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Daughter of Light and Dark
Daughter of Light and Dark, set in the fantastical kingdom of Rafah, is a compelling YA fantasy novel by author Ahlam Faris. The book introduces readers to Mina, a young woman with the rare ability to see Jinn without the aid of a ring. Protected by her mother, who guards this secret fiercely, Mina’s life takes a tragic turn when a devastating fire leaves her orphaned. Years later, accompanied by the enigmatic Jinn Lord of Chains, Ashrush, Mina returns to her childhood home in search of a stolen artifact belonging to her mother. This quest not only reveals the truth of her origins but also sets her on a path to save the Rafah Kingdom.
Mina’s journey of self-discovery unfolds against a backdrop of magical beings, including the Jinn and Ifrits, in a world on the brink of collapse. As the Veil that separates the realms begins to tear, Mina emerges as the potential savior of her kingdom. Faris crafts a richly detailed world filled with intricate lore and a plot that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
The story is successful in its world-building and offers a tantalizing hint of romance amidst the action. The characters that populate Mina’s world add depth to her development, particularly the mysterious Ashrush, her childhood friend Saif, and the noble Prince Zyed. Despite the mounting tension and violence from the fanatical rebel group, the Nonbelievers, these characters bring moments of levity to the story. I would love to have seen an expansion of the history of the fascinating Jinn and their descent into the human realm.
Daughter of Light and Dark is a promising debut with its engaging plot and richly imagined world, it is a worthy addition to the young adult fantasy genre, and Ahlam Faris is an author to add to any fantasy fan’s must-read list.
Pages: 291 | ASIN : B0D2S1LGQF
The Tower (Legend of the Heartstone)
In The Tower: Legend of the Heartstone, author E. Webb invites readers into the mystical world of Azendor through the eyes of Ena Novak. On her 16th birthday, Ena is drawn to a mysterious tower in her town, marking the beginning of her journey into a magical realm she had always believed existed. This young adult fantasy novel uniquely portrays Ena’s quest for independence from her overbearing mother, prompting readers to ponder if Azendor can truly offer her the sanctuary she seeks.
E. Webb’s narrative stands out in the realm of young adult fantasy. Ena is an atypical heroine, characterized by her optimism and dreaminess, setting her apart from the more commonly encountered realistic protagonists in this genre. Her journey through Azendor, while revealing the harsher aspects of this new world, remarkably doesn’t erode her intrinsic values. This aspect of her character development resonates with readers, making Ena a particularly engaging protagonist.
At its onset, the story appears to mirror traditional princess tales, with an obedient daughter longing for a life beyond her current confines and a determined mother chasing her own unrealized aspirations. However, as the plot progresses, it deftly subverts these expectations. The story’s rising action and unfolding mystery effectively disrupt any sense of predictability. Webb’s intricate world-building, the introduction of a diverse cast from various realms, and the gradual piecing together of the overarching enigma significantly distinguish The Tower as a noteworthy addition to the genre.
While the book might seem to tread familiar territory initially, its capacity to continually surprise readers, including those well-versed in young adult fantasy, is commendable. The novel concludes with a setup for a sequel, skillfully bringing the story full circle and leaving readers eagerly anticipating Ena’s next adventure. The Tower (Legend of the Heartstone) is a recommendable read for fans of young adult fantasy, offering a fresh perspective in a well-loved genre and promising a series that could captivate readers for years.
Pages: 389 | ASIN : B0CC5XSWWH
Benjamin Impossible: The Helium Heist
Timothy Root’s Benjamin Impossible: The Helium Heist is a captivating narrative that follows the adventures of twelve-year-old protagonist Benjamin Impossible. Tasked with a mission to retrieve his father’s groundbreaking hyper-helium invention from NASA, Benjamin, accompanied by a robotic dog and his exceptionally intelligent younger brother Charlie, embarks on an exhilarating journey. The story unfolds in a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, featuring a flying houseboat and a plethora of high-tech gadgets that aid Benjamin in his quest.
The novel is a thrilling blend of humor and adventure, striking a chord with a younger demographic, particularly boys. It cleverly incorporates elements of humor akin to that found in “Captain Underpants” and the thrilling escapades reminiscent of “Secret Agent 6th Grader”. Root’s narrative thrives on its unpredictability and relatable character logic, making scenarios like a cheese whiz twinkie wiener sandwich seem entirely rational. Root’s vibrant storytelling is visually stimulating, suggesting it would transition well into an animated series or film. An innovative touch is the integration of QR codes linking to free audiobook chapters, an acknowledgment of diverse reading preferences, and a nod to the digital age.
Benjamin Impossible: The Helium Heist is an engaging and humorous read, particularly appealing to middle-grade children seeking a blend of humor, adventure, and imagination. Timothy Root’s keen understanding of his audience shines through, promising a read that is as entertaining as it is relatable. This book is an invitation to a world where adventure awaits at every turn, and the impossible is merely a challenge waiting to be overcome.
Pages: 322 | ASIN : B0CRQPNV9P
LITERARY TITAN 