The Offering

Gr 9 Up—Those who haven't read the previous titles in the "Pledge" series (S & S) will be hard-pressed to jump into this trilogy's conclusion. Charlie of Ludania is still recovering from Queen Elena of Astonia's assassination attempt and trying to bring about change in her flawed realm. In an attempt to facilitate peace with Astonia, the young ruler has sent Niko (Sabara's ancient lover) and Xander on a diplomatic mission to Queen Elena-with catastrophic results. When the Astonian monarch sends Charlie a secret note that details a way in which the protagonist might avert the impending war between their queendoms, Charlie decides-rather foolishly-to take matters into her own hands. This novel tackles too many subjects: Charlie's love affair with Max, her relationship with her sister, the attempt to reinvigorate Ludania's technological and scientific achievements, and more. Despite all these trajectories, none are nuanced enough to propel the story. Instead, the plotlines feel like sidebars in a conversation that's mostly about a young queen trying to act like a warrior and embarking on an ill-advised attempt to end a war. The class division in her country-which was a major theme of the first two books-is not addressed sufficiently. Though character development is light, there are no shrinking violets in this title; Derting offers a cast of strong, independent women, which will entice young readers hungry for powerful female role models. Despite this, those who enjoyed the first two installments may find this conclusion too fractured.—Heather M. Campbell, formerly at Philip S. Miller Library, Castle Rock, CO