When the Stars Threw Down Their Spears

Starred review from June 15, 2013
This final installment in the Goblin Wars fantasy trilogy is a corker! The quest of the Wylltson family concludes with unrelenting suspense and a neat (but not pat) resolution. The book opens in Teagan's high school cafeteria, where she declares war on Queen Mab. Protected by the magic of the dying faerie world, Mag Mell, Teagan, Aiden and Finn are on their way to the final confrontation, while their family and friends in Chicago defend our Earth. Depth of characterization is a great strength: Each person's motivation is clear and brings believability to the narrative. Tension builds exponentially with each discovery, near-capture and skirmish. The war between humans and goblins is not pretty: There's a lot of bloodletting and dying, and not all of it is on the side of the goblins. Hamilton balances this dark content with snappy dialogue and the humorous juxtaposition of the mundane artifacts of the 21st century against the magic of the Sidhe. And although the resolution is ultimately satisfying, some well-loved characters do not survive. The author has her own take on Irish mythology, which she sustains with worldbuilding and the consistent nature of magic in both worlds. This spectacular conclusion will satisfy fans and lead new readers into a complex world with fascinating magic and appealing characters. (Urban fantasy. 14-18)

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February 1, 2014

Gr 9 Up-This third entry in the fantasy series finds 17-year-old Teagan Wylltson at the scene of a goblin's demise in the high school cafeteria. The series is set in modern-day Chicago, but the story is based on ancient Irish myths and legends. Tea declares war on the Queen of the Sidhe and is joined by her cousin/boyfriend, Irish Traveler Finn, and five Italians. There is a host of other characters, some of them otherworldly and whom only she and a few select individuals can see. This battle involves the Mag Mell, a world between worlds. Tea has to find a way to protect her family while destroying the evil that threatens to ruin her world. Endearing characters, fast-paced action, and an engaging heroine make this conclusion to the trilogy another good read for fans.-Kathy Kirchoefer, Henderson County Public Library, NC

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