Book Review: Begone the Raggedy Witches

BEGONE THE RAGGEDY WITCHES by Celine Kiernan is the first book in the Wild Magic fantasy trilogy.

After her father is taken hostage by witches, Mup and her family must avoid the raggedy witches to save him from the queen who also happens to be Mup’s grandmother. Along the way, she meets magical creatures and people in her quest to find her father.

Librarians will find this intermediate grade fantasy popular with children who enjoy folk fantasy, forbidden magic, and Irish mythology. This quick read can be enjoyed as both a standalone and book one of a trilogy.

Published on September 11, 2018 by Candlewick. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Novice

THE NOVICE by Taran Matharu is the first book in the outstanding new SUMMONER fantasy trilogy.

Since Harry Potter’s reign more than a decade ago, many fantasy school series have come and gone. However, few have displayed the character development and depth of world building necessary to make them stand out. THE NOVICE is an exception. Although the first book incorporates an academy for young summoners, this trilogy takes a much broader look at the conflict among humans, dwarfs, elves, and orcs.

After stumbling upon a scroll that releases a frisky salamander demon, fifteen-year-old Fletcher sets out on his own and soon discovers an academy that helps him train as a summoner. Along with his dwarf and elf friends, he uncovers the evil plans of a group of nobles seeking personal gain.

Themes of class and species inequality make the storyline particularly compelling for teen readers. With just enough action and violence to keep readers on the edge of their seats, the plot moves quickly leaving readers thirsty for the next book.

Librarians will find a huge audience for this adventure fantasy. Because of its broad appeal, look for The Novice on youth “best of fantasy” lists this year.

A prequel is also available on Kindle called Origins. Readers will also enjoy Rory (Book 0.5). Start reading it at Wattpad.

Newcomer Taran Matharu has become known for his works posted at an online community called Wattpad. For those who enjoy fan fiction, there are already nearly 50 Summoner Fan Fiction stories available online. To learn more, go to his page at http://www.wattpad.com/user/TaranMatharu.

Published by Feiwel and Friends, an imprint of Macmillan. Available May 5, 2015.

Book Review: Seeker

SEEKER by Arwen Elys Dayton is the first book in a new science fiction trilogy. The story revolves around three friends that have been trained to become Seekers. Instead of becoming the noble protectors they envisioned, the teens get caught up in a world of family lies, deceit, and assassination.

With sword fights and ancient artifacts alongside airships and a disruptor weapon, the novel blends medieval, steampunk, and dystopian elements together for a bizarre, but fascinating near-future world. While many readers will enjoy the “mash-up,” others may dislike this unusual approach to world-building.

The fast-paced story is told from four different perspectives making it somewhat confusing at times as readers shift among characters and between the present, the past, and the future. However, the plot elements come together in the end for a satisfying conclusion that sets up the next book in this young adult trilogy.

Readers are likely to make comparisons with their favorite science fiction and fantasy works, however the novel is distinct enough to hold its own. With a hint of romance along with action-adventure segments, both girls and boys will enjoy the story.

A movie based on this book is already in development, so it’s likely to draw teen readers. Librarians should be prepared for increased interest in the trilogy over the next several years.

Available February 10, 2015 and published by Random House Delacorte BFYR, a NetGalley ARC was used for the review.