Chantress Alchemy
In this sequel, Lucy, the last chantress (or spell singer) alive, is called upon to help save the kingdom from hunger, bankruptcy, and civil war.  Despite Lucy’s protests that her magic doesn’t work in such a focused way, the king has commanded her to find the crucible needed to turn ordinary objects into gold. But how can Lucy help when her powers have suddenly disappeared?Though some parts of this follow-up to Chantress (2013) could have used more editing, it’s an overall compelling sequel, with plenty of red herrings to keep readers guessing and wondering what’s next in store for the last lady chantress. Grades 8-12. --Candice Mack