Title: Unique Take on Magic
Summary:
Leilani and Zebedy overcome the cast differences to become fast friends and become embroiled in a mystery that
Additional Comments:
What I didn’t like:
- Zeb’s voice sounded like a perpetually whiny 10-yr-old child.
- Repeated use of “strains” as an expression. (“strains this” and “oh strains that” … at one pt I believe there was even an “oh, strains, the Strains can be…” expression)
- A few plot points detracted from “kid appeal,” but generally, the story’s suitable for middle grade.
- The characters whine quite a bit.
Neutral:
- The book had a little trouble picking a mood. It started as a “girls from opposite worlds come together as friends tale” then morphed into a “Nancy Drew-like mystery” then turned into a teen romance and finally wrapped up as a feel-good “let’s fix our broken world” story.
- Title’s unique but doesn’t really capture the story.
What I liked:
- Brick. (Can’t say much more without spoilers.)
- The fights between friends work.
- The idea of magic being music is very interesting. The idea could be developed more.
- Convenient yet satisfying end.
- Contains likeable characters and unique world-building.
Conclusion:
It’s definitely a worthwhile read if you enjoy MG fantasy stuff.
