Hunters of the Lost City

The gates of Vittoria, purportedly the last town in the world following the conclusion of a deadly war 50 years prior, must never be opened after dark. The walls keep out predatory Ferox, animal-like weapons made of “all manner of materials, held together and animated by magic.” The only people allowed beyond the gates after dark are Hunters, who protect Vittoria from Ferox. When cued-white 12-year-old Octavia, who longs to be a Hunter like her retired mother and late sister, sneaks out to train, she meets brown-skinned, black-haired Sima. She claims to hail from the seaside town of Iberne, a place that shouldn’t exist, and Octavia learns, contrary to what she’s been taught, that the world beyond the gates has flourished. After sneaking Sima into Vittoria, she’s immediately under suspicion for being an outsider and taken prisoner. Octavia helps Sima escape and, determined to see the world for herself, embarks on a treacherous journey beyond the walls. Though the climax fumbles, Wallace’s (City of Islands) fast-paced narrative is intense. Richly detailed magical lore, gripping action, and frightening fantastical creatures are grounded by well-rounded characters and the girls’ blossoming friendship. Ages 10–up. Agent: Adriann Ranta Zurhellen, Folio Literary. (Apr.)