About this time last year, I wrote this post and then forgot to share it with you. I decided to share it now! You can think of it as a kind of bookish time capsule — enjoy!
What’s your favorite thing about summer? For me, it’s the chance to read some of the books I was looking forward to but didn’t have time for during the academic year. This summer I’ve read so many that I couldn’t choose just one to share with you. That’s why I loved the simplicity of this post by Lily Yu.1 It gave me the idea to write about three books at once — the one I read last, the one I’m reading right now, and one I hope to start next. Here goes!
LAST
I last read Wandering by Loren G. Warnemuende.2 The second book in the Daughter of Arden trilogy,3 it continues the story of Princess Maleen and her adoptive mother Marietta. The two of them emerge from the tower that sheltered them during the war, only to find their castle in ruins and their kingdom occupied by the enemy. As heir to the throne, it is Maleen’s responsibility to right what is wrong, but her way is barred by rivers, slave traders, Dragon Fever, and more. Enemies pose as friends, witches claim to be prophets, and even Maleen must hide her identity. When all is changed and her life is in danger, how can she know who to trust?
As rich and nourishing as the previous book, with an ending that moved me to tears, Wandering left me deeply satisfied. But Maleen’s task is far from complete, and there are many questions still unanswered. I’m looking forward to their final resolution in the next book, coming November 2023!
Things I liked about this story:
- The depth of each person and place.
- The theme of truth and lies.
- How Maleen keeps faith, even in doubt and dryness.
NOW
While waiting for November, I started Solimar: The Sword of the Monarchs by Pam Muñoz Ryan. Lighter than Wandering and suitable for readers of all ages, I’m finding it hard to put down!
Once upon a time, when a rich and glorious Mexico stretched from the isthmus of the middle Americas to the northern redwood forests, there lived the Princess Solimar. For as long as she can remember, she has gone to the sacred oyamel forest to greet the butterflies when they stop to rest during their migration. But this year, the year of her quinceañera, something unusual happens. Standing in the midst of their kaleidoscopic dance, Solimar makes a solemn promise to protect them. The result is an enchanted rebozo, a new responsibility, and the inconvenient gift of foresight. How long can she hide this gift, and will she be able to keep her promise to the monarchs?
Things I like so far:
- Ryan’s colorful voice, which is perfect for the vibrant culture.
- Solimar’s feathered companion, Lázaro.
- The action, suspense, and courage in spite of uncertainty.
NEXT
One book that I’m eager to start is Markmaker by Mary Jessica Woods.4 I inherited a love of science fiction from my dad, although much of this genre is secular and materialist. So I was excited when I found this story, which was written from a Christian worldview!
The back of the book says, “For the Noxxiin people, tattoos define identity: they commemorate birth, ancestry, accomplishments — even crimes. As a tattoo artist living on an ancient generation ship, Mariikel Serix has sworn to record the truth. So when he becomes an unwilling accomplice in the banishment of an innocent man, he is horrified that he has broken his oath — and his eyes are opened to the misery of the Underbelly, the realm of the outcasts.
“Despite the risk to himself, the young markmaker begins secretly helping the ship’s exiles. But more trouble is brewing . . . As Mariikel ventures deeper into a maze of political strife and ancient clan secrets, he realizes that his pursuit of justice may not only cost his reputation — it may cost him his life.”
Things that interest me about this book:
- The culture and worldbuilding.
- The political intrigue.
- The themes of justice and sacrifice.
What have you been reading lately? What do you want to read next? I’d love to hear your recommendations!
Notes:
1. Lily Yu is a reader and writer who blogs at Books by Starlight. In the post mentioned above, she participated in Shivakiiify’s “Book Tag | Last, Now Next.” I’m not technically participating in the tag since my post is a bit different, but I’m grateful for the inspiration.
2. The link above is for the Kindle edition (the most affordable option for Canadians), but physical copies are available from Bandersnatch Books and Amazon.com.
3. The Daughter of Arden Trilogy is a high fantasy retelling of the Grimms’ fairy tale “Maid Maleen.” You can read my thoughts on the first book here.
4. Since writing this post I’ve finished Markmaker! Mariikel is a loveable introvert who is anxious, honourable, and compassionate all at once. I especially liked the phenomenal worldbuilding and the alien culture, which feels both sophisticated and primal, rich in lore and ceremony. I’m a fairly sensitive reader and had a hard time with the physical violence and emotional anguish in this story, but I’m glad I read it!
Image source: Goodreads.com
The Glass Hill 