Heart of Thorns

In debut author Barton’s evocative, epic ode to feminism, magic, and the wonder of fairy tales, 17-year-old Mia is a motherless young woman living under the oppressive regime of the river kingdom (one of four lands whose creation myths differ). Betrothed against her will to Prince Quin, science-minded Mia plots her escape. Her one wish is to be a Huntress, joining the small elite circle of those who hunt Gwyrach (the kingdom’s name for women who practice magic), particularly since her mother was killed by a Gwyrach. Mia’s perspective is shattered and reformed in the span of a very short time as she and Quin flee for their lives after an assassination attempt at the wedding. Aided by her mother’s journal, she and the prince make their way to a place only whispered about, Refúj, where the answers to all of Mia’s questions lie. A gripping, complex narrative balances emotion and logic in this trilogy opener, while vividly crafted characters and cinematic details create a world readers will want to get lost in. Ages 13–up. [em](July) [/em]