Seven Black Diamonds

Half human, half fae Lilywhite Abernathy is the daughter of one of the most powerful crime lords in the world, and although Lily has grown up sheltered, she is more than able to take care of herself. Having any fae blood means automatic imprisonment outside of the Hidden Lands, so her father has always taken pains to hide her heritage. After Lily’s 17th birthday, she is sent to the exclusive St. Columba’s school, where she finds out that she is the final member of the Black Diamonds—a sleeper cell of seven, each with different magical “affinities”—put in place by the Queen of Blood and Rage to rid the world of the humans who have destroyed it and slaughtered their people. Marr spends a great deal of time setting up the premise, yet the larger world, irreparably ravaged by human folly, is only lightly sketched. While fans of Marr’s Wicked Lovely books will appreciate her melding of ancient faerie lore with complex contemporary characters, those expecting exciting action scenes may be disappointed, and revelations about Lily hold few surprises. Ages 13–up. Agent: Merrilee Heifetz, Writers House. (Mar.)