Review: A Curse so Dark and Lonely

A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

Published by Bloomsbury Publishing
Released on January 29 (US) February 4 (Australia)
ISBN 9781681195094

Read December 28 2018

For a long while, I thought the title of this book was A Curse so Dark and Lovely, which of course, no. But really the word ‘lovely’ brings a sort of truth to Rhen’s situation. If not for the curse, he would never have become the man he is by the time he meets Harper. The curse is terrible for the kingdom and even worse for Rhen’s family, but for Rhen himself, it saves him. There’s a sense of loveliness about that, but truly, it’s more lonely (than lovely) for Rhen—so actually A Curse so Dark and Lonely is the perfect title.

While this novel follows some of the features of Beauty and the Beast, in other ways it is updated and quite different. Rhen has cursed the whole kingdom, Emberfall, with his arrogant and privileged behaviour (not to mention reckless and thoughtless) and part of that involves turning into the monster, who without realising, kills and destroys without discrimination. The castle is enchanted, music plays, food always available, in which time moves differently. Outside the perimeter of the castle grounds, Emberfall is suffering, vulnerable to outside forces waiting and wanting to conquer it.

Rhen’s only companion is Grey, commander of the guard, sworn swordsman and accomplice in playing out the never ending cycle of the curse. This relationship is a very strong element of the story, with Grey forming a very crucial part of the triad. His sacrifices are many and his guilt strong.

Harper, our romantic lead, one half of the narrative, hero and saviour (of Rhen, Emberfall and Grey) is a thoroughly modern girl (I wanted to say ‘Millie’, but that dates me soo bad). She isn’t Grey’s choice to be the next attempt to break the curse. She fights Grey off his choice—an inebriated partly unconscious girl—and ends up in Emberfall by accident. Snarky, fierce and completely proactive, she disarms both boys in different ways, and the tussle for understanding and communication is a delightful component of the narrative. Harper’s background is grounded and authentic, and she’s possibly the only way forward for Emberfall. Watching her not only accept the role she has to play, but also developing respect and concern for both Rhen and Grey makes A Curse So Dark and Lonely a worthwhile and satisfying read. Knowing Kemmerer is already working on book two means the cliff-hanger is almost bearable.

Rhen is the heart of the story (Grey is the strength, Harper is the spark). He is tortured (quite literally as well) and damaged, unable to forgive himself, both as a royal prince and as the monster. His regrets are many, his accomplishments few. Harper forces him to confront the reality of his situation and demands he does something to help his people. One of his strengths, his ability to strategise, allows a plan to formulate, and with that comes hope, a very dangerous emotion.

There are several secondary characters, including Freya, Zo and Harper’s brother Jake, who round out a strong amazingly created cast. Their loyalty to Harper, and their own determination to save Emberfall means that ultimately the three main protagonists have others to help and support them. The climax is suspenseful and suitably dramatic, and the epilogue is, as mentioned before, appropriately open ended.

I haven’t mentioned Harper’s cerebral palsy. So beautifully integrated, Harper constantly stresses that it’s not a disability, it’s just part of her. When Grey teaches her to defend herself, she merely finds way to compensate, and the respect she garners shows how important self-confidence and strength of will can be. There are other inclusive additions, including a strong same sex relationship, which shows Kemmerer’s understanding of what current novels require.

I very much enjoyed immersing myself in this wonderful combination of fantasy land and contemporary storytelling. Kemmerer is one of the best young adult authors currently writing male leads—flawed, yet finding ways to be better, and romantic without being skeezy or fake. Her ability to present friendships between (straight) males promotes positive bonding and excellent role modelling. I would love to see this given to boys because while the cover might be off-putting, this is not an overly romantic, or girly story. Harper fights her attraction, there is very little kissing, and the action is strong and exciting.

Thanks to publishers, Bloomsbury and Netgalley for advanced copy. Highly recommended for readers who love early Sarah J Maas, series by Alwyn Hamilton and Sabaa Tahir, the Rephaim series by Paula Weston. Due out everywhere this coming week.

Review: Two Middle Fiction Books (but are they?)

Lenny’s Book of Everything by Karen Foxlee

Published by Allen & Unwin
ISBN 9781760528706
Released on October 26 2018

Read October 8-12 2018

The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars by Jaclyn Moriarty

Published by Allen & Unwin
ISBN 9781760297183
Released on October 26 2018

Read August 23 – October 10 2018

Both of these books will be marketed at young readers, anywhere between 10 and 14 years. They are very different in style, subject matter, and purpose, but they have one thing in common  – The complexity of those above elements in each, mean that they can be enjoyed by much older readers. Foxlee and Moriarty use language in extraordinary ways, they don’t pander to a preconceived idea of how books should treat children, and they certainly don’t mess around with telling some harsh truths about living and dying. These two novels deserve a wide and deep audience.

The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars is a prequel (of sorts) to The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone. The same charm is evident, the same quirky humour, and it overflows with adventures, asides, and development of character. The start takes us to a different part of the Kingdoms and Empires world, and the gradual reveal of how it links to Bronte’s story is worth every minute. The story of the competitiveness between the two groups of children, and their subsequent banding together despite their differences, reflects Moriarty’s understanding of young people and the way they interact and navigate relationships. Finlay, Honey Bee, Glim, Victor, Taya, Eli and Hamish all require acknowledgement as each plays a pivotal role in discovering the mystery at the heart of the whispering wars. This is a twisty tale, and children will be caught up in the puzzles, the clues and the surprises.

However, The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars is so much more than a child’s fantasy, much in the same way as Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series is. Moriarty includes commentary and explanation along the way that is often mature and oh so relevant. We grapple with the injustices against people overwhelmed by poverty. We experience frustration at the wasted layers of bureaucracy and mediocrity. There’s also the crucial question to ponder: why are children always stolen away? This means that we, as adults, meet this story on a number of other ostensibly deeper layers, and are enriched and enlightened as well as entertained and moved.

Lenny’s Book of Everything is set in 1970’s Ohio, which might seem strange for an author who lives in Queensland. However, its time period, geographic location and creation of characters are all pitched perfectly. Cindy, mother of Lenore and David, is a force with which to be reckoned. She is all lioness, protective, growling and under estimated. Her fight for dominance with Burrell’s General Sales Manager Martha Brent, is a battle for the ages, and the lines drawn in the sand reflect the growing struggle for Davey’s life. Ultimately everyone unites for the same cause–and the emotional power is sustained and lingering on the reader.

Lenny our narrator is an authentic child. She radiates with anger about their useless ineffectual father, while she mourns his absence. She keeps Davey safe, at the same time resenting the attention everyone pours over him. She refuses to let go of her dreams to be an entomologist, and never wavers in her dislike for Mr King or her belief in Mrs Gasper. Her encounters with Mrs E Spink and the insights she gains through that misadventure, show her growing into a compassionate and kind individual. This really is Lenny’s book, and the heartache surrounding Davey is filtered through the lens of her optimism and faith in the world. Just like Scout, Holden and Ponyboy, Lenny is a character who represents her time, and whose view of the world is one to admire and revisit. Foxlee’s writing is sublime. Lenny’s Book of Everything is a story that will be enjoyed by adults as well as young people. The same is true of The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars.

Seek them out.

 

Lists: Best of 2017 Diversity

I have gone for a different take on diversity this year. Last year I focused on representation of ethnicity, this year I have broadened the scope. There are many different marginalised voices that are being heard more often and more loudly. Of course, it’s a good thing.

I have always loved the inclusive elements of Maria V Synder’s fantasy novels and Dawn Study (January) is no exception. People can have power regardless of their race, gender or sexual orientation, and while magic can represent any of those minorities, it isn’t forced or heavy-handed here. Evil exists and our heroes want to ensure freedoms aren’t impinged. It might seem straight-forward, but it’s far from that. Politics and loyalty are entwined and the stories are exciting and entertaining.

Three books I reviewed for RSO also make it on to this list. Optimists Die First and Phantom Limbs both have an amputee, and Piglettes has a secondary character in a wheelchair, but it’s Mireille and her two friends, as girls trying to affirm their identity and build self-esteem as plus size characters, that are the embodiment of positive representation here. My short reviews are added below.

Optimists Die First by Susin Neilsen (April) Random House

No one does quirky, anxious teen quite like this author. While Petula is paranoid and aggressively antisocial, readers still cheer her on because it’s clear she’s suffering much pain and sorrow. Jacob comes across as the complete opposite – charming, loquacious and extraverted—yet he’s hiding secrets, and is damaged too. Together, they journey towards finding ways to live with their guilt, and the consequences of their actions.

There are significant minor characters, particularly those who are part of the art therapy classes Petula is forced to attend, and hates. Each of these teens must also face their fears. Nielsen presents serious topics here, including alcohol addiction, parental neglect, and grief. The YART classes are often hilarious and sobering both at the same time, which will challenge readers, and let them know that often healing happens when problems are shared. These teens mock the rhetoric of their somewhat inept therapist, but ultimately they bond and blossom despite (or because of?) her inadequacies. Optimists Die First  is aimed at older teens, and is insightful and life-affirming.

Phantom Limbs by Paula Garner (June) Walker Books

This intensely intimate portrayal of grief is authentic and honest. Three young people’s lives are traumatised due to death and disaster, and teenagers will welcome its gritty realism. Otis thinks about sex often, Dara is aggressive and unapproachable, and Meg is the missing cog. Because Otis narrates, we don’t truly know what’s going on with the two girls, but secrets and pain have a way of working their way out, and it’s unflinching and uncomfortable.

Amputees are more visible in YA fiction, and Dara’s portrayal is extremely aggressive. She demands much from the mellow Otis. While he’s thankful for his physique and fitness, he isn’t sure he’s all that interested in being a champion swimmer, but he’s too much of a softie to tell Dara (plus she’s scary). Otis is turned inside out when Meg comes back, and there are lessons to be learned by all three teenagers. It concludes most satisfactorily, allowing readers to believe it is possible to survive the worst that life can throw at you.

Piglettes by Simone Beauvais (August) Pushkin Books

Piglettes has been translated from French, and has a very distinct style and feel. Protagonist Mireille survives severe teasing and humiliation about her looks and weight with humour and sarcasm. Readers will take a few chapters to adjust to Mireille’s narrative voice. It’s light! It’s irreverent, and the way she elects to name people with pseudonyms that are almost like real people is confusing and wickedly funny. For example, she refers to the President of France as Barack Obamette, who just happens to be married to Mireille’s (absent) father, who she calls Klaus Von Strudel because he is half-German. She has no filter, no fear, and no expectations that anyone will ever treat her right.

Astrid and Mireille find second place winner, Hakima, and together, they plan a road-trip to Paris to overcome their demons. Hakima’s older brother, Kader, a amputee soldier accompanies them, and along they way they sell sausages, and develop a social media following as they make their way through villages and towns. Not everything goes to plan, thank goodness, because often it’s in the unexpected that we learn, we laugh and we live.

This is a joyous celebration of girl power, and a challenge to people who are judgemental and intolerant of others. We are swayed here by laughter and friendship. Mireille is generous, kind-hearted, and trying to live her best authentic life. Young people could do worse than spend time with her on this ridiculous and inspiring journey.

Defy the Stars by Claudia Grey (April) Hot Key Books

I didn’t write anything about this book, and yet its balance of big issues and thrilling adventure has stayed with me. Its diversity comes in several ways–the development of Abel from AI to real ‘person’, the clear representation of female heroes, and the exploration of refugees and the way they are treated and primarily discarded. It’s a different type of inclusiveness, but no less important or interesting.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (April) Walker Books

Another one I wished I had taken the time to write a lengthy review. This has the unfortunate honour of being touted as ‘important’, and ‘mandatory reading’ which might have the reverse effect of turning people off. However, it is actually and thankfully very readable, and a really terrific story. Starr is an excellent narrator and her character arc of safely ignorant to ‘woke’ is plotted really well, and never comes across as heavy or dark. An African-American teenager witnessing the shooting of a friend by a police officer is a strong narrative, and it only gets stronger when we are introduced to Starr’s family, and the complications of race politics and inequality. It is important, but happily, it’s more than that. It’s a great story.

I have one more list to go before Christmas – the #voices best of list.

 

Review: Traitor to the Throne

Traitor to the Throne (Rebel of the Sands Book 2) by Alwyn Hamilton

Published by: Faber & Faber (Allen & Unwin Australia)
Released on: February 2 2017
ISBN: 9780571325412

Read: December 23 2016

Trying to defeat your despotic father’s large and powerful army with your small but dedicated band of rebels is a big task. No sooner have you managed to triumph in one part of the country, then a protest in another part is soundly beaten, and you must re-group. This is what faces the Rebel Prince and his band of merry misfits, part-djinn children, and hopeless romantics. They carry a fire, that’s certain, but success is determined by choices, and their youth, inexperience and lack of resources means their task is overwhelming.

Which is why Traitor to the Throne works on many levels.

Amina has developed a lot over the course of the first book. Now aware of her Demdji powers, her confidence is growing. Assured of Jin’s love initially, she is now rethinking their relationship when he keeps his distance, both physically and emotionally. She has meet people who are now her family and her loyalty to them is unrivaled. But there are small disputes among the Rebel Prince’s cohorts. We see Amina and her friends defy his orders, mostly as a counterpoint to the Sultan himself.

For much of the book, Amina, captured and without magic, observes the way Ahmed’s father rules, and there are moments when she almost admires his actions, and herein lies the opportunity for Hamilton to open a conversation on leading and ruling, and the moral ambiguities faced by all people. It’s a little uncomfortable really. We want our villains to be evil, and to have our main character show sympathy for this treacherous man is confronting. During this part of the story, Hamilton dials back on the action, slows the pace, and takes the opportunity to fill the pages with myths and stories of the history of her world. Some readers will love these tangents, while others will rush through them, looking for the excitement and thrill of the inevitable clashes between the opposing forces. While I appreciated Amina’s downtime, I was always preparing myself for the bad times to come (They did. They were.)

There are many new characters introduced, and we lose some dear friends. We also meet up with some who had seemingly been lost to us in the first book. Structurally, Traitor to the Throne is tighter, cleverer, as it builds to its shattering climax. All the pieces seem to be in play now for the final and desperate conclusion to the series. While the first book played on a mash-up of the ‘Old West’ elements inserted into a magical Arabian setting, Traitor to the Throne focuses the tone on a political intrigue genre, with the two sparring armies trying to one-up the other in spying and counter-spying. The stakes are high, and Hamilton deftly highlights how much and how many innocents suffer in war-time.

This advanced copy was approved by Netgalley, via the publisher, and read with thanks. Released everywhere on February 2, 2017.

Recommended for readers who love their fantasy series twisty and complicated. For every one thing where the rebels succeed, there are four more where they don’t, ensuring the rebellion is hard fought. While there are some romantic moments, it’s isn’t a priority, given the characters are more focused on surviving battles and betrayals. The rebel group is diverse, have snarky conversations, and depict true loyalty to Ahmed and each other. The second book in what I believe is a trilogy.

 

Review: Dawn Study by Maria V Snyder

Dawn Study by Maria V Snyder

Published by: Harlequin Teen Australia
Released: February 2^nd 2017
ISBN: 9781848456891

Read: January 20 2017

The final book in the Soulfinders series is complex. I don’t envy Ms Snyder her task to devise all the plotting and planning required to shift this many characters around so many different circumstances and locations. Of course she handled it with surety and ease. I never felt confused or lost. I was able to keep track of Yelena, Leif, and Janco, and even when we met up with Heli and the Stormdancers, there was enough backstory and exposition to assist my understanding without dragging the pace of the narrative.

As is par for the course, Valek and Yelena often separate to complete different tasks or missions, and consequently, readers are often on the edge of their seats as they continually put themselves in danger in order to make sure there’s peace for the other. It’s noble and always been the way with this amazing pair of heroes. Both suffer a great deal in this book, and it wouldn’t be anywhere near as good if the herd had an easy time of it. This battle is hard fought, hard won and worth every minute of the read.

Everyone has a part to play to beat Bruns at his own game. Much about his plans and his allies are revealed through the story, some of it alarming, but it all fits in with the series, right back to the original trio of books (the Study Series). Snyder has created consistent theories, which show her ability to plan for the long term. I am interested to see what she moves on to next. Considering all her books fall in the Chronicles of Ixia series, there’s a good chance there will be more set in this universe. Yay.

Let’s talk a little about the ending. It’s perfect. There, that’s enough, surely. A little more? Okay. Snyder doesn’t rush through the happy scenes. We are given lots of information about all the characters, and most of them end up where we expect and would want them. That does mean there are some farewells and departures, which evoke some tears and sadness.

I very much enjoyed this book and know it will satisfy everyone who has followed Yelena and Valek to this point. Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Teen Australia for advancing me this copy. I have seen at least three different Australian release dates, so I am going to promote the one on the publisher’s site. Released February 2^nd 2017.

Recommended for readers who love their fantasy, with strong world-building, and brave, resilient characters. The relationships are adult, but there is a positive range of ages, from young children through to grandparents who are all determined to do their bit. The banter is snarky, the characters depict diversity, and Snyder affirms that family are chosen as well as determined through blood. Brings this series to a close.

The best of the rest 2016: mostly middle of a series

So I have eight (!) other books that I adored, and they are mostly books that sit comfortably into a popular series. Two are firsts in new series, and another is a contemporary romance that is a feel good story by a developing author. So happy new year! Here is my last best of list 2016 on the 1st day of 2017.

 

Night Study (Soulfinders #2) Maria V Snyder (January 2016)

I have read most of the books set in this universe (except the Glass series), and find them compelling and hopeful. Yelena and Valek are wonderful characters. I love that they could easily be given to adult readers, as they don’t talk down or pander to a young audience. Because I thankfully received it from Netgalley, my review at Goodreads is lengthy (& includes spoilers). I am currently waiting (not so patiently) to be approved for the next one (fingers crossed).

Marked in Flesh (The Others #4) Anne Bishop (March 2016)

I found these by accidentally, and slowly over the course of four novels, I have become very attached to Meg and Simon’s little crew. The pattern of each book is familiar–lots of scenes of domesticity in the compound, while outside narrative voices tell of impending doom. No matter how much the humans who know The Others, try to warn the aggressors, their calls go unheeded and everyone suffers. But mostly those ignorant greedy humans. It’s contemporary politics wrapped up in a carefully controlled, beautifully realised fantasy world.

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices #1) Cassandra Clare (March 2016)

The highly anticipated latest blockbuster from the City of Bones world did not disappoint. It’s epic, it’s detailed, and it’s great storytelling. As much as I liked it, Lady Midnight didn’t make my list of first in a series because secretly, for me, there was just a little bit too much pandering to ‘shippers of couples from previous series. I think we should focus on Emma and her LA posse, and their troubles. Because believe me, they have plenty!! And I just checked and she’s getting the next one out in May 2017. Awesome!

The Unexpected Everything Morgan Matson (May 2016)

This is messy, complicated, and full of tropes, but it’s done in a way that is thorough, warm, and witty, so it’s hard to find fault with it. Andie is the best kind of narrator–generally a nice person, who just has had it too good up till now, to realise her privilege and her self-absorption. When she loses (what she understands to be) everything, her growth is commensurate with her increase in humility, compassion, and generosity. The secondary characters are well developed, and the situations, experiences, and resolution all feel true. I loved this a lot.

A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2) Sarah J Maas (May 2016)

Probably the biggest hit of 2016. I actually read both books this year, which is always better with these epic fantasy novels, involving many characters and plot twists and cliffhanger endings. Sarah J Maas is alternating between two major series, and how she keeps them separate in her head astounds me. Lots of charting and timelines I suspect. Anyway, Feyre is another great character, and her involvement in this immortal war will hopefully mean the awful dudes get what’s coming to them. I am definitely all in for the ride.

The Call Peadar O’Guilin (August 2016)

I thought this was a standalone, but it’s apparently not. More horror than anything else I read, it felt astonishing fresh and incredibly exciting. Dealing with Celtic fey (here known as the Sidhe, pronounced ‘shee’), O’Guilin offers us Nessa, disabled yet stubborn, and full of pride. Her peers are living a nightmare. Any of them (including Nessa) could get ‘the call’ at any time. Disappearing into the world of the Sidhe, they have to survive 24 hours of torture, chasing, wickedness and whatever else these revenging immortals think up. For the people in the ‘real’ world, the whole experience lasts only 2 minutes. This tense taut tale is executed in brazen tones–snark into next week, drama between the teens, mostly useless adult mentors, most of them suffering PDST from their own horrifying encounters, and don’t even ask me how he pulls off that glorious resolution. It’s a killer!

A Torch against the night (An Ember in the Ashes #2) Sabaa Tahir (August 2016)

The importance of world building in paranormal action novels should never be downplayed. It’s crucial that the landscape could exist, and Tahir pulls off this dystopian Ancient Roman alternate history like a pro. There is much reliance on violence to try to curtail the actions of the resistance, but that just makes the story stronger. Our heroes, Laia and Elias, are pulled through some rough circumstances, requiring tough choices, and readers must be prepared for a long haul here, before we see some light. Gosh, it’s good.

Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass #5) Sarah J Maas (September 2016)

The other popular tome of the 2016 clocks in at nearly 700 pages, and to have made it all the way through to that ending requires not only persistence, but also patience with Maas, because I am certain our feisty queen, Aelin, DID NOT  deserve that. You can tell I remain riled up when I ‘caps lock’ text. Luckily we only have to wait a year… I still don’t know how she does it. Two blockbusters a year. Hope she’s getting some sleep.

That’s it for 2016. Hope you’ll join me again soon, for more reviewing, some useful lists, and my anticipated reads for 2017. Have a happy and safe New Year’s Eve. I am off to watch ‘Sing!’

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best of 2016: Historical

Although a novel can be set in a different time, and be regarded as ‘best of’ in another category, there are still three books I read this year that are the best because of their historical context. These authors comment on the ways of the period, but also include a connection to our own time. Reflecting on our time can be valuable when seen though the lens of another. Others that I enjoyed that don’t appear on other lists include: V for Violet and Wolf Hollow.

Front Lines by Michael Grant (March 2016)

Michael Grant gained many fans with his Gone series, and have veered off into a different direction with Soldier Girls. He talks a little about that change in an interview he did for Reading Time. This alternate timeline set in World War II offers a realistic version of a world where females were allowed to fight in the front lines. Grant sticks authentically to many factual events and values of the time period, so there is many examples of sexist, racist and cultural inappropriateness, which of course add to the obstacles standing in the way of our five heroes. The girls come from different socio-economic, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, but they are all determined, brave and intelligent. The story is detailed, absorbing, and does not wimp out on the horrors facing soldiers in wartime.

The Passion of Dolssa by Julie Berry (April 2016)

I loved every bit of this complicated and confronting story set in Medieval France. Its look at the way the Catholic Church dealt with heresy and so-called witches is both gruesome and clever. Berry excels at witty, original characters, and her research is impeccable. I wrote a long gushing review at Reading Time. I cannot recommend this sophisticated, important book enough. It’s amazing.

My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, & Jodi Meadows (September 2016)

Contemporary takes on historical characters and events have been around a while. Inserting zombies into Pride and Prejudice, turning Queen Victoria into a demon hunter, and Lincoln to a vampire slayer has meant that literary classics are fodder for YA updates. Choosing Lady Jane Grey, queen for only 9 days, is an inspired choice for a number of reasons. She isn’t well known, there is real pathos in her short life, and how wonderful is it to recreate history magically to give Jane a happy-ever-after. It’s a bit silly, totally irreverent, and so much fun to read.

On Wednesday my musical high notes will be posted.

Best of 2016: First in a series

There were as many new series started as there were finished in 2016. I am sure many of you can add to this list in the comments with your favourites. I read quite a few (and dnf’ed some of them) so when they all begin to blur into each other, a book that stands out, and makes me wish for the next one will make it to the list. Other ones that just missed out: Lady Midnight, Knights of the Borrowed Dark, & The Girl from Everywhere.

Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton (February 2016)

Just won best debut novel on Goodreads, so that says something about it. I loved the Arabian night style setting, its rebels with many causes, and Amira herself is snarky and brave. The plot twists around and leads us in unexpected directions. Looking for to Number 2, (which I actually already have thanks to Netgalley).

The Road to Winter by Mark Smith (June 2016)

A well crafted Australian post-apocalyptic survival story, set in the not-too-distant-future. Finn is a admirable protagonist, full of resilience and moral character. His attempts to save Rosie and find her missing sister make for a suspenseful, action-packed thriller. Better though is the insightful comments about the direction Australia is heading, and it’s not pretty. Short, tight and worth the fast, furious ride.

The Crown’s Game by Evelyn Skye (July 2016)

Another fantasy novel that is grounded with historical detail, and a strong sense of setting. Imperial Russia has never looked so magical. Nico and Vika know they have to fight for the right to be the only enchanter, and the crown’s game pits them against each other. Of course, there’s a love story, and a third love interest, so it’s all very complicated. But the magic the two create is a highlight in this tense duel to the death.

Come back on Monday when I talk about my favourite historical novels of 2016.