Crown of Embers: The Fire and Thorns Trilogy, Book 2

Gr 8 Up—The skirmish with Inviernos is over, but Chosen One Queen Lucero-Elisa's struggles continue. King Alejandro is dead, leaving Elisa sole ruler until Prince Rosario comes of age. Additionally, she has yet to fulfill—or even understand—the destiny that awaits her at the enemy's gates. Surviving Inviernos Animagi covet her godstone's powers, and her own people doubt her ability to fulfill her royal duties. Worse, there's a traitor in her midst. Fleeing both suitors and assassins, and inspired by a forgotten religious text, Elisa embarks on a quest to find the mythical Zafira, the source of her godstone's powers and the gate of life. But this journey won't be easy. In the second book (2012) in her trilogy, Carson proves adept at building beautifully imaginative worlds and populating them with rich and complex characters. Narrator Jennifer Ikeda is equally proficient at bringing these worlds and their inhabitants to life. Unfortunately, this sequel doesn't conjure the same magic as Girl of Fire and Thorns (2011, both Greenwillow). Although war is a main plot point, Elisa's attitude towards it feels too detached for one who lost so much. Also, Elisa's overall behavior—indecisive, vulnerable, insecure—seems a step backward from the immense strength she gained in the previous book. The leisurely meandering plot and unresolved sexual tension between Elisa and Hector will likely frustrate action-hungry listeners. A cliffhanger will have listeners awaiting the finale.—Alissa Bach, Oxford Public Library, MI