Exile

xxpish - Sophie Foster feels safe. She is at Havenfield, a year after moving into the magical elf world and settling in with her adoptive parents. Then something incredible happens-Sophie finds the first female alicorn in the elven world! The alicorn, Silveny, has just been given a new home in Havenfield and it is up to Sophie to train her. Also, surprisingly, Silveny can transmit thoughts into Sophie's head. As Sophie starts receiving messages from a mysterious organization called The Black Swan, she starts noticing strange things and people are starting to think that she is defective. After a trip to Exile with Alden goes awry, it is up to Sophie to figure all the mysteries out. In a tale as magical as the first, Exile is sure to keep readers waiting for the conclusion to Shannon Messenger's epic debut series. My thoughts: Exile was incredible. there were so many problems and troubles that Sophie has to face, and it is truly incredible how she handles all that weight on her back. So much is expected from her because she is technically a "super-elf" but she stills makes everyone proud. She is unbelievable! I love Shannon's way of writing; she makes you paint a picture of the story in your head. I thought the book was just a little long, with some parts I thought slowed the plot down, but other than that it was definitely a keeper! Hahahaha. Get it? I also love how Shannon had an alicorn in the story. Silveny is just such a fun character, and I bet she had a wonderful time writing her. All the danger and suspense in the story is very exciting, and the plot twists and turns keep you loving it 'till the end. Keep writing, Shannon Messenger! Your stories will be loved! Overall: 8.8 out of 10 Stars

March 1, 2014

Gr 5-8-This sequel to Keeper of the Lost Cities (S & S, 2012) continues the story of Sophie Foster, the girl who was brought up as human but who is really an elf with engineered DNA, which has conferred enormous power on her. She now lives with the elves in Havenfield, and has been adopted by a couple whose daughter died. Sophie tries to integrate into the elf community and be a regular kid at school. Her powers of telepathy and psychic healing, however, set her firmly apart as she helps to capture and train a unique alicorn (one with wings). As the mystery of the Black Swan group and their true allegiance continues, Sophie tries to help heal the broken minds of certain elves crucial to uncovering the secret. Clearly the middle book in a series, this title works best for readers familiar with the first book. There is plenty of action, but the story of Sophie's origins, the Black Swan and their role, and the struggle to save the world of the elves does not progress significantly. This installment lacks the sense of urgency and emotional connection of the first title.-Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

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