The Chainbreakers

Twelve-year-old Violet Moon is next in line to become a Reaper like her father, who captains the Mooney, a magical boat that’s used to rescue souls—or “Passengers”—from the Children of the Shark, ghosts that steal spirits wading in the Tides of the Lost. Their latest mission goes awry when her father is abducted by the Children of the Shark, an unprecedented event which triggers the passing of his duties to Violet. As the new captain of the Mooney, Violet must earn the respect of her crew and peers, who mourn the apparent death of her father. Yet Violet, who doesn’t believe that he’s dead, determines to sail the Mooney to the Depths to find him. But opposition from her first mate and an organization comprising myriad powerful figures called the Chainbreakers Council, as well as brewing unrest among the Reapers and Passengers, complicate matters. Randall (the Pilar Ramirez duology) introduces a large cast of memorable and fiercely protective characters to ferry this swiftly moving tale. Lush worldbuilding depicted via swashbuckling prose encapsulates a propulsive fantasy adventure that entertains while sparking thoughtful discussions about grief, legacy, and revenge. Violet’s father has brown skin. Ages 8–12. (Sept.)