Quirky coming of age YA short novel featuring 19 sock puppets named Marcel, treasure hunts, family secrets, and refreshingly good dialogue. It’s hard to capture a teen voice and Brown does a marvelous job with Dree who is grieving the death of her dad and the possibilities he represented. Teens looking for something different will really enjoy this, and having it take place in Edmonton add to the interest.
This is the 5th mystery translated from French that features Commissaire Jean-Baptiste Adamsberg, and my favorite so far. Like any good mystery series, the characters develop more complexity as the novels progress. Adamsberg is quite a singular policeman, and the French history that infused the series keeps the plot moving along nicely.
Steampunked detective story with anthropomorphic animals in a history where France is the major world power. Talbot was inspired by the 19th century illustrator Gerald, and the visuals match a dynamic story with delight. Beautiful to own.
Super fighter Katsa must learn to control her Grace of killing to defeat a king with a terrible power. This is a great mix of action and intrigue with strong character development. Though this is YA, adults will love it too. The prequel Fire is just as good.