North Is the Night

Set during Sweden’s occupation of Finland in the Middle Ages, this haunting fantasy duology launch from Rath (the Jacksonville Rays series) draws inspiration from Finnish folklore. It centers a pair of young friends, Siiri and Aina, who are drawn into a battle to save their homeland, their gods, and themselves. Kalma, the death goddess, captures several unmarried women, including Aina, and sends them to Tuonela, the kingdom of death. Siiri, refusing to accept both Aina’s fate and the incursion of a malicious Swedish priest into her village, sets off on a perilous trek to seek the guidance of a legendary shaman, Väinämöinen. Siiri hopes he will share his knowledge on how to travel to and rescue Aina from Tuonela and also return home to bring new hope to the Finnish people. Meanwhile, kind Aina faces her own ghastly battle for survival among the cruel deities of Tuonela. Though the tone is bleak, the robust worldbuilding and juicy conflict will draw readers in, and the love between the courageous heroines adds some necessary heart. Rath’s exhilarating tale of faith, bravery, and determination is sure to win her new fans. Agent: Susan Velazquez, Jabberwocky Literary. (Dec.)