In a Dark Land

September 1, 2017

Gr 5-8-After nine long months away from Faerie, Izzy and her sister, Hen, are desperate to return. After saving Faerie from the evil witch Morvanna and discovering Izzy's true identity as a Changeling, the sisters are determined to uncover a path to the magical land and reunite with their friends. While searching the woods at Camp Kitterpines, Good Peter appears and whisks Izzy to Faerie. The joy of reuniting with Selden, Dree, Lug, and the other Changelings is cut short when Izzy learns that Faerie is once again in danger-along with Earth. The witch Rine is bent on ruling over Faerie and Earth alike, and Izzy's true identity may hold the clue that keeps both worlds, and everyone in them, safe from Rine's power. As the friends travel through mountains, forests, and secret caves, Izzy must decide whether she can make the ultimate sacrifice to save those she loves. This well-paced, magical story unfolds with equal parts action and poignant moments that delve further into the land and lore of Faerie. Izzy, Hen, and their lovable friends again take on challenges with wit and shrewd instincts while supporting each other along the way. This sequel necessitates background information from The Changelings, though readers won't be hard pressed to delve into the first and step right into Izzy's next adventure. VERDICT A great choice for fantasy-loving tweens or anyone looking for an exciting story full of heart.-Kelsey Johnson-Kaiser, St. Paul Public Library

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2017
Izzy and her friends must once again band together to overcome an evil plan. Despite the revelation that she is a fairy--a changeling--Izzy decided to return home to her human family at the end of series opener The Changelings (2016). At summer camp with her human, white younger sister, Henrietta, known as Hen, Izzy still misses the magic of the Faerie world and the friends she made there. Summoned to assist in fighting a new danger, Izzy struggles to recapture her magical abilities while fighting familiar feelings of self-doubt. Hen, initially left behind, finds her way to Faerie to help and winds up playing a vital role. Soontornvat's story unfolds smoothly, but readers unfamiliar with the first volume may struggle somewhat to follow the action. Intriguing new elements--most notably the underwater Fen Whelps who reveal a crucial detail to the two sisters--add interest. As in the first book, it's an individual who threatens destruction and cooperation that carries the day. A strong connection to nature, the importance of recognizing and using one's own talents for the greater good, and the importance of family connections, however they are forged, are elements that will enhance the appeal for thoughtful fantasy readers. A fully imagined world, a wider cast of engaging characters, and a satisfying resolution all help this sequel add up to an enjoyable, if not stand-alone, read. (Fantasy. 9-12)

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