A debut filled with imaginative flair, though occasionally disjointed.
In a world where it’s forbidden for a 16-year-old tinker’s assistant like Kellan DuCuivre to wield the metal-carving magic known as makecraft, Kellan risks it all to help her mentor. A Black girl and the descendant of traitors to Nanseau, Kellan holds one of the lowest positions in Riz’s society. However, after catching the eye of Madame Minora Mesny—a courtier and Master Engineer—her life takes a drastic turn. By becoming Mesny’s apprentice, Kellan breaks longstanding laws and traditions that keep people of her status from rising above their station. Orphaned, she dreams of finding a cure for her ill guardian, Edgar, but her journey to success is shadowed by a growing darkness that causes people to vanish or suffer even worse fates. To succeed, Kellan must confront the dangers of high society and the mysterious threat looming over the city, all while uncovering the trauma woven into her life. The worldbuilding is immersive, rich with history and a steampunk-inspired version of New Orleans, where the city’s quarters and bayous add depth to her journey. However, while the characters are unique, their interactions lack cohesion, with some friendships feeling strained.
A debut with fantastic creativity, albeit lacking in unity. (map) (Fantasy. 13-18)
