Kelcie Murphy and the Race for the Reaper's Key

August 1, 2024
Freed at last, evil King Balor makes his move against the long-divided Lands of Summer and Winter in this climactic Celtic-inspired series closer. Readers may well wonder how the two fiannas, or bands of student warriors--led by light-skinned Kelcie on the Summer side and by "ruddy brown" Lexis on Winter's--are ever going to overcome Balor. As fiendishly powerful and clever as he is, Balor spends most of this story forcing or tricking them into doing his bidding while sending monsters out on successful diversionary attacks. Still, the young folk have a hard-won ability to work together as well as the advantage of being on the side of right. And so, along with rescuing one another from his onslaughts of kelpies, spider-trow, fire foxes, bane bats, and other terrors, they're able at last to find a way to close the Abyss separating the Lands and bring the Never-Ending War to a decisive close. Despite plenty of fighting, Kelcie suffers few personally meaningful losses. By the end, Kelcie, who's at the head of a sprawling fantasy cast of diverse species, not only renews relationships with both of her immortal parents but at last exchanges a sweet kiss with her royal anam cara ("soul friend"), Niall, wrapping events up in a way that will satisfy returning fans. A tidy resolution for a derivative but adventuresome trilogy. (glossary)(Fantasy. 9-12)

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December 1, 2024

Gr 5 Up-Imagine being banished from your beloved school and then facing the threat of being removed from your family. Kelcie Murphy and her band of warriors are in a race to save the Lands of Summer and help bring an end to the Never Ending War. Perfecting one's underdeveloped magic skills while training to be a spy is a challenge under the best of circumstances, but when time is of the essence, the added pressure can be intense. Characters with elemental powers like telekinesis, sparking, and the ability to drop air ropes will engage readers looking for sorcery and adventure. The third in the "The Academy for the Unbreakable Arts" series, this title is a great choice for students who enjoy otherworldly dimensions filled with immortal creatures, unbeatable swords, mysterious portals, and traveling eyes. A helpful glossary of terms is included to guide readers through the unfamiliar Celtic terms and concepts. VERDICT If you have avid fantasy readers who love a challenge or were fans of the first two books, add to your collection.

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