Fireborn

October 3, 2016
In this exciting middle installment of the Seraphim trilogy, set in the flying islands that harbor all that’s left of humanity after an apocalyptic event centuries ago, twins Bree and Kael Skyborn become major figures in the conflict brewing between their home of Weshern and the much more powerful Center. Bree comes to terms with her new public renown as the Phoenix, known for her unique ability to ignite her swords in combat, while Kael works to secure new allies and information on behalf of the rebellion. But as resistance turns into open warfare, a much larger threat manifests, forcing everyone to reevaluate their priorities. In the process, the twins discover the true source of their powers and learn the terrible secrets and cost behind humanity’s continued survival. In 2015’s Skyborn, Dalglish introduced a host of appealing concepts such as the flying islands and element-wielding winged warriors; here he reveals additional layers of complexity and wonder, as well as increasingly high stakes. There’s a heavy focus on action-packed aerial combat, and the chaos and conflict escalate with every page, but this fantastical futuristic epic doesn’t skimp on plot development and character moments. Agent: Michael Carr, Veritas Literary Agency.

November 1, 2016
Twins Breanna and Kael are back in Dalglish's exciting sequel to Skyborn (2015), and they're eager to continue defending their fellow Weshern people against the dubious Center forces. Tensions on Weshern are high as the native people cope with the integration of Galen's people after the island's fall. Center's invasion of Weshern was done under the pretense that Weshern was to blame for Galen's destruction, but with their royal family still unjustly imprisoned and the induction of Center's own angelic knights as a police force, many on Weshern suspect deceit, and rebellions are beginning to arise. Religious followers of Johan are demanding answers from the Speaker while members of Weshern's former military are demanding independence, but both groups ultimately want the Skyborn twins to rally their cause as a symbol of hope. Dalglish's writing hits close to home, creating a world of uncertain political climate with dishonest characters and fantastical scenes of warfare. Fans of Skyborn aren't going to want to miss this strong follow-up.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)