

Thank you to the author, illustrator, and publisher for the book and my honest review. This book tour is sponsored by Toppling Stacks Tours.

About the book:

Title: Thrash Force

Author: Raj Sidhu

Illustrator: Billy Yong

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy

Publishing date: July 15, 2025

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

Rep: Indian American, AAPI

Synopsis:

When Riley Singh unwittingly offends a multiversal sorcerer, he and his friends are whisked into a freaky new reality in this hilarious middle grade fantasy adventure—perfect for fans of Dungeoneer Adventures and Once Upon a Tim.  

Seventh grader Riley Singh is a smart kid—smart enough to know that he could be an exceptional student in school if he wasn’t always playing Dungeon a role-playing game where he and his friends embark on radical adventures to slay demon lords and rescue the occasional village.  

The only problem is that Doomface, the villain of their newest adventure, is listening in on their game and may just be maniacal enough to pull four middle schoolers through the folds of reality to satisfy his ego.   

Stranded in a strange world with magical powers and alter-ego bodies, Riley and his friends will have to find a way to defeat Doomface. And Riley will do whatever it takes to get home before his parents realize he’s missing—even if that means dooming his friends along the way. 

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My Review of "Thrash Force" by Raj Sidhu

Riley Singh is your classic middle schooler: clever, strategic, and slightly distracted by his obsession with Dungeon Brawl, a role-playing game he and his friends take very seriously. So seriously, in fact, that their campaign attracts the attention of none other than Doomface—a multiversal sorcerer with a serious flair for the dramatic and an even bigger ego.

When Doomface literally pulls Riley and his friends into another reality, things get very real. Armed with the magical abilities of their RPG characters, these seventh graders have to survive bizarre landscapes, zany creatures, and some truly bonkers plot twists to make it back home.

⚔️ Fast-Paced, Funny, and Full of Heart

From the very beginning, Thrash Force dives headfirst into adventure—and doesn’t let up. The action scenes are chaotic in the best way, mixing slapstick humor with real stakes. Sidhu’s pacing is impeccable: no scene overstays its welcome, and there’s always a new twist or obstacle around the corner. Middle grade readers will tear through this book, and even older readers (like this grown-up RPG nerd right here 🙋‍♀️) will be hooked by the imaginative worldbuilding and laugh-out-loud moments.

😂 Characters That Absolutely Rule

One of Thrash Force’s biggest strengths is its cast of characters. Riley is witty and relatable, especially in the way he tries to balance being a good friend with wanting to get home as fast as humanly (or magically?) possible. His friend group—each with their quirks, flaws, and RPG specialties—bring different energies to the story, and their banter feels effortlessly authentic.

Even Doomface, the over-the-top villain, is hilarious in that classic “evil but extra” kind of way. You almost want to root for him… almost.

🌀 A Multiverse Worth Exploring

The world Sidhu creates is colorful, ridiculous, and totally immersive. From a reality where dumpsters talk (yes, really) to a side-quest involving magical chickens (I won’t spoil it, but it’s chef’s kiss), the book isn’t afraid to get weird—and it works. The absurdity of it all actually sharpens the stakes, reminding readers that anything can happen in this multiverse. And usually does.

💡 What I Loved Most

Honestly? Everything. But if I had to choose:

• The energy: It’s high-octane without being overwhelming.

• The humor: Smart, snappy, and age-appropriate without ever talking down to the reader.

• The themes: Friendship, bravery, and the consequences of your choices—even when they come in the form of magical portals and villainous spells.

  
  

And let’s talk about that ending—no spoilers, but let’s just say there’s definite series potential here. I’ll be first in line if Sidhu continues Riley’s adventures.

📚 Final Thoughts

Thrash Force is the kind of middle-grade book that kids will love and parents and teachers will appreciate. It’s engaging, clever, and just the right amount of ridiculous. If you’ve got a young reader who loves fantasy, video games, or just a good underdog tale, put this one on their radar ASAP.

Raj Sidhu has crafted a debut that’s as bold as it is bonkers—and I mean that in the best way. Five stars from me! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Meet the Author and Illustrator:

Raj Sidhu

Raj Sidhu grew up as an Indian American kid who dreamed of magic powers and vanquishing evil. As an adult, he is a proud fantasy nerd and a successful education entrepreneur. He has extensive experience marketing to parents and schools and entertaining kids at assemblies. With these powers combined, he hopes to tell tales that kids will love for years to come. 

Raj lives in California with his wife, children, and a playful puppy named Scout. When he’s not telling fiction, he creates curriculum for schools.

He is represented by the wonderful Emelie Burl at Susan Schulman Literary Agency.

Website | Goodreads

Billy Yong

Billy Yong is an illustrator and character designer. His works span book titles like Thor Quest, Green Jolene, The Minor Miracle, and the picture book, My Pet Feet. Billy has also illustrated for products by Great Eastern Insurance, Seamonger, and several others.

Billy also designs washi tapes for his little project Swashimi. He plans to go into all sorts of stationary design.

Billy lives in Singapore. When he’s not doodling around, he’s busy surviving parenthood, or fighting against his addiction for bubble tea.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Giveaway:

One (1) Paperback of "Thrash Force" by Raj Sidhu, Illustrated by Billy Yong. USA only, ends on August 31, 2025—midnight EST.