Mist, Metal, and Ash

November 15, 2018
The alternate-history thrill ride continues in this sequel to Ink, Iron, and Glass (2018).It's been one month since Leo's betrayal, when he stole the editbook and defected to his father's cause. Fierce, trouser-sporting, revolver-toting, polymathic pazzerellone Elsa has been trying to find a way to reclaim the book, created by her mother and designed to protect Elsa's scribed world of Veldana from European threats. However, it also has the power to edit the real world, making it the most powerful object in existence. Leo's tyrannical father, to whom the ends justify the horrific means, will do anything to unify the four states of Italy, and the editbook will help him do just that. Elsa must convince Leo's father that she wants to join his revolution. The author is a master of character development. The third-person narration, which creates spot-on dramatic irony, alternates between several characters, each with their own struggles. Feelings of guilt, challenges to their personal belief systems, shifting loyalties, and navigation of worlds on the brink of change are complicated but never feel contrived or convoluted. Leo's foster sister, Porzia, is especially compelling, questioning the future she's taken for granted as a member of the privileged class and steward of her family's legacy. People of Veldana, Elsa included, have brown skin, as does alchemy pazzerellone Faraz (also cued as Muslim); assume whiteness for others.Action and adventure with a fearless heroine at the helm. (Fantasy. 12-adult)

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February 1, 2019

Gr 8 Up-In a fantasy version of 19th-century Italy, Elsa must save the world from vengeful destruction by a mad politician-and from accidental destruction by those who mean well. Elsa and her friends each possess a rare skill; together, they are nearly unstoppable. But their friendship is fractured by circumstances. Nonetheless, they must find a way to infiltrate a dangerous rebel stronghold, find a stolen book, and rescue Leo, the friend who appears to have betrayed them. Leo, for his part, must determine how to win back the trust of his friends while keeping his brother and power-hungry father at bay. This fast-paced sequel to Ink, Iron, and Glass dives deep into issues around trust and commitment. A major theme is independence, including the right of individuals to choose their own path even if it involves risk. This novel is likely to be incomprehensible as a stand-alone, but it's a satisfying sequel. VERDICT Purchase where the previous volume is popular.-Sheri Reda, Wilmette Public Library, IL

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