"The Otherwhere Post" by Emily J. Taylor

The Otherwhere Post (Feb. 25, 2025) by Emily J. Taylor.

<This is a standalone novel.>

It’s been seven years since Inverly was lost and the Written Doors were destroyed. Maeve Abenthy became an orphan and was sent to the Sacrifict Orphanage, where she took a different name to avoid being associated as the daughter of a murderer, the “world killer.” Now 18 years old, Maeve has received a letter that’s seven years old. She has no idea who’s sent it, but it declares that, “Your father was innocent.” To uncover the truth, she dupes her way into Leyland’s College of Scriptomantic Arts, which houses the Otherwhere Post’s headquarters in Leyland, and becomes a courier apprentice to an infuriating mentor who’s handsome under his ink-splattered wardrobe. Tristan Byrne has secrets of his own. But it’s here that Maeve – attending as Eilidh Hill – will learn scriptomancy, “the art of enchanting any piece of existing handwriting, from a penned novel to a scribbled grocery list.” Couriers are able to enchant letters and deliver them to other worlds. Finding the sender of the anonymous letter will prove tricky and not least because she’s not yet a scriptomancer. Someone is threatening her, and although arcane magic isn’t infinite, it still has the power to do irreparable harm or even kill. She’s spent these seven years moving around and never letting anyone close to her. Her roommate at the Post, Nan Ferro, is determined that they will be friends and has the outgoing nature to persevere. Nan’s mentor, Shea Widden (she hails from a rich family which owns buildings across Leyland and Barrow, another of the known worlds), also has no problem counting Maeve as a friend. Tristan could be a friend, too ... or more, but Maeve doesn’t need friends. Because then their lives will be in danger, and she’ll have to share her biggest secret.

            Having loved the author’s previous YA novel, I expected to be enthralled by this YA dark fantasy that steps into a world of dark academia and does contain a multiverse. And enthralled I am by the ingenuity of a story that’s part mystery and a little bit romance. Taylor is a builder of worlds that I feel like I could easily live in. My only needle with the story is in Maeve’s underhandedness in landing an apprenticeship. I get that her character is desperate for answers, but that doesn’t make her deceit copacetic. Fortunately, the story, much like I’d expect scribing to be, is complex in its plotting and its characters. The mystery is high-stakes with the adventure rush-hour and perilous. The magical fantasy tale dazzles, the banter delights, and Taylor’s world-building is detailed without being convoluted. It was hard to put down. I loved it.

            Also from the author: Hotel Magnifique

Rutabaga's Reads 2025: Part 17

My third young-adult (YA) compilation post for this year features The Gilded Wolves trilogy. Prior to this YA set, I’d only read middle-grade books written by the author.

The Gilded Wolves (Jan. 15, 2019) by Roshani Chokshi.

<This is the first novel in a trilogy.>

The wealthy hotelier of L’Eden is a treasure seeker, heir of House Vanth, which was declared a dead line 10 years ago. Séverin Montagnet-Alarie wants his House back. In order to reclaim his birthright, he needs the Babel Fragment for the Order of Babel. To help him is a diverse group of rapscallions: Laila is an Indian cabaret dancer whose ability to read unforged objects that she touches has a sinister backstory, Zofia is a Jewish engineer kicked out of university for being Jewish with a Forging affinity for solid matter (mostly metals and crystals), Tristan Maréchal is Séverin’s brother-in-arms with a Forging affinity for liquid matter (specifically, that present in plants) who has an enormous pet tarantula named Goliath, and Enrique Mercado-Lopez is a Filipino historian banished from his home who wishes he could Forge, but no ability manifested by his thirteenth birthday. Helping with the heist is Hypnos, patriarch of House Nyx, the son of Haitian slaves and a French aristocrat, who, for all of his handsome bluster, really could use some good friends. They’re going to pull off a grand heist that’ll place them all in danger.  They need the Horus Eye, which mysterious rival Roux-Joubert does not want them to have, but to find the Fragment, they will need to locate Fallen House’s meeting place, and no one knew of it even before it was Fallen and had an actual name. Séverin wants the Fragment to become patriarch of the House he grew up in, but the Fragment can wield unimaginable power. Perhaps, even, the power of godhood, but they might lose themselves and break the world in the process.

            Having read Chokshi’s six middle-grade novels from the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, I decided I was overdue to try one of her YA novels. The first in The Gilded Wolves trilogy is a YA fantasy with an alternate, magical history that’s tantalizingly dark yet extravagant, multiethnic and inclusive. It’s a confection of sumptuous prose, glittering (mis)adventure and dazzling imagination. The story is evocative and immersive, the characters devilishly charming, and the writing smartly takes on colonialism and cultural appropriation without bogging the story down. We’ve got societal outcasts saving the world, and I expect it’s going to be epic.

            Favorite line: “Secrets keep my hair lustrous.” --Séverin, p. 13

The Silvered Serpents (Sept. 22, 2020) by Roshani Chokshi.

<This is the middle novel in a trilogy.>

<Alert: Potential spoilers ahead.>

The Fallen House has been thwarted, but it’s come at a terrible price. It haunts all of them, Séverin most of all. He’s obsessed with finding The Divine Lyrics, a legendary book which would grant him immortality and godlike powers. Laila seeks it also, but she’s kept her true reason for wanting it a secret. They all think the garnet ring Zofia Forged for her is counting down the days until her birthday, which it is, but it’s way more than that. Séverin, Laila (acting as his mistress), Enrique (a historian), Zofia and Hypnos (House Nyx patriarch) miraculously calculate the coordinates of the Sleeping Palace near Lake Baikal in Siberia, Russia. They go with Delphine Desrosiers, matriarch of House Kore, Ruslan Goryunov the Bald, patriarch of House Dazbog, which historically trades “in secrets and parchment,” and Eva Yefremovna, “blood Forging artist of impeccable skill” and Ruslan’s cousin. The Sleeping Palace is a near-forgotten mansion of crystalline, ice-Forged animals, broken Muses, mutilated statues without hands and a string of unsolved murders. Secrets are carried by ghosts of the past, and they’re coming to light. The path is gilded with diamonds and treasure, but it’s also inlaid with freezing cold and booby traps.

            The middle novel in The Gilded Wolves trilogy is alluringly dark and dangerous, exquisitely grand and glamorous. The center YA fantasy is a complex filling of smart writing, detailed worldbuilding and epic plotting, making what could be thorny and overwhelming into a story that’s fluid and graceful, even in its horrific moments. Chokshi doesn’t simply place words on the pages willy-nilly, but with the distinct skill of an artisan. It is sleek and diverse, but beware, it’s sometimes bloody, too.

The Bronzed Beasts (Sept. 21, 2021) by Roshani Chokshi.

<This is the final novel in a trilogy.>

<Alert: Potential spoilers ahead.>

Godhood is coming, Séverin Montagnet-Alarie can feel it, but the group is fractured. Séverin has seemingly betrayed his friends: Enrique Mercado-Lopez, Hypnos Leclair, Zofia Boguska and Laila. Laila thinks the others are dead until they stir to life, and Hypnos’ face falls when he sees the Mnemo bug smashed. Without those clues, they must locate Delphine Desrosiers’ safe house and wend their way through the twisted waterways of Venice on their own. They will find each other, Séverin is determined that this will be so. He’s in possession of the Divine Lyre, and he’s balancing the unhinged whims of Ruslan Goryunov, Patriarch of the Fallen House. They know that the location of the temple where the Divine Lyre can be played is Poveglia (a.k.a. Plague Island), but they don’t know how to access the temple. Laila’s time is winding down. 10 days and counting and already there are times where she can’t feel – not the breath in her, sometimes not even a cut deep enough to cause blood to course down her arm. There are gondola rides on the canal, cemeteries, hidden masquerade balls (courtesy of House Janus), explosions (courtesy of Zofia), siren skeleton songs and shining ziggurat steps. There’s making and unmaking, possible remaking, and there’s always a price to pay.

            Readers return to the darkly alluring, intriguing world in the final installment in The Gilded Wolves trilogy. It’s a beautiful YA fantasy with sparkles and blood, elegance and manipulation, love and angst, mythology and realism, fantastical truths and harsh realities. “The Bronzed Beasts” wraps up a dazzling and dangerous treasure hunt with clues, introspection, history, diversity and inclusion. There’s colorism and its lasting effects on their characters, though readers see that all of these main characters are beloved and worthy of love. To immerse oneself in this trilogy is to have one’s heart wrenched, feel the enduring power of emotion and laugh aloud at Hypnos’ comic relief. What a compelling farewell to a masterfully-imagined, thoughtful fantasy series.

"Children of Anguish and Anarchy" by Tomi Adeyemi

Children of Anguish and Anarchy (June 25, 2024) by Tomi Adeyemi.

<This is the final novel in a trilogy.>

<Alert: Potential spoilers ahead.>

Torturous pain and puddles of blood punctuate Zélie Adebola’s existence since she and so many were captured. The monarchy was felled, the magi had overcome the tîtáns, and it felt like Orïsha could rebuild with magi safely at the helm. Instead, they are far from Orïsha’s shores, trapped in cages, starving, tortured and dying at the hands of warriors with iron skulls, led by King Baldyr. He’s a man obsessed with harnessing Zélie’s magic and has ravaged the lands trying to find her. Allies are necessary for everyone if Orïsha is to become home again. Inan Olúborí goes with a group of magi. As a tîtán, he is not tolerated well, but he must find a way to unite the groups lest the remaining people be destroyed. Meanwhile, Zélie, Tzain (her brother) and Amari (Inan’s sister) go another direction to find the other person Baldyr seeks, hoping to reach her before he does. What now resides over Zélie’s heart has returned her powers – they’re different but they’re there – and enables her to return the gifts of others, but none of them are yet free. The Blood Moon nears, as does the king who hunts her.

            Pushing beyond the battles and bloodshed rises a varied people – magi, tîtáns and soldiers (the most latter without any magic) – ready to give their lives so that the survivors can make their homeland home again. The fantasy landscape is earthshaking and captivating, the emotion is deep and raw, the bravery of Zélie and her allies is mighty and inspiring. The story’s brutality is devastating and traumatic, but it cannot overwhelm the strength of one’s roots nor the beauty of their courage. This expansive journey is epic.

            Legacy of Orïsha Book One: Children of Blood and Bone

            Legacy of Orïsha Book Two: Children of Virtue and Vengeance

Rutabaga's Reads 2025: Part 7

Hello! Here I am with my second middle-grade (MG) compilation post of 2025. Do you read MG novels? Why or why not?

Isle of Ever (Mar. 25, 2025) by Jen Calonita.

<This is the first novel in a series.>

They manage to squeak on by, but 12-year-old Everly “Benny” Benedict and her mom are broke most of the time. Imagine their surprise when a lawyer shows up, looking for Benny. He informs her that she’s heir to the vast fortune of Evelyn Terry, a mysterious ancestor from the 1800s! How she knew that Benny would exist in 2025 is anybody’s guess, but this news is amazing and possibly too good to be true. In order to actually obtain the inheritance, she has to play a game following Evelyn’s clues and win it. She must find Evelyn’s Island, which doesn’t exist on any map. It’s been 200 years since Evelyn found it, and she watched it disappear during a Blood Orange Moon. Always having moved so often, Benny’s finally found two friends in Zara Dabney and Ryan Gale. She’s going to need their help. The puzzle may have been waiting two centuries for her to come along, but she’s only got two weeks to solve it! If she doesn’t, a rival family can buy out the Terry estate shares (the Rudd family also exists during Evelyn’s time), and Benny and her mom will go back to scraping by. Benny loves puzzles, so Benny knows she can win. She’s determined to!

            In this genre-bending, middle-grade series starter, red herrings and a major cliffhanger enhance this tale. It’s absorbing from the beginning, a fantasy adventure that’s part mystery that also blends in history and a dash of magic. The magical nature doesn’t get carried away. In fact, the realistic depictions of Benny’s preteen moodiness and sometimes frustration with her mom ground the story. The contemporary timeline is interspersed with Evelyn’s journal entries, newspaper clippings and other notes. The first in the Isle of Ever series features an engaging, puzzle-centric quest in a fast-paced storyline seamlessly bridging the past with the present.

Pahua and the Dragon’s Secret (Sept. 10, 2024) by Lori M. Lee.

<This is the second novel in a series.>

<Alert: Potential spoilers ahead.>

She’s the reincarnation of Shee Yee, known as the greatest warrior of all time and graced with athletic finesse. In the here and now, she’s Pahua Moua, a skinny 11-year-old with about zero athletic grace and no warrior training. Pahua has the chance to attend a shaman school in Minnesota to receive proper training, but she must first fulfill a quest. She has to repair the second seal that imprisons Xov, the god of thunder, destruction and wrath. To do that, she must retrieve metallic dragon scales, find the hidden prison and transmute successfully. That’d be a remarkable challenge for a trained shaman warrior, but for the untrained Pahua? Yikes! She’s got her trusted-but-sarcastic cat spirit, Miv, and tough-but-bratty, shaman-in-training friend Zhong. Pahua encounters a rooster spirit called Rou, and they meet Yulong in the Land of Dragons, which doesn’t go so smoothly at first (Zhong tries to kill him). They find the truth stone, which has significance to their journey, though it isn’t known right away, and Zhong becomes unhealthily fanatic about it. Pahua understands that magic is circular, but that doesn’t make knowing that she’ll have to give an equally powerful sacrifice in return any easier.

            If being a preteen is tricky, then being the preteen reincarnation of a great warrior is dangerously tricky. The danger doesn’t overwhelm the characters’ wit. This second in the contemporary, fantasy adventure, Hmong-mythology-filled, Pahua Moua series is imbued with fast pacing, clever plotting, imaginative world-building and an excellent cast. Her love of her family is visible, and her self-doubt only makes her more relatable. Lee’s Pahua stories are steeped in culture and abundant in meaning, but are also entertaining adventures to read. While I’ve enjoyed every story I’ve read from the Rick Riordan Presents imprint – and I’ve read many of them – Lee’s stories are definite standouts. Go forth, readers, and be the brave, fierce warriors that life needs you to be. Just beware of the phim nyuj vais. That demon wants to feast on your intestines.

            Book One: Pahua and the Soul Stealer

Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares (Aug. 3, 2021) by Tehlor Kay Mejia.

<This is the middle novel in a trilogy.>

<Alert: Potential spoilers ahead.>

Six months have passed since La Llorona, and Paola Santiago would never have guessed that life would be what it is now. She’s barely speaking to her best friends, Dante Mata and Emma Lockwood. Dante seems to resent Paola in a big, big way, and Emma is busy with the Rainbow Rogues, a school group. Her mom is distracted by her blond-haired boyfriend. At least Paola has her loyal chupacabra puppy, Bruto, but Bruto can’t fend off the nightmares that have returned. Paola finds herself in a forest of nightmares – sometimes with multiple pairs of watching eyes – and at its center is her estranged father. He’s more of an enigma, as she hardly remembers him. Dante’s abuela (Señora Mata) has even shown up in her dreams and knows her as Maria (that’s Paola’s mom). When Señora Mata falls mysteriously ill, she barely convinces Dante to go on a search for her father to help Dante’s grandmother. She gains an ally – albeit a sarcastic one – in a lone Niña and a sweet duendecillo called Estrella. She’ll need all the help she can get, because fighting El Autostopisto alone will be impossible, and she has to somehow get from Arizona to Oregon on the funds of a 12-year-old (so, she’s mostly broke). There are new and terrifying monsters to clash with, a devastating betrayal to bear and a nightmare forest to confront. At the end of it all, is the man in her dreams really her father? Or a nightmare wearing his face?

            Mejia draws on her Mexican heritage for the second entry in the Paola Santiago series. It’s a story filled with magic and folklore and is layered with realistic concerns that can surround minorities in dealing with police and healthcare and real-life drama within friend groups (though likely without magically transforming Arma del Almas). Paola’s drive to find her father makes this a fast-paced, paranormal fantasy, middle-grade story. She’s got heart, but also sass, and she’s clever, but also makes mistakes. The tale can be mysteriously spooky and fabulously courageous and is incredibly, emotionally honest.

            Book One: Paola Santiago and the River of Tears

Rutabaga's Reads 2025: Part 5

We’re almost halfway through 2025, and here I am with only the first picture books compilation of the year. I’ve read many picture books already – including with/to my nephew – but I clearly haven’t been reviewing them consistently.

The Book That Can Read Your Mind (Mar. 12, 2024) by Marianna Coppo.

This is no ordinary book. As you can gather from the title, it’s a magical one. Lady Rabbit welcomes all “prestigious readers” to her show. Instead of pulling a rabbit out of a hat, she considers pulling an old guy out of her hat, but she concludes that that’s not convincing enough. It’s not magical enough. Eventually, Lady Rabbit elects to read our minds. Look at the members of the audience. Choose one and only one. Who’d you pick? Keep it to yourself and turn to the page as directed. TA-DA! Did she get it right? I dare you to go back and try again. Did you trick her that time?

            Inspired by a 17^th-century magic book and with vintage-style illustrations, this interactive story is modern-day, enchanting and fun. There are multiple choices, so readers can play again and again. It’s an experience and a magic trick all in a picture book. Although one-trick, it’s an ingenious story idea that absolutely works. Let’s get on with the show!

A Chest Full of Words (Mar. 18, 2025) by Rebecca Gugger & Simon Röthlisberger.

   Tim Mohr, translator.

There is a magnificent treasure chest, but the treasure within isn’t gold or jewels. There are words! Oscar doesn’t initially recognize the words as treasure. He tosses fluorescent aside and rather upsets a hedgehog scampering by, as its now a fluorescent yellow. He slaps another word on another object (an old oak with a new hairdo never before looked so fabulous). He’s soon flinging words about with abandon. But then he runs out of words. He’s … wordless. Oscar goes in search of new words, but no one has any good advice until he talks to Louise. She likes to keep words handy, reminding him that they can be found anytime and anywhere.

            “Words have magical powers. Use them with care and you can make the world blossom,” says Louise to Oscar. This story, with its whimsical, softly colorful, earthy illustrations is inventive, wholesome, original, playful and word-tastic. The story, a Swiss import, is vocabulary-centric, unique, eye-opening, ear-catching and absorbing. It makes adjectives the centerpiece of the story and will engage young readers, even if they don’t understand all of the words. Words are magic. They can transport readers by painting pictures with words.

Danbi’s Favorite Day (Apr. 25, 2023) by Anna Kim.

<This is a sequel story.>

It’s not her birthday. It’s not Halloween, but still, it’s Danbi’s favorite day! She’s hosting a Children’s Day party, a day that she tells her friends is the day “all your wishes come true!” After she invites her friends, she exclaims that there will be kites and magic castles, and they’ll only eat chocolate chip cookies! Her mommy reminds her that “it’s about celebrating all the children on Earth who will one day lead the world.” She encourages Danbi to host her friends at the deli, as both her parents need to work that day. She’s told that rain is in the forecast, but she is adamant that she wants a picnic outside. When it happens as her mom said, will the weather get her down? Or will she be reminded that, “We were the children of the world?”

            This follow-up to “Danbi Leads the School Parade” is a delightful concoction of Korean heritage, diversity, inclusivity, family, friendship and the power of creativity. It’s a celebration of children. The story’s beautifully detailed illustrations in their warm, neutral tones see splashes of color from the author-illustrator and complement the text like your favorite food combinations. This picture book is joyful, fun and full of youthful energy.

            Starts with: Danbi Leads the School Parade

We Are Immigrants (Sept. 17, 2024) by Carolina Fernandez.

   Alyssa M. Gonzalez, illustrator.

Immigrants. They’ve traveled from near. They’ve traveled from far. Their journeys are all different, their skin tones “a rainbow of kings and of queens,” their hair anywhere from pin-straight to super curly, they may pray differently from you, and their languages may be unlike any you’ve ever heard. But a language everyone can understand is the language of kindness and love. Other cultures mean a plethora of new food to taste and enjoy. Just like you, they have traditions that have been passed down in their families. They laugh and have fun, too. The best thing to remember is that, “We all make up one human race.”

            Through Fernandez’s vibrant, rhyming, lyrical text and Gonzalez’s colorful, soulful, expressive illustrations, readers celebrate diversity, inclusion and heritage with this uplifting, inspiring picture book. I love rhyme, and the upbeat tempo of the story gives it a positive beat, a welcoming vibe. The storytelling matches strongly with the art of this book, and I’m so glad that I checked this out from my local library.

Will the Pigeon Graduate? (Mar. 4, 2025) by Mo Willems.

<This is part of the Pigeon series.>

Pigeon has the mortarboard hat. It has tassels. He’s overcome obstacles, noticed the little details and taken big steps. But will he graduate? Is Pigeon ready to take the brave plunge? And, asking the big questions here, will there be snacks?

            Despite my fairly regular reading of picture books, this is my first Pigeon series book, and what a delight it is! The story is simple in its illustrations and understandable in its text. There’s no grandiose verbiage, and Pigeon, despite being a pigeon, can be relatable to, say, the Kindergartner approaching Kindergarten graduation wondering about being a big First Grader next school year. This story is infused with wonderment, fun and humor.

"A Twisted Tale Anthology" by Elizabeth Lim et al.

Based on the title alone, it should be no surprise that this anthology features twisted fairy tales involving beloved, well-known Disney characters. Some authors have written more than one story. Some are veteran Twisted Tale authors, while others are new to the Twisted Tale franchise, but are also bestselling authors.
        What if Mulan became the emperor’s advisor? What if Mufasa survived the stampeding wildebeests? What if Prince Naveen arrived in New Orleans just to return to Maldonia right away?

A Twisted Tale Anthology (Oct. 3, 2023) Edited and with Stories by Elizabeth Lim.

   1. Cast Out by Livia Blackburne.

What if Snow White learned magic? Snow White is little more than a scullery maid. Her only friend is Dottie, a sparrow. She hears a voice calling to her, and when she stomps on her fear to investigate it, she’s led to the queen stepmother’s chambers. Here she finds the Magic Mirror, who tells her, “I am truth and honesty, the kernel of everything that is.” The Magic Mirror encourages Snow White to “harness magic to do your bidding.” She’ll have to practice hard and fast with a stepmother who wants to kill her.

   2. A First Mission by Elizabeth Lim.

What if Mulan became the emperor’s advisor? Fa Mulan did return to her family for a visit, and Li Shang did share a meal with her family. Now Mulan has returned to the city to take on the role of an Imperial Councilor of China. Chi Fu and the other advisors, all male, expect her to fail and want her to fail, as a woman. They are tasked with saving prized silkworms from flooding in Hongjing. Mulan and Shang stop to rescue villagers from the flooding with Chi Fu going on to retrieve the silkworms, anticipating that Chi Fu’s report won’t be good. He’s already been insufferable.

   3. Et Voilà by Liz Braswell.

What if Remy had met Colette first? As a woman, Colette has worked many times harder and for less pay than a male counterpart would as a rôtisseur chef at Gusteau’s, and she doesn’t feel fulfilled. She encounters a rat going through the garbage, carefully choosing discarded items, like the end of a pain couronne and a small bit of leftover brie. Remy has discerning tastes. Colette thinks herself crazy, but she takes a chance on Little Chef. Small portions emerge from the Midnight Kitchen. This might be the unexpected path she needs to make her mark. Linguini is around, but he’s a background character.

   4. The Envelope by Jen Calonita.

What if Anastasia had a change of heart? The truth is out. Cinderella and her prince are readying for marriage, as the Tremaines – Anastasia, Drizella and their mother – are shunned by the community for their maltreatment of Cinderella. When Footman Benoit brings them an invitation to the royal wedding, it’s Anastasia that greets him. Benoit understands what it’s like to be shunned and so doesn’t spurn her as others do. Anastasia’s taken on the role of maid, as Drizella and their mother are useless. When she finds a letter penned by their late father, Francis Tremaine, Anastasia feels prompted to visit his hometown of Lille. Benoit accompanies her. She meets Mathilde Boche, who may just have an offer Anastasia can’t refuse.

   5. A New Dawn by Farrah Rochon.

What if Mufasa gave up his throne? Mufasa survived the wildebeest stampede, but his body is far from mended. Simba rules the Pride Lands, but Mufasa struggles to relinquish his rule, though he was quick to forgive Scar. Simba has set patrols around the territory. The Wasaki (Evil Ones) are lions who’ve been cast out of their own prides, and they only seek destruction. Simba anticipates an attack, but Mufasa doesn’t trust Simba’s young instincts. Will Mufasa’s own pride cost them the Pride Lands?

   6. Rattle the Stars by M.K. England.

What if Jim Hawkins joined the pirates? As expected, Jim is aboard the flying ship with Captain Amelia and Dr. Doppler. Silver, the cyborg cook, is amongst them. Morph, Silver’s fist-sized pet blob of space goo, snatches Jim’s boot to get him to play, but it isn’t fun and games when he overhears Silver and crew members Scroop and Birdbrain Mary hatching a nefarious plan. They’re journeying to Treasure Planet, home to Nathaniel Flint’s legendary treasure trove. Jim doesn’t want Amelia and Dr. Doppler to be hurt. So, what does Jim think to do? Become a space pirate.

   7. A Royal Game of Chess by Liz Braswell.

What if history wasn’t quite right about the legend of Robin Hood? There’s a rumor going around that Robin Hood’s been captured, but that isn’t right, because Robin Hood is right there. Yes, I’m indicating Lady Marian. What, you thought Robin Hood was a male fox? *tsk, tsk* Lady Kluck knows the truth and encourages it. There’s an archery competition set by Prince John and Sir Hiss, thinking they’ll capture Hood for sure, or at least “his” Merry Men (like Little John). A kiss from Lady Marian is the prize, so who will be Robin Hood when Marian will clearly be in the limelight?

   8. The Secret Exchange by Elizabeth Lim.

What if Eric met Ariel after she rescued him? Staging one’s own meet-cutes sounds romantic, but when Ariel’s also sneaking around her father, King Triton, who disallows anyone going to the surface, especially his own daughters, it seems less rosy. Ariel has command of her voice, so it’s great fun to discuss the land and the sea, anything that comes to mind, with Eric. Ursula still manages to get wind of Ariel through Flotsam and Jetsam. What will happen when Ursula lets Triton know exactly what Ariel has been up to?

   9. Dust to Dust by Micol Ostow.

What if Tinker Bell was working for Captain Hook? When Tinker Bell abuses her pixie dust magic by using it to magically do her chores, she is reprimanded. In her hotheadedness, she storms away, packing a go-bag, as she doesn’t plan to return to Pixie Hollow anytime soon, if ever. She meets Captain Hook, and he gives her the encouragement she desires. Better yet, he wants her to use her magic. Against Peter Pan. She’s all for watching Peter and deducing the right moment for Hook to make his move. She’s got something of a crush on Peter, and it turns really bratty when Peter brings Wendy and her brothers. When Captain Hook and his crew attack, what will Tinker Bell’s move be?

   10. Gonna Take You There by Farrah Rochon.

What if Naveen had to get home to Maldonia? It’s early, but it’s already been a day for Tiana. Her dreams of opening her own restaurant feel stagnant. She’s saving all she can working two jobs, except now it’s one, because she just quit as Duke’s Café’s sole waitress. Her exit has her overhearing Prince Naveen and his valet, Lawrence, who’s also just quit, and right after bearing news that Naveen must return home for a family emergency. Naveen beseeches Tiana to take him to the ship at Mobile Bay, Alabama. They’ll need a chaperone, so her best friend, Charlotte “Lottie” LaBouff, accompanies them, and John, the LaBouff family driver, is their chauffeur. Their trek to Mobile Bay isn’t a straight course. Tiana knows her dream, but what is Naveen’s?

   11. Fates, Three by Jen Calonita.

What if the triplets visited the Witch? The triplets are now 16, and Merida is doing her own thing. Hamish is the planner/plotter, Hubert is the warrior-in-training who works out a lot, and Harris devotes his time and attention to his studies. Hamish is ever the mischief-maker, but his brothers aren’t as readily excited about plots anymore. He does get them to eat the stolen cranachan, and he has a plan to impress Clan MacGuffin when they come to feast with them. It involves massive butterflies, and it backfires. Desperate not to get sent to their great aunt, the triplets visit the Witch, who’s under her usual guise of a wood-carver. They want a wish that not only keeps them away from the relative, but also prevents them from turning into bears. What will the Witch brew up?

   12. A Dragon in the Snow by Kristina Pérez.

What if Madam Mim and Merlin went to school together? Madam Mim (Morrigan of Gurnard) is the Lyceum of Enchantment’s (on the Hidden Isle) star pupil. Her lilac-colored hair betrays her Shadow Magic, which is why she likes the Wildwood where there’s no one to judge her. Merlin (of Dalriada) is new to the Lyceum, his magic seems to come naturally to him, and he likes Mim. Taliesin is the Chief Mage there, teaching and advising. The Solstice Competition this year will be duels to become the next Royal Mage to Uther Pendragon and train under the inimitable, outgoing Royal Mage Niniame. If they must meet in the final duel, whose magic will prevail?

   13. The Journey Home by Farrah Rochon.

What if Belle had to take her father’s place at the fair? When Maurice is waylaid by an injury, Belle decides it’s on her shoulders to get her father’s latest invention to the fair at Annecy. It chops wood into clean logs. With trusted Philippe, their horse, with her, she is confident she can make it to Annecy and correctly demonstrate Maurice’s invention. Her father tells her to keep to the path, and she means to, until there’s a downed log across the path. She goes around and gets stuck. Gaston and LeFou cross her path. Gaston will help her, but only if she dines with him. Can Belle get herself out of this rut without resorting to Gaston’s muscular manpower?

   14. Call It a Hunch by Jen Calonita.

What if Hercules’s first day as a god didn’t go as planned? Prayers are coming Hercules’s way, but he doesn’t know how to hone in on one person’s voice, nor does he know how to grant their requests. Everyone’s too busy to help him: Zeus, Hera, Athena. Athena’s angry that her statues are being stolen from around the city, and she’s about to bring a terrible storm down on it. Hercules’s girlfriend, the mortal Meg (Megara), has been hired to find the perpetrator. She was hired to find one statue, but now several are missing! She needs this job. After all, it’s not easy finding work after you’ve been trapped in the Underworld. How will Hercules and Meg handle their respective first day?

   15. The Reluctant Prince by Liz Braswell.

What if Bambi didn’t want to be the next Great Prince of the Forest? The Great Prince of the Forest is decided. He’s passing on his mantle to Bambi, his son. Bambi doesn’t want to be the prince. He associates being the prince of the forest with being an aloof deer and an absent father. Bambi’s about to become a father, probably to twins!, and he wants to be present in their lives. He wants to stay by Faline’s side and remain best friends with Thumper and Flower. They will all encourage him to be the prince, but it’s Faline’s words that will resonate the most.

   16. The Rose and the Thorns by Elizabeth Lim.

What if Aurora knew the truth about her curse? For almost 16 years, Princess Aurora has been reminded daily that she must be so careful. Spindles in the kingdom have been outlawed since Maleficent spoke her curse upon the baby princess, but it isn’t only spindles that Aurora must avoid. They won’t even let her use so much as a butter knife. Flora, Fauna and Merryweather look over her well, and Merryweather relents her tight grip, so she can learn some defensive skills (like archery). Prince Phillip has been her betrothed since they were little, but they’ve grown up as best friends. Is Phillip her true love’s kiss? They might well find out when the confrontation with Maleficent comes about.

Concluding Thoughts: Overall, this is a well-spun fantasy anthology that will please many Disney fans. As one of those Disney fans who also loves twisted fairy tales, I enjoyed these short stories. There are elements of things familiar with twists of things new. Some stories take place after the canon and so don’t disrupt the original narratives, while others offer an expanded backstory. All showcase creative, new details. We all know that they do not replace the originals, but instead, give us fresh takes on familiar stories. When it comes to twisted tales, do you enjoy updated spins and perspectives, or do you adamantly prefer the originals?

"Ink Blood Sister Scribe" by Emma Törzs

Ink Blood Sister Scribe (May 30, 2023) by Emma Törzs.

<This is a standalone novel.>

The Kalotay family guards ancient, rare books of magic. The magic in them is typically finite, not to be rechargeable, but they might do anything from spell a person invisible to allow someone to walk through walls or even to pass non-living objects through mirrors. Joanna has been tasked with maintaining the library’s wards after their dad is killed by, unbeknownst to them at the time, a vampire book. Meanwhile, Esther was told at age 18 that she must move every year on November 2^nd to protect her sister, so she’s normally done this every year for a decade. She tried to stay somewhere once and someone attacked. Now she’s decided to stay in Antarctica, but she notices the mirror magic. She has never been able to feel magic and therefore can’t read spells, can’t be affected by spells, and wards do not make her feel horribly ill, but she recognizes the blood on the corners of the mirrors. Is the person who killed Esther’s mother after her? Esther’s path diverges with Nicholas – an anemic Scribe who’s slowly bleeding to death with all the spells he’s written, but also cannot read – and Collins, Nicholas’ bodyguard. Nicholas looks expensive and smells expensive and has a posh English accent to go with his look. Collins is American, but due to his magical staff NDA, he can’t talk about many things, including his own life. Together, they will uncover secrets originating from their own parents and find a world of magic far more sinister than they could’ve imagined.

            I’m blown away by this debut, speculative fiction novel with its immersive-yet-contemporary world-building, rich tone, complex plot of twisty turns, engaging characters and straightforward system of magical books. It is spellbinding and has dark notes, but the story is balanced with threads of hope and humor. This astute and sophisticated fantasy novel lured me in straightaway, wrapping me in extraordinary enchantment. What an incredible, indelible novel!

            P.S. Beware of any vampire books. “A vampire is a fifteenth-century spell that protects activated books. It kicks in as soon as anyone attempts to add their blood to the spell in progress...”--Nicholas to Joanna, Esther and Collins (p.282)

"Last Canto of the Dead" by Daniel José Older

Last Canto of the Dead (May 16, 2023) by Daniel José Older.

<This is the sequel novel in a duology.>

One’s a brilliant pianist who sees a world made of music (Mateo Matisse Medina), the other a fierce force of nature who’s a terrific dancer but a terrible singer (Chela Hidalgo). Both are just kids, chaotic teenagers. But both are also ancient spirits in human form. Galanika the Healer (Mateo). Okanla the Destroyer and San Madrigal the Creator (Chela). They have raised the once-sunken native island of San Madrigal from the Caribbean Sea, but the problems aren’t over. Two creature armies battle for control and survival on San Madrigal (bambarúto are bad enough, but now there are zambarúto?! why?) and in Brooklyn, New York, a tight-knit community is riddled with division. People are being arrested by their own people for made-up reasons and usually for no reason at all. Cops never patrolled the streets of Little Madrigal, but they’re there now. Chela lets her tether to the risen island keep her there. She’s got Odé Kan, an antlered hunter spirit who’s fearless and ferocious. (She’s the hunter of hearts or the first hunter: “Depends on who you ask, or how I’m feeling, really.”) Meanwhile, Mateo returns to Brooklyn, dodging cops while trying to find answers for Chela. His science-minded doctor-parents have returned, too, and that relationship is tense. He avoids his dad, especially, until he can’t. Until his dad calls him, frantic, because his mom’s been arrested. Mateo and Chela may house immortal spirits, but they’re still teens. They’re trying to figure things out even as others around them look to them for leadership and a plan. Will the prophecy keep them apart for good? What will happen to their people, their newly-raised island?

            Musician. Healer. Creator. Destroyer. Older has magic of his own, for he’s able to make writing this complex story look effortless. There’s musicality, racial and ethnic diversity, community division, standout main and supporting characters, a plot continually on the move and great world-building. Older writes Mateo and Chela with authentic teen voices, making it easy for readers to become invested in the characters’ reality and want them to find the solution to save their island and their people and just be a real couple. The sequel book in the thrilling Outlaw Saints duology is a magical bildungsroman with a satisfying conclusion and is a book as strong as its predecessor.

            Book One: Ballad & Dagger

"Ballad & Dagger" by Daniel José Older

Ballad & Dagger (May 3, 2022) by Daniel José Older.

*This is the first novel in a duology.*

Welcome to Brooklyn’s Little Madrigal, a unique diaspora community of pirates, Madrigal Santeros and Sephardic Jews (a.k.a. Sefaradim). It’s where one can find 16-year-old Mateo Matisse Medina, a piano prodigy who lives with his Tía Lucia (living) and Tía Miriam (not living). Mateo’s goal is to catch Maestro Grilo Juan Gerval’s attention, a musical legend and the only one from their community who’s made a name in the world. Meanwhile, Mateo excels at sea espíritu, like a spirit, so being present without really being seen. Until he IS seen. He’s the only one who didn’t know he’s an initiate of Galanika, one of the three original spirits of San Madrigal, an island in the Caribbean which sank when he was a toddler. Galanika is a healer, so suddenly Mateo is a ... healer? Their diaspora is falling apart and has been for awhile, but Mateo hasn’t noticed it until Rabbi Hidalgo’s murder-y daughter, Chela (initiate to Okanla, the destroyer), points it out to him. Someone’s been selected to take Anisette Bisconte’s place on the Cabildo (Little Madrigal’s leadership council), and it’s not Tolo Baracasa, the one expected to be her successor and Chela’s cousin, but Gerval. People are taking sides, and Mateo doesn’t want to choose a side, but he must. His newfound power won’t allow him to sit on the sidelines, invisible. Battle is looming, and the secrets coming to light be deadly, but getting to the other side of the mayhem could hold the key to the dark mystery surrounding San Madrigal. Rumor has it that it can rise again. And Mateo won’t be alone, for he’ll have Chela (newly-realized crush, murder-y bits and all), Tams (his undeniably cool best friend) and Maza (they are unabashedly flirtatious with Tams, who’s a shameless flirt). While Little Madrigal may once have been a refuge for its community or a layover for Mateo (who’s sometimes felt like a tourist in his own neighborhood), who often traveled with his science-minded doctor-parents, it’s about to become a battleground instead. Myths are their reality. Ready?

            A newbie to Older’s writing, I am captivated by this standout YA novel that bubbles over with mystery and mayhem, but also humor and heart. Chaos culminates through division and fear, but courage steps forward, however grudgingly and unsure. It’s a story that hits high notes and low tones, a rich song in book form with humanness and depth. Readers are treated to a community with deep-rooted traditions, a varied history that isn’t without secrets, new and tentative romance and contemporary adventure with magical elements, all while blending in themes of identity, diaspora and colonialism. Older’s writing is there to enjoy as one would any rollercoaster adventure, but it also makes one think: about the pain of identity and diaspora, even within one’s own community, yet also showcases the solidarity and toughness of the same community. The folklore present in this urban fantasy fits well within the Rick Riordan Presents imprint. The previous stories I’ve read within the imprint have been middle-grade titles, but this YA title lends the imprint high school teenager vibes with the world-building that I would expect of any winsome story. I also love the diverse cast, the population of San Madrigal a beautiful blend of Indigenous, West African and European Jewish peoples with the varied skin tones that would go along with that diverse population. It hits the right notes with its lush harmony of adventure, diversity, music and magic, and I will definitely return for the next “Outlaw Saints” novel.

            P.S. I want San Madrigal to be real like I also wish Wakanda, the Wizarding World, Alicante, the Shire and all other worlds and realms were real. Maybe let’s leave out the bambaruto​ creatures, though. Very unpleasant.

            P.P.S. For some reason, each time I read “empire pirates,” I wanted to say “vampire pirates.” But it’s empire. As for the other, someone write that book, stat!

"Hotel Magnifique" by Emily J. Taylor

  

Hotel Magnifique (Apr. 5, 2022) by Emily J. Taylor.

*This appears to be a standalone novel.*

When an ad appears in the paper in bold purple ink for the legendary Hotel Magnifique, 17-year-old Janine (Jani) Lafayette sees it as a way out for her and her 13-year-old sister, Zosa. Jani makes a pittance working in a tannery and is committed to applying for jobs when Hotel Magnifique shows up in an alley in Durc. Alastair, the maître d'hôtel, is mysterious and is known as the most powerful suminaire. The hotel is a safe place for suminaires, those born with magic, to safely perform magnificent magical feats. Jani is convinced that the hotel will hire Zosa on with her singing ability, and they do. Jani; however, is not initially granted a job, but she is very persistent, and Bel, whom she initially thinks is no more than the Magnifique's “vexingly handsome doorman,” has her sign a contract. Jani is a maid, but Bel essentially has her on probation. He sets Béatrice in charge of her, and though she tries to be strict, she also cares for those she oversees. It doesn't take long for Jani to realize the hotel, magical and impressive as it is, is not all fanfare and delight. Jani is soon separated from Zosa, and they are each trapped. For a time, Jani is known as Mol, though she remembers her own name. Jani decides that she must find a way to the infinite ledger so that she can cancel ALL the contracts, but who will help her? Why does she still have all of her memories when no other staff member does? Is it because she supposedly signed a guest contract instead of a staff contract?

            A fantasy novel featuring magic that's steeped in French culture, traveling within a place called Elsewhere with grand world-building, a multitude of diversity, an immersive plot and characters ranging from enigmatic to winsome to cruel to just-trying-to-keep-their-eyes? Yes, please! This debut YA novel is sumptuous and enchanting, but also gritty and determined. “Hotel Magnifique” had me spellbound from the first chapter and the fast pace held onto me through the book's end. It's such a well-crafted novel that has a proportionate balance of dazzle and darkness, spectacle and strife. Greedy maître notwithstanding, I would happily visit the wonderfully imaginative Hotel Magnifique with its whimsical rooms and magic in the air. It's a gem of a story!

"The Excalibur Curse" by Kiersten White

The Excalibur Curse (Dec. 7, 2021) by Kiersten White.

*This is the final novel in a trilogy.*

She thought they were coming to attack Camelot, so Guinevere formed a magical barrier (in a land which bans magic, though Arthur knows of her magic and expects her to use it discreetly) to keep the enemy army out. It turns out the Picts (or northern people), led by King Nechtan, and accompanied by the sorceress Morgana and her son, Mordred, want Guinevere. They had been coming for her. To take her to the Dark Queen. Arthur isn’t near Camelot, having been lured away on a false promise, so Guinevere takes matters into her own hands. Mordred is with her, but whether he’s a help or a hindrance remains to be seen. She’s found a new friend in bold Fina, the younger daughter of Nechtan, and a fierce warrior like her sister, Nectudad. Guinevere is determined to discover the truth of her past by freeing Merlin. Just why is she so afraid of water? What she’ll find out will turn her mind on its axis, so she’ll vow to right the wrong. Even if it means unraveling who she is now, leaving behind Lancelot, Brangien, Dindrane, Lily … Arthur, Mordred. But can she leave them behind?

            This novel wraps up the Camelot Rising trilogy. It is powerful and consuming, but not without passages that are indicative of Guinevere’s youth, despite her angst definitely being existential as opposed to the regular, run-of-the-mill teen. Not only this story, but the entire trilogy, has been a female-led Arthurian adventure, which has been remarkably satisfying. The characters are all wondrously distinct, whether protagonist or antagonist or a gray area in between. Guinevere grapples with passion, duty, love and family. She’s battling her own internal war, even as an outward physical battle is certain to ensue. The conclusion closes the curtain on White’s interpretation of Arthurian legend, and it is satisfying, though a little bittersweet.

            Favorite piece of [heated] conversation:

   Morgana: “Hush, you wretched girl, or I will make all your hair fall out using my magic.”

   Fina: “Try it and I will make all your blood fall out. Using my ax.” (p. 52)

            Book One: The Guinevere Deception

            Book Two: The Camelot Betrayal