Carving Shadows into Gold

Gr 9 Up–In this second installment, Briarlock gets left behind as the characters deal with shattered worldviews, strained relationships, and two countries on the edge of war. Just as Tycho and Jax finally come together, attacks by the magical scravers force Tycho to return to Syhl Shallow. However, King Grey is no longer the close confidant Tycho once revered, and repairing their friendship isn’t exactly a top priority. Meanwhile, Jax is alone in Emberfall, struggling to navigate a country whose language he doesn’t speak, whose citizens distrust him, and whose prince he despises. Callyn, on the other hand, is settling into the Crystal Palace with Queen Lia Mara, exploring her newfound magic in secret. But when the Queen’s vicious sister takes an interest in her and Lord Alek reappears, her place and her principles are put to the test. Tensions build to critical levels between characters and countries in this plot-driven continuation. Themes of loyalty, trauma, and forgiveness are deeply explored as they examine the blurred lines between right and wrong. As each character comes to terms with the complexity of trauma response, compassion and understanding soothe their festering hatred and resentment. Kemmerer’s signature cliffhanger ending will leave readers clamoring for the final installment.