Firewalker

July 15, 2015
Lily faces new trials against the ever enigmatic Lillian, the monstrous Woven, and, to her surprise, her own morality. Three months after her disappearance from our world in Trial by Fire (2014), Lily re-emerges severely burned, barely alive, and with her Outlander companion, Rowan, in tow. Rowan toils to save his beloved witch, brewing magical concoctions with the help of a bewildered Juliet. While they work, Lily drifts in the Mist and mindspeaks with Lillian, experiencing her enemy's painful memories. Lillian wants Lily to understand why she's become a murderer; she believes her truth will bring Lily over to her side. Old friends seek out Lily, and they're just as drawn to her as her mechanics in the other universe were. This is a boon, since she's soon under attack from the other universe as Lillian realizes only violence will bring her back. Lily learns the hard way that decisions in war aren't so simple and that those she holds dearest will silence her if she dares challenge their beliefs. Much time is devoted to the intricacies of both Lily's and her mechanics' talents, deepening intrigue of the parallel world and its social hierarchies. While Rowan is so nearly perfect readers will tire themselves out wondering when he'll reveal his flaws, Lily's evolution is thrilling, and readers will eagerly follow her into battle, just like her devoted mechanics. A sequel of surprising depth and drama. (Paranormal romance. 14 & up)

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October 1, 2015

Gr 8 Up-This work picks up right where Trial by Fire (Feiwel & Friends, 2014) left off. Lily Proctor has survived the Pyre but is badly burned. She had enough presence of mind to transport herself and Rowan Fall from alternate Salem to her universe so she could heal. While there, characters from the previous volume reappear, including Tristan and Breakfast, along with some newcomers. Lily and Rowan discover they have magic in Lily's world, too, and have to decide if they share the secret of magic. While they are in Lily's world, Lillian, the worldwalking ruler of the 13 Cities, is not content to let Lily go, and she will do what she must to bring her back to alternate Salem because only Lily has the power to save it. Angelini takes readers on a high stakes and fast-paced ride once again. The author blends fantasy, science fiction, mythology, and light romance seamlessly, and this tale will appeal to a broad spectrum of readers. VERDICT A satisfying second series installment that will leave teens anxious for the next title, especially after the cliff-hanger ending.-Stephanie Charlefour, Wixom Public Library, MI

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