Shadowfell

Starred review from August 6, 2012
For those who wish that Tolkien had explored the character of Aragorn more deeply, Marillier (the Sevenwaters trilogy) provides the next best thing. Flint, unlike Strider, is younger than he looks, but he’s every bit as skillful. On the day the narrator, 15-year-old Neryn, loses her last connection to family and home, Flint is there to extricate her from disaster and set her on the path of destiny, no longer a victim but an agent in the struggle against a
cruel king who has twisted and poisoned his realm. How much of an agent Neryn might be, only Flint and the Good Folk, the fae, seem to guess. Marillier presents a classic quest in the high fantasy tradition, but there are no noble warriors to be found in this first book in a planned trilogy. Neryn’s gifts lie in seeing, listening, and asking, and the turning points are marked by belief, not battles. The land of Alban is not a comfortable place, Flint is not a comforting man, and Neryn is up to the challenges of both. Ages 12–up. Agent: Russell Galen, Scovil Galen Ghosh Literary Agency.

Narrator Henrietta Meire's soft, gentle voice is well suited to the mild temperament of this YA fantasy's heroine and showcases her growth. In the tale, Neryn must partner with the Good Folk and a mysterious young man to save herself and her country. Meire portrays each of the characters in the secret rebel group in a compelling way, revealing their determination, as well as Flint's kind heart and King Keldec's evil intentions. Neryn's meek voice reflects her vulnerability and initial lack of confidence. Meire uses her skills to lead listeners through Neryn's personal growth, building in passion throughout the chapters as Neryn transforms from a homeless daughter to a determined heroine. J.O. � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine