Raven Flight

Gr 8 Up—In this sequel to Shadowfell (Knopf, 2012), Neryn has carved out an existence among the residents of the rebel outpost. War against tyrannical King Keldec is imminent, and Neryn's Caller powers will be crucial to victory. To complete her training, the heroine must continue to seek valuable knowledge from the magical Guardians of Alban. But convincing them to help won't be easy. Moreover, Neryn continues to be haunted by both the extent of her powers and her feelings for double-agent Flint. Reluctantly accompanied by the prickly warrior, Tali, and assisted by magical beings called Good Folk, Neryn embarks on a treacherous mission that, ultimately, will change her life. Raven Flight is just as much a personal journey as a physical one in that Marillier devotes the bulk of the text to character development. The first-person narrative gives an intimate glimpse into the protagonist's inner life, and readers will appreciate how Neryn and Tali grow because of each other's company. Vivid settings and exquisite prose combine to make this novel a winner. Fans of Shadowfell will devour it and eagerly anticipate the trilogy's concluding volume.—Alissa J. Bach, Oxford Public Library, MI