Ink and Bone

Starred review from June 22, 2015
In a magical, near-future world where the library at Alexandria never fell and stands as the parent for the Serapeum, or daughter libraries, a supremely powerful body known as the Great Library closely controls all knowledge. Sixteen-year-old Jess Brightwell, born into a family of book smugglers, loves to immerse himself in the rare, forbidden, original volumes, though he doesnât have the heart for the family business. Jessâs father finds another way for him to be of use: Jess is allowed to test for a coveted position in the Library but must agree to help out the family in return. Thus begins his descent into the dangers of discovery, the politics of power, and the wastes of war. Stylistically familiar fantasy elements (an elite school reached by train, magical automata) immerse readers in a world where survival often comes with a steep price. Caineâs (the Morganville Vampires series) elegantly detailed descriptions bring Jessâs world to vivid life in a fast-paced, action-oriented plot that will leave readers breathlessly anticipating not just the next page but the next book in the Great Library series. Ages 14âup. Agent: Lucienne Diver, Knight Agency.

February 15, 2016
Imagine a world in which the library at Alexandria had not fallen and there was no Gutenberg Press, where books are worth more than diamonds, maybe more than life. Only the Great Library might own actual books. Teenager Jess Brightwell, the son of a black-market book smuggler, has a position as a library postulant. If his affiliations are discovered, he'll likely be hanged. But there are others with more dangerous secrets than his. Jess is a terrific character: bright, pragmatic, and, despite his upbringing, capable of empathy. Julian Elfer has a wide vocal range that is heavily used because the Library is staffed by male and female characters from across the globe, encompassing many religions as well as sexual orientations. Elfer keeps the tension tight, and once the story starts moving, it's a wild ride. VERDICT This series launch's creative concept, coupled with tangible descriptions and a dynamic main character, makes this a big winner for both YA and adult fantasy collections.--Jodi L. Israel, Miami, FL

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