I have no idea when I purchased this book. It’s a bit concerning, honestly. But I was coming off a completely disposable romance novel (look, I respect the crap out of anyone who can and does write a full length novel. However, I feel like I’ve ready 273,802 almost identical ex-SEAL-runs-security-business books), and wanted something different. Described as a “A Dark YA Fae Fantasy,” and with a cover that made me think of Graphic Novels, this unexpected gift from my kindle seemed to fit the bill.
Cassie and her father are both concerned she needs to be committed, like her Aunt Leigh before her. Since her mother passed, she’s been seeing visions of a malevolent white-haired, dark-eyed woman. After a vision caused an attack on a classmate, Cassie’s father sends her to spend the summer with her Grandma on a remote island off the coast of Maine. I have to tell you, I got a real Lois Duncan/ Stranger With My Face sort of vibe from the start of the book (this is a positive thing).
There’s a lot of world/mythology building going on here that I won’t spoil, but the Fae are involved, as are witches, Druids and Old Gods. It’s a really well-woven book, and the inevitable quest has enough to differentiate itself that it feels new and different.
This is great fun, immersive YA fiction in a well-drawn world with a compelling (if stubborn) lead, a well-paced plot, and an overall world I wouldn’t mind spending more time in. There’s space for a sequel, and I hope I’ll get a chance to spend more time with Cassie, Henry and Brynn.
