Ember and Ash

Cultural conflicts, familial obligations, and deadly ancient magic turn lives upside down in this intriguing fantasy from YA author Freeman (the Castings Trilogy). The people of the Eleven Domains have argued over land for decades, with many shunning the Travelers who have a magical bond with elemental powers. After Martine, a Traveler, offends the Fire god, he claims her daughter Ember, denying their domain any fires for cooking or warmth until Ember agrees to be his lover. To break Fire's spell, Ember and her cousin Ash must travel far north to Fire Mountain, in the Ice King's domain, and bring back some elemental fire to rekindle the flames. Their passage stirs up other elemental forces as it challenges tradition. Freeman's unique setting and compelling characters make for a highly entertaining tale. (May)