Rise

Gr 9 Up–This dark fantasy comes to a conclusion in this sequel to Rule. Sisters Akeylah, Ren, and Zofi are forced to share their secrets with one another, trusting that they will be able to work together to survive the threats made by the blackmailer calling themselves the “true heir.” As their father nears death, exiled Zofi searches for a way to reverse the curse that is killing him, and Akeylah learns that Queen Rozalind, now her lover, has a secret that not only could change the succession but also makes Rozalind a prime suspect as the blackmailer. While all three sisters are forced to take a hard look at themselves and take responsibility for their actions, Akeylah’s character development truly shines in this story as she feeds the strength that has always been there, even when she was abused and neglected before the sisters were revealed as heirs to the crown. The explicit violence and sexual implications in this compelling series make it a better fit for more mature teens.