Advent

Starred review from April 16, 2012
Debut novelist Treadwell ties together the fear and wonder of magic and adolescence in this revealing tale of age-old ambition clashing with newfound identity. Gavin, a troubled 15-year-old suspended from school after admitting he sees ghosts, takes holiday with his aunt Gwen, housekeeper for an ancient Cornish estate, Pendurra. Infused with the enchantment of forgotten places, Pendurra attracts other people who bear witness, involuntarily and at a cost, to otherworldly presences. When powerful artifacts crafted by Johannes Faust, the last magus, appear at Pendurra, the stage is set for Gavin and friends to uncover the secrets of their own heritage while attempting to deal with the return of magic and to thwart the resurrected Faust. Treadwell makes marvels from the simplest materials—a blooming rose, a rowan walking stick, a traditional carol—and brings his landscape to frightening and fascinating life. Readers of Susan Cooper and Alan Garner will rejoice to find the first of a new trilogy worthy of sharing their shelf. Agent: Will Francis, Janklow & Nesbit.