Shadow and tide

Gr 9 Up--The world of the "Compass and Blade" trilogy expands in this second volume, as Mira continues to search for answers about her siren heritage, and monster hunter Brielle, is introduced. Vivid descriptions and atmospheric prose set the scene, underscoring the comparatively one-dimensional character motivations for protagonist Mira and other characters, especially Brielle who, being assigned to hunt Mira, begins to question her work hunting monsters and extracting their blood for witches to use in spells. With a wider scope, this story situates Mira in the larger political climate beyond her beloved isle of Rosevear, allowing her to learn more about the powers at play and pursue vengeance against those who continue to threaten everything the Fortunate Isles hold dear. VERDICT With new enemies, old allies, and a cliffhanger ending, the stage is set for an explosive finale.

Mira learns more about her existence within a complicated web of political intrigue in this sequel to 2024'sCompass and Blade. Mira Boscawen is reeling from a painful betrayal and learning about her siren lineage when the rulers known as the watch set her village on the island of Rosevear on fire and demand that she be delivered to them. The enigmatic and infuriating Lord Elijah Tresillian arrives, ready to collect on the bargain that he and Mira previously made. After helping the village, the pair travel to Ennor, where they plan to deal with Capt. Renshaw and the watch, who have formed an alliance to take control of the Fortunate Isles. Mira and Elijah continue to grapple with their identities and the powers they don't understand, all the while growing closer to one another. Meanwhile, Brielle, a monster hunter who tracks creatures and extracts their blood for spells, is assigned by her coven to hunt Mira. As Brielle learns more about Mira, she starts to question what's being asked of her, especially when her own and Mira's fates ultimately collide. Mira, at great cost, gains insight into herself while she tries to save Rosevear. Brielle's perspective adds a much-needed view into a messy political system, and Mira's and Elijah's motives are explored more fully in this gratifying sequel, which satisfyingly addresses underdeveloped areas of the plot and characterization. Main characters are cued white. A deeper exploration of a compelling fantasy world. (map)(Fantasy. 14-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.